I write because I have to

I have read a couple of really interesting articles lately. Ok, I've read a lot of articles, but two really stuck with me. If there is an article regarding being an author, I try to read it. Hopefully it will give me good tips on being a better writer.

One article was on a blog and it was talking about authors asking readers what they wanted.  Their advise was to write what you want to. Not every reader will like your story, your ending, your dialogue, your subject matter, etc.  What matters is that the author writes the story they want to tell, how they want to tell it. I have found this to be true. Not everyone who reads my books likes them. I'm okay with that, as long as I have those who do like the way I write, the characters, the dialogue, etc. I love my characters. I have to. They are a part of me, living in my brain, 24/7.  Yes, they speak to me. Yes, they dictate where the story goes. I'm okay with that.

Another article spoke about "how to tell if you're really a writer".  After several key points, the last one was the only one that mattered: you write because you have to.  This is me.  I have written since I was a teenager. From stories, to poetry, to song lyrics, I write. I doodle.  I make notes. I sometimes put these ideas together and sometimes, I don't. But I write. I have no choice.

Having said all that, I am a writer. I am going to a writer's retreat in May. I buy writing books. I am honing my craft. I want to be a better writer. If you have to do something, do it well.  Do it to the best of your ability. I want to write, to the best of my ability...