Everyone should write a novel.

I’m not talking about a short story. I’m not talking about a journal. I’m not talking about letters or emails. I am talking about a lengthy work of the imagination. (Screenplay or play probably is OK too.)

When you write a novel (or play or screenplay), you create characters and situations that you will live with for a long time.

You may have an idea who and what they are when you start writing, but they will fool you. They will start taking on a life of their own almost immediately.

After a while, you will find yourself eager to start writing every day, just to find out where your characters will take you next.

Your characters may seem as different FROM you as night from day. But never forget: Your characters ARE you.

That’s why writing a lengthy work of the imagination is such a singular experience. It is a voyage of self-discovery like no other. Not like psychotherapy, not like a religious experience — unless, that is, you define playing God as a religious experience.

So, if you’ve ever wanted to play God but weren’t quite sure how to do it, now you know.

Frank S. Joseph
www.tolovemercy.com

P.S. I’m appearing Sunday at 4 p.m. at “The Red House” right here in the town of Somerset. It’s “Local Author Night.” Please come. There will be light refreshments and shmoozing with the authors, followed by readings. The address:

4510 Cumberland Ave., Chevy Chase MD