When Writing is Home
A pep talk from the archive
Throughout my life that, from an early age, was never defined by family security or conventionality, writing and other creative passions have been a real home.
Which is why the below words from Natalie Goldberg, written years ago but never as relevant, comfort and remind me of how important it is to remain self-expressive as we all move swiftly through these increasingly unstable times.
“I write because I am alone and move through the world alone. No one will know what has passed through me ... I write because there are stories that people have forgotten to tell, because I am a woman trying to stand up in my life ... I write out of hurt and how to make hurt okay; how to make myself strong and come home, and it may be the only real home I'll ever have.”-Natalie Goldberg
If we define our lives through superficial accomplishments we’re lost. However, if we define and shape our lives by involving ourselves even more deeply with what it is we love, and doing what we feel we were put here to do, we will continue to thrive despite the hellish times we’re living through now.
Let’s continue to work on our personal literary rescue plans for 2025, and also continue to value and grow our quirky creative community.
The world is a dark and terrifying place, and yet there are always pockets of light when we engage in exactly what it is we love. Please feel free to share with the other writers here what it is that keeps you going. We’re always looking for new ideas and valuable ways to support each other.
That's a wonderful statement from NG. Writing is a place, and I find that concrete details and juxtapositions will always land me in story.
I cannot get enough of these inspiring words. I love building and rebuilding the archive of
heart and mind each time I write and develop a story. There’s nothing more satisfying than pondering the possibilities of human and animal life.