Wednesday, February 24, 2010

Why Write, Part II?

by Debby Giusti

Last week in Seekerville, http://www.seekerville.blgospot.com/, I wrote about why writers write. The piece was well received and many stopped by to comment. I thought we might discuss the reasons we write here with the Craftie Ladies of Suspense.

At the beginning of my writing journey, I focused on the phrase “to touch readers’ hearts” as the steam that propelled my writing engine. Over the last few years, I’ve come to realize the pain many people carry and believe that, in order for my stories to resonate with readers, I need to create characters who struggle as well. The misconceived perceptions my characters hold onto concerning their past pain--whether physical or emotional--must be significant and inhibit them from accepting love from others and from God. When, in the course of the story, my hero or heroine triumphs over adversity, my readers—hopefully--realize God is more powerful than any conditions with which they may struggle in their daily lives.

In addition to spiritual themes, I’m also including universal truths such as how power corrupts and man’s inhumanity to man. Because of my concern for our country in these difficult times, I often touch on world problems, couched in a fictional tale where good always triumphs over evil.

I’ll continue to evaluate my writing in the years ahead to ensure I’m on the path I’ve been called to walk. Do you know what motivates you to work long hours, face rejection and yet still write? If so, I hope you’ll share those reasons with us today.

Happy writing!

Wishing you abundant blessings,
Debby Giusti

Visit my new blog and home of the Cross My Heart Prayer Team:

KILLER HEADLINE in stores now!

4 comments:

Pamela Tracy said...

When I first started writing, it was to combat grief because I missed my mother.

Now? You know, it's become a part of my everyday living, like breathing.

Debby Giusti said...

So Pam, what's your schedule? You teach and have a young child. Where do you find the time each day?

Lisa Mondello said...

At times, my writing feels so totally selfish to me. I write for the same reason I read, I enjoy it. I remember having a pencil in my hand and writing long stories when I was 10 years old. Other kids in the neighborhood were outside playing and I was holed up in my room at my desk writing. I think I was just meant to walk this path and I like where I've ended up. The journey has been sweet, even though at times it has been frustrating. The fact the other people enjoy my writing is an added bonus.

Debby Giusti said...

And we do enjoy your writing, Lisa! Congrats on all your success!