F. Scott Fitzgerald: 'You don't write because you want to say something, you write because you have something to say.'

You don't write because you want to say something, you write because you have something to say.

In his quote, F. Scott Fitzgerald encapsulates the essence of purposeful writing by stating, "You don't write because you want to say something, you write because you have something to say." Simplifying this quote, Fitzgerald asserts that writing stems from a genuine need to communicate a significant message rather than just expressing a desire to be heard. This statement is immensely meaningful as it emphasizes the importance of substance in writing, highlighting the distinction between writing for the sake of it and truly having something of value to convey.To delve deeper into this idea, let us explore an unexpected philosophical concept that aligns with Fitzgerald's quote: existentialism. Existentialism, in simple terms, is the philosophical viewpoint that emphasizes individual existence, freedom, and the search for meaning in life. Drawing parallels between existentialism and writing, we can argue that they both involve a constant struggle to find purpose and communicate it effectively.Existentialism primarily revolves around the notion that existence precedes essence. Similarly, in writing, the act of writing itself comes before the formulation of a profound message. One may begin writing without a clear idea or theme in mind but, through the act of writing itself, discover a meaningful message worth sharing. This process echoes Fitzgerald's assertion that writing is driven by the imperative to communicate something of substance rather than merely expressing oneself for the sake of it.Moreover, both existentialism and writing involve a sense of freedom and personal responsibility. Existentialism encourages individuals to take ownership of their lives, make their own choices, and create their own meaning. In a similar vein, writing requires authors to take responsibility for their words, thoughts, and ideas. Writers must carefully craft their messages and consider the impact their words may have on others. They possess a certain freedom in expressing themselves, yet they are also obligated to use their writing responsibly and ethically.Furthermore, existentialism emphasizes the significance of self-reflection and self-awareness. It urges individuals to critically examine their existence and contemplate the meaning of their actions. Similarly, writing often leads authors to introspection. Through writing, individuals can explore their thoughts, emotions, and experiences, gaining a deeper understanding of themselves and their place in the world. Writing serves as a tool for self-reflection, enabling authors to express their innermost thoughts and share their unique perspectives.While existentialism and writing draw parallel in their pursuit of meaning and self-expression, they also differ in some regards. Existentialism primarily focuses on individual experiences and finding personal meaning, whereas writing can transcend the individual to connect with a broader audience. Writing allows authors to share their perspectives, stories, and ideas with others, creating a dialogue and fostering connections. In this way, writing can serve as a bridge between individual existence and collective understanding, channeling the ideals of existentialism into a communal experience.In conclusion, F. Scott Fitzgerald's quote, "You don't write because you want to say something, you write because you have something to say," carries immense significance in the realm of purposeful writing. It emphasizes the necessity of substance and depth in writing, challenging individuals to go beyond the surface level of self-expression and convey something meaningful. By juxtaposing this quote with the principles of existentialism, we can further explore the complexities and philosophical implications of writing. Ultimately, both writing and existentialism share a common thread of seeking personal meaning, self-reflection, and the freedom to express oneself, fostering a deeper connection between the act of writing and the human experience.