Why do writers write?

Good question!

Different writers have different answers.

I like David Baldacci’s explanation best. When he received another Mystery Writers of America award for Best New Novel in a Series at Bouchercon in New Orleans last year, he said he’s often asked, “After all these years of success with your bestselling novels, why do you keep writing more of them?”

His answer?

He exclaimed emphatically, “I tell them it’s because I’m trying to make a fucking difference!”

And he reminded us, “This is coming from the guy whose first successful bestselling novel (Absolute Power) was about a narcissistic President who thought he was above the law. And look where we are now!”

Louse Penny has responded that whatever she writes she has to be true to herself. “If there’s blowback from some readers and it hurts sales, so be it.”

Which leads me to my own story and my plans to support and promote those writers who have a purpose – “To make a difference!” – and have the courage and commitment to speak up on important social and political issues regardless of the potential blowback and loss of readers.