03 September 2007

Why does one write?

1. Because one feels the drive and the need to do so.
2. To entertain oneself and others.
3. To teach something to someone.
4. To improve the world.
5. To make one’s ideas known.
6. To free oneself from anguish.
7. To become famous.
8. To become rich.
9. Out of habit.


– Primo Levi, summary taken from his essay ‘Why Does One Write?’ in Other People’s Trades

2 comments:

Nayana Karia said...

To give physical form to and anchor transient, wispy thoughts and ideas before they float away and as an aid to reflection?

Perhaps also to share and elicit feedback and comment or criticism or support and thereby allow ideas to gather momentum and force?

Biswajit said...

Perhaps to commit myself, or to find meaning in life. Writing has always been an urge I've never been able to explain.