An informal, narrative-process essay required in academia.
Sabiniana Balagtas Baliba
George Garneau, Ph.D.
23 January 2013
Write What Matters
Do you know “who are you writing for?” Because according to William Zinsser, for every writer, “Who am I writing for,” is such a “fundamental question,” that should have an equally “fundamental answer.” Honestly, before reading Zinsser’s On Writing Well, I thought, we, writers should just think of our readers to come up with a meaningful writing. But on Chapter 5, he wrote, “There is no such audience. . .” Now don’t be alarmed; Don’t take it literal! Nor react to “who” instead of “whom.” Of course, he didn’t mean that our readers don’t exist neither, no one would read our writings. Rather, just as every one is different from one another, Zinsser emphasized, “Every reader is different too.”
For in reality, it is impossible to know what “exactly” our readers would love to read. Moreover, it is easier, doable and attainable to write for ourselves. Because having that mentality, encourages us to fearlessly write and express our thoughts, in the distinct tone of our respective voice, style and individuality, for those should always be present each time we write.
Just like in academics, our English teachers always encourage us to write on topics that matter to us. Because to come up with a meaningful writing, we have to write about things that we are passionate of; issues that truly matter to us. For that is the strongest foundation of it all—Write what matters—Write what matters to you!
For when we write what matter to us, we would write, just as how we normally converse. Even if we don’t see our readers face-to-face, we should write as if we are talking to them in person, that they are right in front of us; all eyes, all ears listening, so we talk or write from the heart. And when we do write from the heart; in the most sincere and succinct ways, though we may not hear applause, or get a handshake, our readers will know, and they will appreciate that. So, write what matters, and write what matters to you!
–30–
This is an assuring and motivating article! Thank you for sharing with us. Cheers!! 😀
LikeLike
It’s good to know! 😊 Thank you! And I hope you’ll stay as passionate as you are now, in both writing and blogging, because you are so good at it!
LikeLike
You’re always welcome~ Thank you for being such a sweet sweet friend….Cheers~ 😀
LikeLike
You are sweet too! I bet if together, there’d be platoons of ants. 😄 Thank you for everything! 😊 Xoxo
LikeLike
LOL…a platoon?? Let’s just be sweet BUT sugar-free, what do you think??
Cheers~ 😀
LikeLike
That sounds great! Coz seriously, I’m scared of ants. They bite so mean that’s why. 😄 Thank you! 😊
LikeLike
You’re always welcome, my sugar-free friend! Cheers~ 😀
LikeLike
I couldn’t agree more. If I were to try to write thinking about a ‘readership’ I would be blocked completely. I write from within! Sometimes I doubt my writing however, it is what it is. If some appreciate it, this is okay by me. If some do not appreciate it, this is likewise okay. I cannot be, nor write, in a fashion that does not portray me.
Thank You Aina fro this piece; it made me think! Isn’t that what writing is supposed to do…!?!
LikeLike
Thank you, Carol! 😊 Yours is so distinct and special! From symbolism alone, and the insights and wisdom attached, there’s only you, among the many of us here, who could do it so well! So, thank you! 😊
LikeLike
Hello, Francis! It feels so good to know. You’re a well of knowledge and insights, and reading your posts always help me find the answers to personal issues that I had to deal within. And I thank you for the light, ever so bright, that you keep shedding to us. Thank you! 😊
LikeLike
That is so sweet of you to say, Aina…
We each have a particular way of expression that suits us; I think that is what makes our community so interesting and enjoyable. I get to appreciate you and your interests and understandings, and hopefully visa versa…
It is almost like voyeurism, in the most delightful sense..
LikeLike
I am just being honest. Everyone knows that. And your recordings, they’re making your writing more powerful, Cariol. It’s evident to the peace you have within, which unfortunately, not all of us, are lucky enough to have. Again, thank you!
LikeLike
Knowing that our readers will “know” is a deeply motivating insight, thanks Aina.
LikeLike
Hello, Francis! It feels so good to know. You’re a well of knowledge and insights, and reading your posts always help me find the answers to personal issues that I had to deal within. And I thank you for the light, ever so bright, that you keep shedding to us. Thank you! 😊
LikeLike
Wonderful post Aina, I can never get away from writing with the life-light in my heart and spirit, I have always thought the messages that come are for everyone, the gift is beyond me, i just wield the pen as the words fall into my mind! I never seem to think about it ahead of time, it just flows to me…and it is a beautiful ride…I always thank Him for the blessing to be able to love others that way with embracing words. Thanks again dear sister, alway a delight to read and embrace you!
LikeLike
Thank you, My Brother! You’re a legend! Your words and your heart, are inspiring the blogosphere! God bless you!
LikeLike
Awesome reminder. Orson Scott Card also says to, “just write! There are a thousand ways to write something and a hundred ways would be right, so just write!”. Thank you so very much.
Pink.
LikeLike
Ameen, Pretty Pink! Merci! 😊
LikeLike
This is an Beautiful ,assuring and motivating articleH!ave nice day!
LikeLike
I am glad to hear that Stefan!
LikeLike
This wisdom informs my writing: “The hallmark of the personal essay is its intimacy. . . [its] drive toward candor and self-disclosure, [as if] the writer [is] speaking directly into your ear.” Phillip Lopate, “The Art of the Personal Essay”
LikeLike
Hello! Thanks for dropping by, and for the insight as well! God bless you!
LikeLike
Dear Aina,, great review of an author’s opinion about the subject.l write to express my thoughts and hope some one will benefit from my thoughts . For the last 30years l been writing for ethnic news papers l think l am reaching the readers.All the best.Thank you for liking my post (Authentic Responsibility…) Sincerely jalal
LikeLike
Jalai, you are an amazing person! An amazing writer, an amazing friend! Thank you for your kind support!
LikeLike
You have a wonderful blog
LikeLike
You have a wonderful blog as well = ) Thanks!
LikeLike
Dear Aina,thank you for the sweet thoughts of yours ,l appreciate your visit.Warm regards.jalal
LikeLike
Very inspiring blog, truly 🙂
LikeLike