Killer Questions - Why We Write Rather Than Doing Something Else

Killer Questions – Why We Write Rather Than Doing Something Else

K.M. Rockwood: My life feels empty if I don’t have at least one story in progress. And there’s no thrill like seeing you work in print and being shared with others.

Heather Weidner: Writing was always an outlet where I got to be as creative as I wanted. 

Martha Reed: That’s easy. It’s the feeling of pure joy I get whenever a story reveals itself and knits together. That’s when I hunch over my keyboard, evilly giggle, and think: “Oh, that’s good.” Plus, I never look at my writing as a job (although I work at it daily like it is one).

Connie Berry: Well, since I retired from my other job, I can't go back even if I wanted to. But writing isn't a job; it's a life. I love the saying, "You're not a writer because you write. You write because you're a writer." So true.

Grace Topping: I spent my daytime job as a writer-editor, so I've been writing nearly my whole life. Some people after that probably wouldn't want to write another thing. But since I had written about some pretty boring technical things, I liked the challenge of using my imagination and trying my hand at fiction. The first thing I had to do was overcome the feeling of being self-conscious that people would think I was my main character. 

Paula G. Benson: I get to create a world I understand, a place that’s familiar and comforting. My characters may have struggles, but they can find their way through to resolution.

James M. Jackson: Two things, both of which are selfish. I very much enjoy people telling me they like reading my stories, and I am continually learning new things. If either of those stopped happening, I'd stop writing.

Sarah Burr: My characters and my readers. I cherish the time I spend with my characters and am passionate about sharing stories with people—many of whom I've never met (or hadn't met before writing). Connecting with those who truly appreciate the worlds I create is incredibly rewarding.

Annette Dashofy: Because it’s really the only job I feel qualified to hold.

Kait Carson: It’s where I feel most at home. 

Lori Roberts Herbst: Taming the creative urge, I suppose. That or attempting to quiet all the voices chattering in my head.

Margaret Hamilton: To quote my mother: "When are you going to stop wasting time and do something with your writing?" Writing for me is like breathing.

Korina Moss: It gives me purpose. And I adore the readers and fellow authors I’ve met and the friends I’ve made in the mystery writing community.

Debra H. Goldstein: Because it brings me joy.

Nancy Eady: I can't seem to NOT write, no matter how hard I try to completely let it go.

Mary Dutta: I keep coming back because I have more stories to tell.

Molly MacRae: I love everything about stories and books.

Shari Randall: At this point in my life, I can't imagine not writing.