As a serious writer, it can be enlightening to realize that most writers share a similar set of characteristics that are unique to what we do. But when something is your passion, chances are you'll become a bit insufferable. Here are six reasons why writers are actually the worst.
1. We're perfectionists.
When it comes to writing, we do not tolerate anything less than perfection. There is no such thing as mediocrity and we have no desire to just "get it over with". Every word and every sentence is thought out meticulously, erased, rewritten, and revised, until we are completely satisfied with the final product. Sometimes we can be a bit over-analytical, but to a writer, there is no greater sin than crappy writing.
2. We're hermits.
A lot of (not all) writers are introverts, and there is only so much socializing we can take in a day. Sometimes it's necessary to just hide out in our room and get to writing. And when we get going, there's no telling when we stop. When an idea starts to flow, we lose track of time and at some point we'll realize that we haven't seen sunlight in three days.
3. We're arrogant.
Writers are extremely hard on themselves, but when we've got something good, we know it's good. We act humble when other people compliment our writing, but trust me we are very aware of our brilliance. There is no better feeling than knowing you've achieved exactly what you wanted to achieve with your writing. And hey, we gloat a little.
4. We can break your heart with words.
Writers have the wonderful ability to put your thoughts, feelings, and emotions into words. Ethos, pathos, and logos are our best friends and we know how to make a lasting impact on our readers. One of the most impressive things a writer can do is make someone feel--whether it be happy, sad, inspired or angry, we love to evoke a response. And even if we're saying something terrible, we can say it beautifully.
5. We don't sleep.
As I'm sitting here writing this, I just watched the clock strike midnight. Late at night is prime writing time for most of us because there are few distractions. We can be alone and let the creative juices get going. A lot of us are also a little too well acquainted with Starbucks and after three venti iced-coffees, we have all the energy in the world to produce something great. Even if it costs us our beauty sleep.
6. We're a little crazy.
It is my belief that all great artists are a little insane. This is especially true for writers because we possess the ability to think about things in ways that haven't been thought of before. We confuse even ourselves with crazy ideas and it is a struggle to get our brains to shut up for just one second. We find creative inspiration in something new each day--a conversation with a friend, a doorknob, the shape of a cloud. And then it consumes and nags at our thoughts nonstop until we can finally set it free on paper. No wonder we're a bit off.
