In response to a general poser by Subash Raman in Sulekha:

WHY DOES ONE WRITE? AND WHY IN SULEKHA?

Why do I write? And why in Sulekha?

Do I even qualify to answer these questions? I just have one published article to my credit and I am not what you call a CH "regular" either. Still, I think I can venture an answer here. And that *is* one of the reasons why I write in Sulekha, Subash: the fraternity that I find here in Sulekha. Responses, both supporting and opposing, are encouraging one to write further, and, what is more, helping one improve oneself. At worst, one can expect silence for a response (notwithstanding some occasional acrimonies here and there) and, hey, that is fine with me.

Secondly, though I don't write much here, I read a lot here, at least a handful of contributors in particular with interest and awe. So, that makes me a participant. So I *feel* like discussing my opinions when I am up to it.

Having answered your second question first, let me now try answering your first poser: why does one write? I write because I want to share something that affects me in some way or the other, with like minded comrades out there. Unlike some people here who said they are kind of lonely, I *am* a talkative person, but still, writing helps me express myself more coherently (allow me the right to imagine!), organize and articulate my ideas in such a way that I begin to know myself first, if you know what I mean. And, in the process, I like to believe that my language and communication skills improve as well -- but that is secondary. I have not written much in Tamil and it is far less in English, but still I am beginning to see how writing helps me in my efforts to evolve.

Subramanya Bharathi once boldly declares to Shakti that she could not fell him down as she would other ordinary folks.* Don't think I am placing myself even remotely close to Bharathi, but so much inspired by him that I am, taking my cue from him, I would not like to fall as a piece of garbage either. And writing could be a weapon I am wielding for fighting my case. Also -- I would again bring Bharathi to my help -- I don't want to die a Veena, complacent in hearing all my music myself alone.

Let this world also face some of my music! :))

Govardhanan.

* This is the couplet that appears at my home page

The original message as it appeared on Sulekha