What motivates an author to record personal stories in a journal? Why do some top artists sing their lyrics and admit there’s a personal story behind the writing of their song? Writing is often the key that unlocks the creative mind, motivated by strong opinion, a need for self expression, a desire to document an important memory or a way to release pain, making sense of powerful emotions and possibly inner struggles.
Leo Tolstoy, one of the world’s greatest novelists, revealed a great deal of his own life through his writing. For example, “Childhood”, “Boyhood” and “Youth” (1852-1856) are three of his earliest novels that share his accounts of growing up.
In a version of the series, “Chicken Soup for the Soul” called “The Story Behind the Song”, 101 classics and their verses are shared, along with the personal inspiration behind the writing. Some of the artists who share include Christina Aguilera (“Fighter”), Melissa Etheridge (“Come to My Window”) and Richie Sambora (“Livin’on a Prayer”).
What motivates a writer?
Motivation often comes from personal experience and the heart and soul of the writer. (No big secret to me) So, imagine my surprise when an old love contacted me and complained that one of my stories had mirrored “our story” too closely. He recognized that the story’s character was his identical twin, but he didn’t want to claim him for his relative. Well, I offered no apologies at the time, although I now wish I had pointed out to him that I’m in good company.
Take for example Taylor Swift, today’s “It” girl. In her new CD, “Speak Now”, she gave future boyfriends notice: “If you’re in my life, you might end up being a character in my song”. Lately, her newest song, “Back to December”, is creating buzz. It’s a slow emotional song that’s being compared to a brave apology she’s giving to her ex- boyfriend from December of 2009, Twilight films’ Taylor Lautner. Swift has always written about her life, so why are people surprised by her latest lyrics? In an interview, she stated: “If something goes wrong, I’m not afraid to write about it.” This girl is Fearless, like the name of her platinum CD.
The root of motivation varies for each individual, but often the best song lyric, the best creative article, novella or novel, was born out of the artist’s own experience,recollection or emotion.
“We need to remember that we are created creative and can invent new scenarios as frequently as they are needed.“~ Maya Angelou
My advice to that ex:
“Don’t forget to set a place for the twin, at your next family reunion.”
No amount of complaining will make him leave the dinner table. He’s right where he belongs. I’m not an oddity, but the norm.
(Okay, I’ll admit it. Maybe I should have followed Taylor Swift’s lead and given him an FYI in the beginning of our relationship.)
Another lesson learned.
Hey….maybe I’ll write about that…..
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Frankly, I am motivated to write, in part, to help promote my law firm’s website and law practice. I practice law with my son, (and will be joined in our law practice by two more sons in the future!) I am also motivated to write, in part, to share some of my experiences, or “war stories,” from the courtroom with my family members and friends. Finally, I simply enjoy sharing practical tips about law with others!
My writing is deeply personal but in an impersonal way. I write to express my joy and wonder at being alive.