Today I just finished reading a great classic, the Count of Monte Cristo. As I closed the last page I was left with a hint of sadness that it was all over. I felt myself transported to so many places within the book, and got a good laugh at the author breaking the fourth wall. But alas, I spoke of this in my other blog.
What I gained was a perspective about writing. Reading left me with questions.
Why do we write? What inspires those words we are using right now? Why did we choose this theme, this type of development? What are we trying to say? What is the best voice to tell this story in? How can these words effect us? Could we transport readers such as how this author did? Can we make a reader forget his or her self and put aside their thoughts to reckon with new ones? Can we create an argument in a reader's mind that will draw him or her to question where they stand? To look at new ideas, revelations, input? Can we stir change?
In my Pearls blog, I mentioned that I don't believe in things remaining static. I apply that to books also. I feel the books should resonate, tone, shape, modify, reach, develop, grow. I would love for my books to touch readers in a way they can never forget them. Not by comic relief, although that is fun, not by eloquent speech, although a good command of the language would be nice. No, it is not the language, the tone, or any type of mechanics, although they play an important part.
It is the memory.
What do you see when you open a book? Do you see lines of words on a page, or do you visualize places and people, so much so that you can feel the beating of the characters hearts?
Oh to have such command of a pen. A most worthy challenge for any writer.
That is my challenge to you, and of course to myself. To write to reach, to engage, to create, act, think.
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