The Art of Writing: Nature or Nurture
Is the art of writing nature or nurture? What do you think? Obviously, writers love to write. I know I do. When I’m in the middle of a writing project, I write every day, all day and sometimes instead of sleeping. I’ve been writing since I was a child. But was it nature?
Some say, anyone can learn to write. It’s probably true. I’ve taught creative writing to many young folk. What about the phrase, “Natural born writer?” Well, I simply don’t believe that one.
A while ago, a friend questioned me about my love of writing.
She asked, “Do you think writing came natural to you?”
“Yes and no,” was my answer.
My theory is… a writer is not born but made. We all know of authors who started writing as children. Their love of writing seems natural. I don’t think it is. Here’s how writers are made.
How to Craft the Art of Writing
For those who want to learn to write there are entire websites, classes in our schools and whole books dedicated to teaching writing. So called natural writers, don’t need classes. The truth is that most noted writers have degrees in English or have taken writing classes. On the other hand, there are some like Mark Twain. He dropped out of school at 11.
Twain’s story proves some can learn to write without taking classes. At the same time, it shows writing is likely nurtured. He may have dropped out of school, but he became a typesetter and spent countless hours reading.
How is Writing Nurtured?
I suggest writing is nurtured in three ways.
1. Reading Books
Reading is the key to writing. When a parent reads to a child it ignites their desire for self-expression. There is even a possible bonus. Some children learn to read without being taught. They crack the code by hearing and seeing the words. It’s enough for them.
Children who develop a love for reading, read everything. They are fascinated with words, stories, ideas and they develop superior imaginations. Some even begin to write their own stories and ideas. They build up libraries and compile lists of their favorite books. Reading is the first step to learning how to write.
2. Story Telling
Some parents, read or make up stories for their children. Let your child tell stories too. Let them tell stories to you, your friends, your coworkers and anyone willing to listen and encourage them. There is no need for a child to write or even know how to write before they start telling stories. If they love it, or have a knack, they may start writing down their stories or ideas. I wrote stories when I was young. My mother still has a story I wrote on a scrappy piece of notebook paper in my fourth grade classroom.
Writing becomes a compulsive method of expression to those we consider natural born writers. That obsession, is perhaps, the part we cannot teach.
3. Questions
Did a parent tolerate your constant questioning? Both my parents did. My father encouraged it and he asked many questions of me. He made me a thinker. The best writers are curious, self-directed thinkers. There is nothing greater than the ability to ask questions and then to write about your musings.
My Verdict on Nature Vs Nurture
Writers are nurtured. As children they read, get encouraged to write their thoughts and are allowed to freely ask questions. In time, at least it happened to me, writing feels natural. Interesting in learning more about the art of writing? If so, read 10 Writing Style Rules Every Writer Should Know.
