Why I Write by Steven Raichlen

http://www.publishersweekly.com/pw/by-topic/authors/why-i-write/article/42247-why-i-write--steven-raichlen.html

In this essay, Raichlen explains that through writing cook books and food reviews, he is able to understand cultures better. With his use of writing, he is able to enjoy a good meal, put down his thoughts on paper, and make a living out of it. He is interested in cultures around the world, and with writing he is able to explore them. He states, "What matters even more to me than the authenticity of the recipes (and that matters a lot) is the story the recipes tell--about people, places, cultures, and who we are as a species and where we fit in the world." With writing, Raichlen is able to find a story in a recipe.


While reading this essay, my eyes opened to other reasons why people write. To me, writing is just persuasive essays, novels, and memoirs. However, there is many more forms of writing. Like Raichlen stated, his recipes tell a story. This essay helped me realize that every form of writing tells a story and has a purpose behind it. Every piece of writing has a purpose and an audience, whether it be an audience or this very blog. While every author's reason for writing varies, each one has the two factors of a purpose and audience in common.