Everyone has their own reasons for wanting to write a novel.
And after years of talking to, working with, and interviewing authors, I have heard just about every reason under the sun.
Some are full-time writers, others are hobbyists who have been at it for years, and still others are just dabbling.
But no matter what a writer’s level of commitment to the craft, these reasons for writing are so deep-seated, they’re a part of that writer’s very identity.
Here are 4 of the best:
1. It’s just plain fun. You know what’s fun about writing a novel? You can do anything you want with the story. Create rich settings with just the stroke of the pen, invent characters from scratch, dream up all sorts of crazy scenarios and situations and just let your characters deal with them.
All of these elements combine to take readers on a journey as they breathlessly turn the pages of the book you wrote. And we all love to see readers enjoying our stories.
2. It’s a way of life. You might be familiar with the writer’s life already. For many of us, especially those of us who have been doing this for a long time, it’s baked right in to our daily routine. Wake up, pour a cup of coffee, and let your imagination percolate over the rising steam from the mug.
There’s also something about being able to get so much done at your kitchen table, in your slippers, and practically doing a full day’s “work” before the kids are even up.
3. Sharing is caring. I don’t know about you, but I don’t want my work to exist in a bubble. One of the greatest joys of producing creative work is sharing it with others, and knowing that it has entertained them, made them think, or just brightened their day a little.
A published novel is a neat, pre-packaged way of spreading that gospel, and it’s a part of your being—in physical form—that’s going to always be out there.
4. The sense of achievement. Okay, writing a great story is not just about adding value to other people’s lives. I think we can all admit there’s a little pride and self-fulfillment involved in having achieved something this big, no?
Whether or not you feel the ego boost that goes along with becoming a published author, others will see you in a different light. Maybe it’s that extra spring in your step or gleam in your eye. Who knows—but it’s a new you, for sure!
So how long does it take to write a novel, anyway? In the 365-Day Indie Author Challenge, we’re going from 0 to published book over the next 12 months. We’ll be starting the adventure next week, so join us, and let’s do this!!
What other reasons do you have for writing? I invite you to share with us in the comments below.
I’m Timothy Pike, copy editor and self-publishing coach, and I’ve been in the book business since 2014. I created the 365-Day Indie Author Challenge to help authors write and publish excellent books in just one year.