People wonder why you choose certain subjects to write about. The truth is: you don't really. They choose you
This quote by Sebastian Faulks keenly captures the mysterious and almost predestined relationship between a writer and their chosen subjects. It challenges the common assumption that writers consciously select their topics purely by personal preference or thoughtful decision-making. Instead, it suggests that subjects have a magnetic pull, leading writers to explore specific themes and stories. This perspective resonates deeply because it acknowledges the subconscious layers influencing creativity. Writers often find themselves drawn to subjects that reflect their inner questions, life experiences, or the cultural zeitgeist they are immersed in. One could argue that this phenomenon isn't limited to writers alone but applies to other creative pursuits as well—musicians gravitate towards certain genres, painters toward particular motifs, and filmmakers toward distinct narratives—perhaps because these choices somehow answer something within them that they might not fully understand yet.
Moreover, this quote implies a certain surrender to creativity: writers do not possess full control over what they produce; instead, they must remain open and responsive to the subjects that reveal themselves to them. This encourages an authentic and organic process, where writing becomes a means of discovery rather than arbitrary creation. It highlights the deep bond between artist and inspiration and the idea that writing is an act of listening as much as it is an act of expressing. Faulks' insight can also be comforting to aspiring writers, alleviating the pressure of "making a perfect choice" and reminding them to trust the natural flow of their interests and passions.