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(WestSide Books, Dec 2011; Fitzhenry & Whiteside, Feb 2012)
SkinWalkers: 
Why Did You Become A Writer?
photo credit: dotmatchbox
I can’t remember a time I didn’t read. Books were my escape from the horrific abuse of my child and teenhood–doors into other worlds, revelations on how people could really be (kind, caring, and compassionate), and hours of enjoyment.
Writing, too, is something I took to right away. My abusers frequently threatened to kill me if I talked about the abuse, and they criticized most things I said or turned it into psychological, sexual, or physical abuse, so I quickly learned not to speak much. But writing–writing was safe. It was a world mostly untouched by my abusers. It was a way I could tap into my inner world, everything that was going on inside, and get it out onto paper. It was also a way that I could safely express myself, and “talk” to others.
And when I wrote, the words flowed. They still do.
I love how I can reach others through my writing. I love how I can weave my own truths, compassion, caring into fiction, and make the fiction stronger. I love how I can break silences, show injustices, and help show ways of fighting horrors, all through fiction. Writing and books are like food to me. Necessary, and they feed my soul. I need to write, and I love to write.
Why do you write?
April 22nd, 2011 at 2:46 pm
I read to see the world beyond the hamlet I grew up in, to meet people like me, to feel less alone. I wrote because I had things to say, but no one (parents don’t count) to say them to, because I loved words, loved language, and, I suspect, because Harriet the Spy did and I wanted to be a spy when I grew up.
April 22nd, 2011 at 3:25 pm
I love hearing why you write, Kathy; thanks for sharing! That makes a lot of sense to me–things to say and no one to say them to.
April 22nd, 2011 at 6:08 pm
Cheryl, when I started, I did to challenge myself to complete a story. Ended up discovering myself in the process. I continue on that road of self-discovery, relishing every moment. Both writing and reading have been blessings in my life. I’m truly grateful. : )
April 22nd, 2011 at 7:07 pm
Ezzy, how very cool that, in writing because of a challenge, you discovered yourself! Writing can be such a healing thing. I’m glad you have it to turn to.
April 22nd, 2011 at 10:26 pm
Your moving explanation on your love for writing made me think just how important literacy is. I can’t imagine not having the emotional/creative outlet of reading and writing.
I am so glad it was there for you and you, in turn, have made a difference for the next generation with your gifts.
April 23rd, 2011 at 6:29 am
Ms S–I’m so glad to see you here again. And *thank you*. I need writing, and books, and I’m grateful, too, that I had them! And I’m so glad I’m giving to other readers now; that means so much to me.