Pausing for Prose
By Cassaundra Brooks
Decades ago, writing was a privileged activity of the elite and the educated upper classes. Today, people of all ages, levels of education, and walks of life publish their work. In an effort to both celebrate and encourage the present state of writing, John Riddle of Delaware dreamed up I Love to Write Day (ILTWD), which occurs annually every November 15. The concept of ILTWD is quite simple: everyone is encouraged to write—or finish writing—something. A novel, a short story, a poem, an essay, a letter. Fiction or non-fiction. Anything.
“You don’t have to set a goal of writing a novel,” Riddle says. “Just write something that is short, and meaningful to you.” Whether or not you consider yourself a writer, writing can be a fun and challenging activity.
The simplicity of and the inspirational quality to this national celebration have helped the news spread quickly. Since its creation in 2002, I Love to Write Day has grown to the point of directly affecting over 20,000 schools, which hold celebratory writing activities every November 15. Numerous bookstores, libraries, churches, community centers, and even malls recognize I Love to Write Day, and nine state governors have officially made November 15 ILTWD in their states.
Perhaps I Love to Write Day will launch the career of the next John Grisham or Stephen King, as Riddle sometimes allows himself to dream. Or perhaps you will discover that you enjoy writing just as much as you did before—which may be not much at all. But even so, you may learn a respect and appreciation for those who dedicate significant time to the craft. And you may just learn something about yourself, too.
For more information on how to participate in I Love To Write Day, visit ilovetowriteday.org.