Thank you.
Yes, you.
It’s Thanksgiving Day. If you’re reading this, then I’m grateful to you, and for you. Specifically, individually, personally.
Whether you’re reading this by email, on the web, or in some yet-to-be-compiled future book of Contrary Gary’s blog posts.
All writers appreciate all their readers. Every. Last. One.
Lots of writers sometimes imply they don’t need their readers, or don’t think much about them. They’re just driven to write (they say), and would write even if they knew no one would ever read their stuff.
I’ve said similar things myself. For example, there’s my blog post about how I write, first and foremost, the book I’d want to read. Even if I knew doing so would cost me readers.
But here’s the thing: Without readers, I’d still feel a compulsion to write. But I’m not sure I’d be able to write. Probably the urge would be an itch I couldn’t scratch.
Be that as it may, I certainly write more, and better, stuff when I know at least one person will read and react to it. The dynamic changes profoundly.
When writers say they’d write even if no one were reading, I don’t think that’s quite what they mean. They more likely mean they’d write even if no one were paying them to write. (But that’s very different.)
Some writers also suggest that the only readers they consider important are those who “engage”. That is, who comment, give feedback, share one’s stuff on social media, or whatnot.
Horseradish! No one loves a good conversation more than I do, and if something I write triggers dialogue, then I’ve achieved a primary goal. But given the choice, I’d prefer a thousand thoughtful, quiet readers to a hundred “engagers”.
Of course, both would be even better!
So if you’re reading this, have the happiest of Happy Thanksgivings. And if you’re not — you too!
8 responses to “Thank You!”
Your e-mails are appreciated and Thanksgiving is a good time fo tell you. linda
Gratitude is the bridge to everything !😊!😊!😊
I get it. I would need to create visual art even if no one appreciates what I do.
Happy Thanksgiving Gary. Yes, I know the sentiment you mention. We all create things for ourselves first. No doubt. But it’s when others read it, view it, engage with it, identify with it… that’s when it becomes totally worthwhile.
Happy Thanksgiving to you too. I have been so busy to making important and right decisions that takes lots of my energy but thanks God Baha’ullah is hearing my prayers and been guiding me in the right direction; I’m so grateful that I’m Baha’i and have Baha’u’llah.
Sorry I haven’t followed your writings but I haven’t checked my emails regularly either; However, I’m glad that you still do writing as you love doing it and hoping more success and happiness in life with cheri.
Love you both and so happy to know you,
Toby
In Alaska, I always considered Janet Smith to be my dearest friend, severest critique and intellectual enemy. Anything I wrote had to pass her tough-love scrutiny before it went to press. Sixteen years ago we married and 4 years ago she died with Alzheimer’s. I still write wondering if it will pass the Janet test. Now, I write mainly for my own entertainment, plumbing questions that interest me. Although, there have been two items that were private property for 25 years before I was motivated to publish.Both were well received. That was frosting, giving extra joy.
John, I’m sorry for your loss — but what a treasure your dear Janet was and always will be. Cheri and I have a similar relationship. Writing-wise and otherwise. If it doesn’t pass the “Cheri test”, I know it needs work.
Please remind us of the titles of your two most recent books. I’m assuming one of them is your wonderful “Crazy Lovers of Baha’u’llah”? Of course, you are still famous for your book on consultation, a classic in Baha’i literature.
Keep those words coming Gary!