Why Writers Are Readers First
In the heart of every writer beats the soul of an avid reader.
I have yet to encounter a writer who isn't also a passionate reader. In our conversations, the books we've read often precede the ones we've authored. Every writer's journey always begins with the magical act of reading, where each page turned is a step into a world far removed from our own. This sentiment isn't merely an old saying; it's a profound truth that forms the foundation of storytelling and creative expression. The joy of reading, of immersing oneself in the narratives crafted by others, is where the seed of writing takes root.
The Joy of Reading: A Gateway to Other Worlds
Reading has always been my escape, a portal to realms that exist beyond the visible. It's where I've found solace from the harshness of reality, a place where anything is possible, and where heroes triumph against all odds. Through the pages of a book, I've battled dragons, sailed across uncharted waters, and discovered love in the most unexpected places. Each story transported me, allowing me to live a thousand lives, each one contributing to the fabric of my imagination.
This joy of reading and being wholly absorbed into another world fuels the desire to write. It's the realization that words have the power to create universes, evoke emotions, and connect with others on a deep level. As readers, we learn not just about the stories themselves, but about the craft of storytelling. We see what works and what doesn't, what moves us, and what leaves us wanting more.
Writing: Crafting Your Own Universe
In writing, as in reading, we find ourselves transported to another world, away from the ugliness of reality, into a realm where anything is possible. And it is in this space that we truly come alive.
When I transitioned from reader to writer, I carried with me the worlds I had visited, the characters I had met, and the emotions I had felt. Writing became the means through which I could craft my own universe, create my own characters, and tell my own stories. As an author specializing in contemporary romance, focusing on young women navigating the intricacies of life post-university, I invariably find reflections of myself within the lives of my protagonists—their dreams, their ambitions, and even their fluctuating moods. Writing about these characters became a cathartic process, allowing me to channel my innermost thoughts, aspirations, my own dreams, and even my fears into something tangible.
Creating protagonists and main characters allowed me to explore parts of myself and my hidden desires. In every hero, there's a piece of the writer, a reflection of their ideals, struggles, and aspirations. These characters become vehicles for us to live out scenarios we can only dream of, to confront our demons, and to discover our true selves. They encapsulate the "what ifs" and the paths not taken, offering a chance to explore alternative decisions and actions that might have been pursued in youth or can still be embraced. Through these protagonists, I engage in a continuous dialogue with myself, prompting introspection, fostering growth, and facilitating a deeper understanding of who I am, both as a writer and an individual.
Reflections of Hidden Desires
Writing, in its purest form, is an act of revelation. It unveils our deepest yearnings and our most closely guarded secrets. We seek to understand ourselves and the world around us through our stories. Our protagonists embark on journeys that, while fantastical, mirror our own quest for meaning and fulfillment. They embody our desires to be braver, kinder, and more resilient.
In crafting these narratives, we are not just telling stories but constructing mirrors that reflect our innermost selves. It's a process of discovery, where each word penned brings us closer to understanding who we are and who we wish to be.
The Inextricable Link Between Reading and Writing
The connection between reading and writing is undeniable. One cannot exist without the other. Reading feeds our soul as a writer, providing inspiration, teaching the nuances of language, and offering a glimpse into the infinite possibilities of storytelling. It is in the act of reading that we find the courage to write, to share our own stories with the world.
As writers, we owe much to our first love: reading. It is what shapes us, what drives us, and ultimately, what allows us to dream. So, to all the writers out there, never forget the joy of reading, for it is the wellspring from which your writing flows. Embrace it, cherish it, and let it guide you as you create your own worlds, your own you, through the characters that speak to the heart of who you are.
Justine Castellon is a brand strategist with an innate ability to weave compelling narratives. She seamlessly blends her professional insight with her passion for literature. She writes about her journey as writer in between peotry and short stories. She is the author of two novels –– Four Seasons and The Last Snowfall.
(Twitter/X @justcastellon)
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