Writing is often painted as a noble craft, but the reality is far less glamorous. Sure, there’s a fleeting sense of satisfaction in having completed a piece, much like the pride of winning a championship game; however, the journey to that moment is usually fraught with struggle and frustration. Consider the countless hours spent wrestling with a blank page, overwhelmed by the creeping fear that your words might not meet the expectations of a demanding editor. That anxiety can leave you feeling as if you’re constantly on the edge of financial ruin, juggling bills while yearning for a moment of creative reprieve.
It’s easy to romanticize the writing process, but how many of us have poured our hearts into a manuscript only to realize that we must scrap it all and start over? The time lost is immeasurable, and suddenly, the opportunity cost of what you could have done instead—hanging out with friends, diving into a good book, or binge-watching your favorite show—becomes painfully clear.
I imagine those who claim writing is a source of joy are the ones who always knew they were destined to be authors. They’ve never had to sit by the phone, avoiding calls from their editor, pondering whether a different career path—like firefighting or serving in the military—might have led to a more fulfilling and less stressful life.
Reflections on Great Writers
Take, for instance, the great writers of history. Edgar Allan Poe, who chased happiness through his craft, ended up delirious on the streets of Baltimore, dying at just 40. Jane Austen, whose brilliance went largely unrecognized during her lifetime, passed away at 41 with an epitaph that barely acknowledged her literary contributions. And then there’s Ernest Hemingway, who battled his demons with alcohol for decades before succumbing to despair. Even Mark Twain faced years of depression before his death in 1910.
In contrast, I know many people in other professions who seem far happier in their daily lives. I’ve yet to meet a construction worker who ends up alone and despondent because of their job.
And let’s not even touch on the trials of being an editor.
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In summary, while writing may lead to fleeting moments of satisfaction, the process itself can often be riddled with anxiety and disappointment. It’s essential to remember that there are other paths to fulfillment that don’t involve sitting in front of a screen, battling your inner critic.
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