Why Would a Person Write Fiction?
Fiction writing is an incredibly diverse and compelling pursuit, with myriad reasons behind it. From the practical to the deeply personal and philosophical, there are countless motivations that inspire individuals to pen their thoughts, dreams, and stories. Here, we explore the various reasons why someone would choose to write fiction, touching on its practical, personal, and philosophical dimensions.
Practical Reasons to Write Fiction
Many storytellers, like myself, find that writing provides a sustenance that goes beyond the mere material realm. As a writer who makes a living by crafting tales, while not a wealthy one, the income allows me to support myself and cover my basic needs. The freedom that comes with writing, whether as a freelancer or a full-time author, is unparalleled. I’ve considered other professions, such as prepress design, computer consulting, or information security, each with a potential for greater financial reward. However, the joy derived from writing outweighs the desire for more money. There are times when the dream of writing becomes more important than the reality.
Personal Reasons to Write Fiction
Writing is a form of co-creation for me. Regularly collaborating with others, such as my partner Eunice, has produced a profound sense of intimacy and shared vision. Our joint works cover a wide range of genres from cyberpunk and post-scarcity science fiction to avant-garde literature. Every story we create together brings a level of uniqueness and depth that is incomparable. It's a shared journey where the end product is a reflection of the combined efforts and perspectives of all involved.
Another personal motivation stems from the act of escapism. Writing helps me cope with life's stressors, offering a therapeutic outlet. Recently, my world has been affected by personal challenges, including my mother's cancer diagnosis. While many find solace in activities like drugs, sex, or video games, writing provides a mental escape from reality. It is my way of dealing with the burdens of daily life, and it has become a vital source of joy and creativity for me.
Moreover, I am compelled to write because I believe it is a fundamental right and duty of an individual to express their innermost thoughts and stories. Stories are bound to be told, and when a story finds a receptive mind, it is relentless in its desire to be shared. It often feels like I don't have a choice but to write, as the stories outside my mind pursue me with urgency. This compulsion to share has led me to explore various themes and scenarios, recognizing the unique insights that only imagination can provide.
Philosophical Reasons to Write Fiction
Fiction is more than just a form of entertainment; it serves as a mirror to humanity and a platform to explore the complexities of human nature. Through our writings, my partner Eunice and I delve into thought-provoking questions that challenge societal norms and provoke deep reflection. For example, we have explored how a society with no legal or policing structures could function, how a society might invert modern Western attitudes toward sex and violence, and the implications of a world where radical longevity is the norm. These inquiries are not merely whimsical; they push the boundaries of accepted knowledge and encourage us to question our own beliefs.
By exploring these scenarios, we aim to understand the human condition from different perspectives and to imagine alternative realities. These stories are not just fiction; they are windows into the future, allowing us to anticipate and prepare for the possibilities that lie ahead. The process of writing, in this sense, becomes a philosophical endeavor, where we grapple with existential questions and ethical quandaries in a world that is constantly evolving.
In conclusion, writing fiction is a multifaceted endeavor that serves practical, personal, and philosophical purposes. It provides a means of survival, a way to connect with others, an escape from reality, and a vehicle for exploring the complexities of the human experience. Whether for personal gain, to share joy, or to probe the depths of the human psyche, the act of writing fiction touches the very essence of what it means to be human.