Mastering Writing: The Essential Role of Reading in Your Journey
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The Importance of Reading for Writers
Reading is an invaluable yet often overlooked skill, especially within platforms like Medium. You'll encounter numerous articles that provide tips on improving writing skills—some even promote affiliate products or their own e-books. While these resources can be helpful, it's curious that we rarely see discussions focused on enhancing reading skills.
To understand this better, we can distinguish between writing as a productive skill and reading as a receptive one. The former allows individuals to generate language and claim ownership of their work, while the latter is about comprehension and absorbing information. This dynamic creates a hierarchy where writers are often seen as more significant than readers. In a sense, writers bask in the glory of their creations, while readers remain in the background, often unnoticed.
However, consider this: how can one claim dominance without followers? How can a writer thrive without readers? History is replete with examples of authors whose brilliance was only recognized posthumously due to a lack of readership during their lifetimes.
Take Emily Dickinson, for instance. Despite being a cornerstone of American poetry, she lived in obscurity, with only a handful of her 1800 poems published while she was alive. It was only after her death that her work garnered the acclaim it deserved.
Similarly, Edgar Allan Poe, known for pioneering the detective fiction genre, struggled to find publishers willing to support him during his life. It wasn't until after his passing that his remarkable stories achieved the recognition they deserved.
Then there's John Kennedy Toole, whose novel "A Confederacy of Dunces" was published posthumously to critical acclaim, winning him a Pulitzer Prize. These stories highlight an essential truth: a writer's success is intertwined with their readership.
Are You Supporting Your Fellow Writers?
Now, ask yourself: are you being a good reader for other writers? If you don’t actively engage with their work, how can you expect them to reciprocate?
On platforms like Medium, where writing is intertwined with social interaction, it’s important to engage with others. When you publish a piece, it's natural to hope for readers. However, life can get busy, and you might find yourself overwhelmed with notifications. What do you do in those moments?
Engagement: A Personal Responsibility
Take a moment to reconnect with your readers and apologize for any delayed responses. This act of kindness fosters a community of support, and you may find it rewarding.
In my own experience, I recently spent hours responding to old comments—an effort that left me feeling fulfilled yet guilty for not having done it sooner. I urge you not to make the same mistakes I have; always prioritize your readers' engagement.
Now, take this moment to reach out to those whose comments you may have missed. They deserve your attention and appreciation.
How to Read Like a Writer (to become a better writer)
This video dives into the nuances of reading with a writer's mindset, emphasizing how understanding various styles can enhance your own writing.
3 Steps to Become a Better Writer
This video outlines actionable steps to improve your writing, focusing on the importance of engaging with both your own work and the work of others.