Just a thought: about writing and life

“Either write something worth reading or do something worth writing.” – Benjamin Franklin

Lofty goals but certainly worthy aspirations nevertheless.

Those who aspire to be published writers need to be constantly striving to write what others will want to read. In an era when becoming a “published” writer is easier than ever before – I speak here of blogs in particular – the temptation to churn out absolute rubbish has become almost universal.

Despite its obvious shortcomings however, blogging is becoming one of the most powerful social movements of the modern era. And it’s only in its infancy; the long-term potential is staggering. If you don’t believe me, think about the ubiquitous mobile phone. As recent as twenty years ago they were bulky bricks one lugged around if you could afford it. Now look at them. Personal, instant communication is available and mostly affordable to all.

So as writers we owe it to our readers to strive to “write something worth reading.” And if we can’t do that, Benjamin Franklin tells us to “do something worth writing” about. Perhaps in today’s language we might say: “get a life.” But make sure it’s a very interesting life, a life others will want to read about.

Of course, those of us who are really clever might be able to do both.