Reasons for Writing

Looking back on my school days, the only subjects that I took any interest in or showed any aptitude for were English and History. Maths, science, geography, modern languages, each was a puzzling mystery which continued to allude me. Not surprisingly, evidence of information teachers bravely - but vainly - spent time and effort trying to impart, became all too clear when the annual report cards were sent home.

I finished my formal schooling in Ireland, under the auspices of the Sisters of Mercy, who like their Christian Brothers counterparts had their own unique take on discipline and grievance; they administered the discipline, you were left nursing the grievance. However, despite this I did gain a love of books and reading, which in turn nurtured my interest in writing.

I first began my “writing career” some forty years ago submitting reports to the local county newspaper about the exploits of our junior Gaelic football club while still at school. Although not from a journalism or copywriting background, I have over the years since written and seen published in both online and traditional print; articles, features, essays, newsletters, press releases, blogs and poetry as well as managing a variety of own and third-party social media outputs. To my LinkedIn profile I can now add, blog writer for More than Writers.

My writing interests are quite eclectic focused mainly, but not exclusively, on non-fiction. I have previously written a couple of book reviews both fiction and non-fiction, including one posted on my website last year, of Andrew Bradstock’s well-received biography of former England Cricketer and Bishop of Liverpool, David Sheppard. I would also like to try and develop my interest in writing for radio particularly adaptations of books or plays. I’ve had a dabble as they say with a favourite Irish short story which was critiqued by playwright Helen Cross, who provided plenty of encouraging feedback.

What makes a good Writer? Answers on a postcard please as everyone will have their own opinion. But here are the rules I try to live by – if not always successfully.

A good writer is someone who provides not only interesting facts concerning their chosen subject, but can also where appropriate, inject a certain amount of humour thereby engaging the reader and encouraging further dialogue with them.

A good writer is someone who should appeal to all the human emotional states: joyful or sorrowful; amused or offended; motivated or deflated; placated or angered.

A good writer should not be afraid to stoke controversy if the brief they are given requires it: but should refrain from expressing anything that may be considered unnecessarily offensive.

A good writer is always mindful of their audience; not only the immediate one to whom they are addressing, but also the wider audience whether public or specialist.

Finally, a good writer should aim to leave words on pages which eventually become indelibly etched on people’s hearts and minds regardless of subject or genre.

Having seen previous efforts going into print (and then online) ever since I began submitting those newspaper reports all those years ago, like all writers I have never lost the thrill of seeing the finished article, the results of creative endeavours. I am now at that stage in my life where I want to do those things that not only stimulate me intellectually, but allow me the opportunity to explore my Christian faith in a more deep and meaningful way.  

 

Michael Cronogue writes on matters of faith and theology on his website www.michaelcronogue.com. He also blogs creatively at https://blackcountrylondoner.wordpress.com