Among other things, I am a writer. I enjoy the craft, the artistry, even the subjectivity as to what constitutes good or bad writing.
In the early years of this millennium, there was much debate around the evolution of journalism as we witnessed the rise of the blogger. In 2008, respected author and journalist Buzz Bissinger infamously wielded his deep disgust of the blogosphere during an utter evisceration of blogger, journalist and author Will Leitch on HBO’s “Costas Now.”
“I think blogs are dedicated to cruelty, they’re dedicated to dishonesty, they’re dedicated to speed,” he said, clearly angered, and going on later to profanely denounce bloggers and Leitch personally.
While today Leitch, founder of Deadspin, writes for Bloomberg and New York Magazine among others, the reality is that bloggers have added much-needed new context to journalistic expression. Bloggers brought then, and still bring, great dexterity to the way in which news, sports, politics, technology, DIY culture and nearly any other topic are articulated.
What’s the point?
As writing continues to evolve in diverse forms — from poetry to text messages, fiction to Facebook posts, opinion editorials to journalistically written pieces — a group called the National Council of Teachers of English (NCTE) are commemorating the eighth National Day on Writing this week on October 20, asking people of all walks to post #WhyIWrite in social media. The annual celebration of writing in all its forms and purposes aims to ensure that writing is recognized as a foundational component of educational growth and human relationships.
“Writing is essential to literacy and education,” said Emily Kirkpatrick, executive director of the nonprofit NCTE, the oldest literacy organization in the United States. “New technologies and globalization are driving us to communicate in different ways and at a breathtaking pace. While more people are writing in their daily lives now than at any other point in human history, we must continue to teach and encourage a broad diversity of writing, from poetry to fiction to technical writing to emails to social media posts and beyond.”
Founded in 2009, the National Day on Writing has become a popular participatory social media event through the #WhyIWrite hashtag, and this year NCTE is launching a new website and podcast hosted by author and social media thought leader C.C. Chapman.
“As a writer, I am thrilled to partner with NCTE and to bring to light conversations about the importance and vitality of diverse writing,” said Chapman. “We will continue to recruit authors across all genres, mediums, and walks of life to participate in the podcasts beyond the National Day on Writing to keep the discussion alive year-round.”
Upcoming podcast guests include New York Times best-selling author Brad Meltzer, Rock & Roll Hall of Famer John Oates, Seth Godin, ESPN broadcaster Kenny Mayne, and Jonathan Fields, among others.
Whether you are a poet or a blogger, poet, a rabid texter, novelist or simply an IMer — writing is indeed a pillar human interaction. So this year as NCTE asks you to share on social media #WhyIWrite, be sure to hop on your favorite social media channel and share your inspiration, your thoughts, your dreams.
So on Thursday, Oct. 20, be sure to tell anyone paying attention #WhyIWrite.