When we sit down to write, are we doing it for personal expression or to connect with our audience? Some say writing for ourselves keeps our work authentic, while others believe writing with the audience in mind creates a stronger connection. What’s the real balance? Let’s dig into the pros and cons of writing for ourselves versus writing for our readers.
When I sit down to write, whether it's for myself or for my audience, I always think about authenticity and connection. My work is a reflection of who I am—my experiences, my culture, my voice—and that’s what drives the authenticity. Writing for myself allows me to stay true to those elements. It’s where I can fully explore the raw, unfiltered thoughts, emotions, and truths that need to be shared, whether or not others are ready for them. This is crucial because without personal authenticity, there’s no depth or soul in the work.
At the same time, as a storyteller, I’ve learned that writing isn’t just about self-expression; it’s about building a bridge to the reader. Especially in my prose and “prosetry” style, I aim to draw the audience in, evoke feelings, and provoke thoughts that resonate with them. Writing with the audience in mind creates that sense of engagement. It's like inviting someone into a dialogue instead of delivering a monologue.
The balance? It’s about staying authentic while being intentional about how I communicate. For me, it's not a matter of choosing between writing for myself or my audience—it's about intertwining the two. Writing that honors both my truth and my reader’s experience is where the real magic happens. That’s what keeps the work alive and meaningful for everyone involved.
TC Neville Senior
Founder & CEO, KVI Network Creations LLC
Author | Publisher | Creative Consultant
www.kvinetworkcreations.com
Bachelor of Theology | BS in Leadership and Organizational Management
