Writing in Response
I find I do some really worthwhile writing in response. Sometimes to news stories, sometimes to essays or blogs. I usually respond when something taps a rich vein of feeling. The subject, or how it has been addressed, speaks to me so strongly that I can’t not respond.
Sometimes I send these responses, but most of the time, I simply write them to see what I mean. To get to the bottom of whatever is provoking such a powerful reaction in me. It might come out as a political rant or an essay about my great grandmother’s manic depression or a humorous anecdote about life with kids. But it’s always viceral and feels potent, not just in the writing, but when it’s done. The work is often strong, concise.
What makes you have to write? Do you comment on blogs (I seldom do) or send letters to the editor (I’ve done this only a few times)? Do you send an e-mail to the author? (I’ve done this pretty often.) Or do you channel it into fiction, an essay or some other writing you’re doing?
Share your stories in comments.