Photo by Walter-Wilham on Flickr
“The world is a book and those who do not travel read only one page.”
Writers are a notorious anti-social crowd. We don’t generally go places, and if we can help it we prefer to stay indoors. Of course, this isn’t true of all writers – I’m sure many of you are very outgoing, outdoorsy people.
But stereotypically, we are not a very adventurous bunch.
I am no exception.
Despite this, there is one thing over the last few years that has broadened my writing abilities significantly: travel. Now, despite previously stating that I’m not a very social person and it sometimes will take quite a bit of effort from my family members to convince me to step outside, even if it’s just going to the grocery store – I love traveling.
Traveling is exhausting.
Traveling is exciting.
Traveling can be pretty darn scary.
But, goodness, is it all worth it. I’d highly recommend it, to anyone, writer or no – there’s nothing like actually seeing places, and meeting people that generally you’d only see in a book or read about online. But writers especially should, if they are able, make an effort to get out into the world.
Why?
It opens up your minds to all kinds of possibilities. All kinds of people, places, and experiences that can really help a writer grow. You learn to look at things in new ways, and you suddenly find yourself coming up with things that never would have even occurred to you.
You gather new experiences. This is important for writers – how are you supposed to write of wonder and create your own fascinating words, if you don’t bother to take time to appreciate the wonder that in this world?
Nothing replaces seeing something with your own eyes. Since the invention of the internet, you can access all kinds of places all over the world at your fingertips. Image searches, solid research, books – all of these things are incredibly valuable and useful resources.
But despite this, Googling pictures of an ocean, or looking at descriptions of an ocean does not replace actually being at an ocean. Or actually standing in Times Square. If there aren’t other options, then of course the internet will do – we can’t possibly experience everything that we put into our novels. (Some of the things that go into my novels I hope I never, ever have to experience. I’m sure most writers can relate.)
Next time you have the opportunity to travel, take it. And if you don’t, then you can at least find new things to do in your area! The point is to get out, try new things, and gather as many experiences as you can. Not only will it help you grow as a person, it will help you grow as a writer.
What are some places you’ve been to, and how, if at all, did it influence your writing? I’d love to hear from you!