Plot structure, genre features and tropes are all storytelling techniques that we expect to reread time and time again. Often, it’s quite enjoyable. We all have our favourite genres and character arcs, but as writers, we walk a fine line between incorporating these structures and experimenting with our inspiration. 

Feeling pressured to publish a successful book, we can often fear the consequences of disregarding the expectations of our readers and the literary community.

Yet, when we restrict our creative flow, we risk the loss of our intrinsic joy for writing. 

Today, I want to discuss why you shouldn’t follow these expectations (at least while writing your first draft). I want you to write for yourself first, to consider your audience later, during the revision process.  I want to help you get back to the reason that writing is your passion. 

And, when writing without the reader at the forefront of your mind, I want you to feel certain that this method is still beneficial. You can publish a successful narrative without catering solely to the reader!

Writing with the masses in mind is a surefire way to generalization. Generalizing large amounts of prose tends to come off as tip-toeing around the bushes, not wanting to assertively stake your side for fear of angering one of your potential readers. The writing becomes pale and cookie-cutter as a result.

But, when you write for yourself without fear of your readers’ reactions, your writing is vibrant, personal and intriguing. Your craft improves tenfold! Here are just three ways that you benefit…

Finding your voice is difficult when you’re pegged in by expectations.

When you write for yourself and allow your personal experiences to guide you, your prose gains colour.

Your unique writer’s voice is infused throughout your story as you’ve given yourself space to express what connects with you– the author.

And often, you’ll find readers who are ecstatic to discover a like-minded individual.

Your writing voice will connect with those who think, feel and have similar experiences to you.

They will get it. They will get you!

When you write for yourself first without worrying about readers’ engagement, you often find that you’ve given yourself the space and time to experiment. 

Experimentation with different writing styles and tropes means that your characters may not follow the expected outcome for your genre.

It may mean that they stride off the beaten path and your initial plan is foiled.

Perhaps, this is worrisome to you or perhaps, you are exhilarated by the turn your plot has taken!

When you write for yourself before considering the reader, you are engaged and inspired by your writing. The writing process remains exciting. Not robotic!

You are motivated to keep going. The endpoint is just as much a surprise to you. You are eager to uncover your characters’ transformative journeys. And how exciting is that!

When you write for yourself first, surprises await your readers as well. An innovative plot shares something old in a new way.

Let’s face it, there isn’t a “new idea.” Yet, how we package these old ideas- these old stories- can bring the reader along on an entirely new journey.

A passive reader knows what’s coming. An engaged reader is kept on their toes because the writer hasn’t catered to all of their expectations.

This isn’t to say that we should completely confuse the reader or not prepare them for sensitive content. There is still a level of trust and understanding that is expected between the writer and the reader.

However, even within these parameters,  the reader can enjoy an exhilarating journey full of questions and surprises before your plot’s conclusion.

Your readers may connect with or learn from your unique perspective and experiences.

We are diverse. Our interests are diverse.

Sometimes, I read a book that doesn’t connect with me, that I may even disagree with. When I come across a text that challenges me, I don’t necessarily dislike it. Occasionally, I’m thrilled by the intellectual battle!

Some will read your book because it connects with who they are; others will read it because it brings them into a space outside their comfort zone. 

Start a conversation with your writing. Share about a topic or an issue that you are passionate about. Think about the thematic backdrop to your story and visualize that theme without rose-tinted glasses. 

Be honest because people-pleasing won’t work. Disgruntled readers will be around the corner no matter what you write.

Passionate and grateful readers will be hot on their heels. If readers are arguing about your book, you’ve done something right!

Readers will recognize your authenticity. A genuine story is about the character’s journey. Not putting to paper what you assume the reader expects to see.

Break the reader’s expectations.

They will recognize the effort and care with which you wrote your manuscript. They will understand that you hold your craft and your readers in high regard because rather than publishing a cut and past outline of any novel (insert character’s names and settings), you have given them a new world, a new challenge to digest!

Creative pursuits should be a freeing experience.

Our world is tightly ruled and we spend so much time trying to fit within its parameters. Creativity elicits an opportunity to take risks. 

The moment that you hesitate to write for yourself, the moment that you erase what fueled your spark, fearing that the reader won’t connect with you, is the moment when you begin to lose your passion for writing.

Write without limitations. Break free from literary expectations. All can be refined in the revision process.

There is an audience for every book. I truly believe that! While some audiences roar louder than others, the silent reader will appreciate your narrative just as much.

Write for you. And you alone.

What worries do you face when trying to write for yourself? Share them in the comments below.

Then, comment on a fellow writer’s post with some words of encouragement.

Talk soon!

Julia