Yep, we survived 2016. It’s 2017 now.
Of course, all the problems are still there. We face a year of struggles, of clashes between loved ones, of disappointments and fears.
But that’s not the whole story.
This sounds like oversimplification, but it’s not: we need understanding, empathy, and hope. And in order to create those, we need to write.
Want to kick 2017 in the ass? Write.
Here’s why.
- Stories communicate concepts readers need to know – yes, even in the context of a fantasy universe. Worried about racism or class inequality? Show it in your stories. Create a world readers can understand and see the effect of these things on ordinary people.
- Stories introduce readers to empathy for people different from themselves – regardless of skin color, culture, religion, or even planet of origin. This is your chance to introduce empathy in a way any reader can get behind because there’s no personal risk.
- Stories bring hope because they remind readers that this part of their own story – the dark part, the hard part – isn’t the end. Life keeps going. There are successes and failures, victories and defeats, but if we do not give up, the dark part won’t be the end. And stories give you a chance to show that.
This year, you need to write. The power you hold as a storyteller is without measure. Let no one tell you otherwise.
Yes, we brought the problems of last year with us into this one – but that’s not the end of our story.
Kick 2017 in the ass. Write.
Reach for understanding, empathy, and hope. Write.
Tell your story and change the world. Write… and don’t let anything get in your way.
