Who are you as a writer? It’s a question every writer grapples with at some point, and can get us through some difficult times and stagnating writing ruts.
Beyond the genres you work in or the stories you tell, your identity as a writer is deeply tied to your values, passions, and the way you view the world. When you're going through a slump or feeling as though you've lost your way, understanding who you are as a writer can help bring you back to your passion and core business. However, defining this identity isn’t about boxing yourself in—it’s about understanding what makes your voice unique and embracing it fully.
Why Your Identity Matters
Your identity as a writer is the foundation of your creative work. It influences:
Your voice: How you express yourself and connect with readers.
Your themes: The ideas and questions you explore repeatedly.
Your approach: Whether you outline meticulously or dive in headfirst, your process reflects who you are.
Your motivation: Having a clear idea of who you are and where you're headed can help you put your figurative pen to paper in the toughest of times.
Understanding your identity can provide clarity and confidence. It helps you navigate self-doubt, set goals, and build a writing life that aligns with your authentic self.
Questions to Help You Discover Your Writing Identity
What do you care about most? Think about the themes, values, or causes that consistently inspire you. Whether it’s social justice, personal growth, or the mysteries of human connection, the things you’re passionate about often shape the heart of your work. What matters to you?
What stories do you feel compelled to tell? What narratives keep coming back to you, even when you try to write something else? They could have been lingering for months or even years (raise your hand if you're yet to pen the recurring novel idea your 14-year-old self conceptualised!). These recurring ideas might be pointing you toward the core of your identity.
How do you want your readers to feel? Do you want to make people laugh, cry, or think deeply? Knowing the emotional impact you aim for can clarify your voice and purpose.
What are your influences? Consider the books, authors, and experiences that have shaped you. What do they have in common? How have they influenced your perspective as a writer?
What does writing mean to you? Is it a profession, a creative outlet, or a way to make sense of the world? Understanding your relationship with writing can help define how it fits into your life.
Embracing Your Unique Voice
Once you’ve reflected on these questions, take a moment to acknowledge and embrace what makes your voice unique. And keep in mind that you don’t have to fit into any preconceived mould to be a “real” writer - in fact, the best are known to break it! Colour outside the lines, think outside the box, and run your pen right off the (albeit, metaphorical) page! Whether you write poetry, novels, essays, or blog posts, your perspective matters.
Remember too that your identity as a writer can evolve over time. It’s okay if your priorities or passions shift; what’s important is to stay true to yourself and let your authenticity shine through in your work.
Final Thoughts
Defining your identity as a writer is an ongoing journey. It’s about discovering what drives you, honouring your individuality, and creating work that reflects your true self. So take the time to ask yourself these questions, reflect on your answers, and embrace the writer you are—and the one you’re becoming.
Who are you as a writer? Share your thoughts in the comments—we’d love to hear about your journey!
Cairns, Queensland AU
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