How and when do you know the writing you are doing is good, worthwhile and important?
I have been thinking about this a lot here at the Sharjah Book Fair. I have been incredibly inspired by listening to the writers here, many of who have had to overcome so much in order to be able to write and be published. I think our freedom in Australia leads more to apathy than action. Writing is seen as an indulgence than a political act.
I often let things get in the way of writing. I don’t give it the time I want to, and I allow myself to be sidetracked. Because the writing I do is not ‘serious’ or high-lit, I don’t approach it with a seriousness. I regret that, but I also sometimes become paralysed with insecurity. (Is what I have to say important? Is it good? I am great at my job, perhaps that is where I should be focussing my attention? Would anybody care if I didn’t write?)
I don’t know if there is a way to overcome it. (Do you?) Maybe I need to remind myself more of this:Writing is a powerful tool. Make time for it and make your voice heard.
Do you ever feel like you are on the right path, or is insecurity an unavoidable part of a writer’s life?
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