Writers As Story Tellers

Writing well is a never-ending challenge because it is a form of communication that involves others. Even though this act may be one of isolation in the sense a singular person sits down in front of a key board or a notepad and begins writing down thoughts, the purpose of it is one of inclusion. It is an act designed to bring attention to one's self. Writing any of us does is a way of saying, "These are my thoughts. This is my imagination.  Check it out." I do not believe any one who says they write for themselves. At best, that is only true in part. Writing is also for others. People write for others to see what they have done.

Given that, this is why it becomes important for each of us to strive to make our acts of writing be as good as possible. If we are going to share ourselves, then we need to do so in a way that reflects favorably on our ability to enlighten, inform and even entertain. It is not unlike having company. We invite others into our homes. As an invitation, writing is not all that different. As a host or hostess, we strive to be cordial and warm. I see little difference between that and being a writer - no matter the subject matter or theme of what we have penned. Writing is a form of hosting. It is an act of connecting with others.

The best writers are the best story tellers. Even those who write non-fiction, such as journalists and, yes, public relations practitioners, are story tellers. The most effective ones do the best job of presendting facts in a way that captivates and stimulates. Further, the best of these writers push the emotional buttons of their readers in a way that makes their work enjoyable and memorable. This, of course, is far from easy. As one who never stops trying to be that kind of writer, I have more than a good sense of its difficulty. Nevertheless, it is a brass ring that writers of all caliber should never stop reaching for.