To Write, Perchance, to Create

If you are like me, fair reader, you too have felt misgivings when placing pen to pad or setting your fingers alight over the keyboard for fear of mishaps when translating your inner voice to the written word. Although apprehension is common, it is unnecessary. Writing is a process. Do not abandon the quest for fear of starting the journey.

Consider the word “novel.” Most know the word as denoting a genre. It comes from the French word “nouvelle,” meaning “new.” When the novel first came into popularity, it was a new form. The novel is not nearly so new anymore, yet it still excites. Every novel, although maybe not a "novel" idea or form anymore, is new to you. Luxuriate in this fact. Always remember to look at your works in progress with new eyes.

Perhaps you write only shorter works, or “merely” academic papers. All forms can be art forms. You, the author, control the fate of the work. Stuck on an essay? The word “essay” derives from the verb “essayer” which translates to “try.” Every essay is truly an attempt. You don’t have to get it right the first, second, or even third time. Just keep trying. 

Every author has, at one time or another, hit writer’s block or has despaired about their writing. The difference between published authors and unpublished authors is that those who were published never stopped trying. The old adage “You miss 100% of the shots you don’t take” holds true, most especially concerning writing. You never know what you might create until you try. It may be a journey to discovery. 

The world awaits. Bring forth your words.