Why do you write?

Why do you write? Has anyone ever asked you this question? If this was directed at me, well, I have my answers ready.

I always liked to write. Put me in front of a group of people and ask me to speak, and I am all at a loss for words. But, give me a pen and paper or its modern version, the computer, or a tablet and ask me to type out something and watch the words flow.

I have no illusions about my writing skills. They are average, but that does not stop me. I love to write. I have tried my hand at free verse, I am working on a novelette and post regularly on my blog. Furthermore, I do all this in my leisure time. Again, back to the same question. Why do I write?

I believe writing is fueled by our desire to communicate. To share our views, ideas, or opinions with the rest of the world. The rest of the world may or may not read our blog, but that is ok. Once published, our idea or viewpoint is out in the public realm. Available for anyone interested and with the time to read it. A digital footprint of our thought that will remain there for all time to come. It can be removed, but that is another story.

The current wave of social media apps where the written message is brief and highly visual is a different version of this desire to communicate. In our mind, we are the superstars. Check out threads on Facebook or YouTube. Folks from all over the world dishing out details of their life. Some threads are informative, some absurd, and a lot are plain and simple trash. Yet, that is also a way of communication.

AI is the new kid on the block. Use it to create well scripted articles or graphics that can fool people and impress people with ‘your skills’. AI has made survival difficult for those who are genuinely creative. The next generation of AI will be able to create more realistic paintings, videos or compose music which may be flawless.

That being said, I guess the human mind and creativity will survive with its ability to think out of the box. AI is, after all, learning what we teach it and replicating it. It is the imperfection in us humans that makes us great or better. If every sun rise were the same, it would be boring. It is days when the clouds cover the sky that make you admire the beauty of a clear sky sunrise.

Here’s to all the writers and bloggers of the world. Type on and keep writing.