People sometimes ask me why I
write—why I choose to spend so many hours alone with imaginary people, invented
worlds, and problems that only exist on the page. The answer is simple: I love
the process and especially the results. A deeper truth is that writing offers
me a type of fulfillment few other pursuits have ever matched. Over the past
decade of developing my craft, I have come to recognize four main joys that sit
at the very heart of being an independent author.
Creating In-Depth Personalities
One of my greatest pleasures in
writing is developing rich, believable personalities for my characters. I take
pleasure in imagining how they think, what motivates their behaviors, and how
every strength or flaw can affect their choices. My book characters are more
than participants in a story—they are the soul of every adventure. Molding
their attributes, their personalities, their backstories, their quirks and
habits—it is how I get to know them in depth. I love how one character can
affect an entire outcome.
Developing Purpose-Driven Adventures
I am drawn to stories driven by
purpose and/or desperation. I enjoy the challenge of designing adventures where
my characters react because they must, not because it is
convenient. When a character is backed against the wall or her heart is set on
something meaningful, the story gains momentum and emotional weight. Those are
moments that make writing both demanding and deeply rewarding.
Having Full Creative Control
Being an author means having
complete say over how my stories develop. I decide where the
narrative goes, how conflicts are resolved, and what lessons (subtle or
overt) emerge along the way. The freedom to create exactly what I choose allows me to
take creative risks and develop worlds, societies, cultures, and customs as they bloom in my imagination. It is
a pleasure and a privilege I do not take
lightly.
Learning With Every Book
Each book I write teaches me new principles about the art of storytelling. With every project, I gain a deeper
understanding of pacing, structure, timing, emotional resonance, tone and style, etc. Writing is a
continual learning process, and I find satisfaction in knowing that every story makes me stronger, more thoughtful, and more talented as an author. Being a writer is
not just about the tales I fabricate—it is about personal growth in my own creativity and imagination.
This is why I continue to return to the blank page, eager to write something new.
A Note to My Readers
If you found your way here through one of my stories, thank you for spending time in the fictional worlds I create. Writing is a conversation between author and reader, and I am grateful for every reader willing to step into a story with me. If you would like to explore more of my books, reflections, and projects, I invite you to browse my website at richellegoodrich.com. I hope you stay awhile.
—Richelle E. Goodrich
