The Difficulties of Writing & Awe of the Ones who Overcome Them

Who knew writing a paper could create such turmoil in my mind?

And how, may I ask, do writers do it?

Writing takes such grit. Even when it's taken as slow as molasses, tackled gently and deliberately, it's tough to produce words in the desired way. To get your point across, to do it well, to hold your purpose and lay it out subtly. To have good dialogue or to let transitions slide down the throat like warm ginger tea. To create a delicious plot. To have words become so alive that the reader can't help but feel in response. To make a lasting imprint. To let your voice leak through. To weave with art, wield with power, mold with grace. These words are slithery and it takes a master to grab them in time, place them where they belong.

And there's editing. Cutting, hacking, changing. Learning to let go of the things you've become attached to, but just aren't good enough. To listen to critique, catch the mistakes, react with humility.

And some people have deadlines hanging over their heads. Or they can't get published at all. Or readers are waiting impatiently. Or they don't have time to release the words pent up inside.

But they make time. Fulfill expectations. Leave a message. Capture hearts. Reach out and make those words.

Somehow.
Somehow, they manage to write. And write well.


And my jaw is ajar. I tip my hat to those who do what I cannot.