Why Writers Should Ask “Why” Before Writing a Novel
Before a writer sketches an outline, builds a character profile, or writes the first sentence, there’s a question worth pausing to ask: Why am I writing this novel?
Most of the time, I write for fun. I never think about the why. But I keep coming across the idea that before we begin, we should explore this question. Here are three writers who have something to say about the “why” of writing a novel.
- Savannah Gilbo
“What most new writers don’t realize is that identifying your core motivation is more than just a feel-good exercise—it’s the foundation that will inform everything from your writing schedule to how you approach challenges.
Without a clear “why,” you’re much more likely to abandon your project when obstacles arise.” Read more about Gilbo’s thoughts on the subject here. - Marissa Meyer
“Write down why you are choosing this idea . . . Trust me. Knowing your why is going to come in handy when you hit your book’s Murky Middle.”
Meyer shares this and other aspects of her writing life in her new book The Happy Writer. - Chris Baty
“What, to you, makes a good novel? It’s an excruciatingly broad question, but give it a shot. And feel free to be as vague or as nerdily detailed as you like; this list can include anything from ultrashort chapters to ribald sex scenes to massive infusions of ill-tempered elves.”
Baty calls this a Magna Carta. He also encourages the writer to make another list of all the things that bore you in a novel. Read more about it in his book, No Plot? No Problem.
Asking “Why” anchors the journey
Writing a novel is a marathon, not a sprint. Somewhere between the bright spark of inspiration and the grind of revision, every writer encounters fatigue, self-doubt, or the temptation to quit. This is when the “why” becomes a lifeline.
By rooting your project in purpose (Gilbo), choosing an idea that matters to you (Meyer), and understanding what you love and dislike in stories (Baty), you give yourself clarity and stamina. So before you begin your next project, sit down with a notebook and ask: Why this story? Why now? Why me?
Because when you know your “why,” you’re already halfway to “The End.”
Friday’s Findings
- Escape Generic Storytelling by Asking “Why?”
- Why Are You Writing This Story?
- Why Write This Book?
- Why Do You Want to Write Your Book?
- 4 Must-Ask Questions Before You Start Your Novel
Andrew M. Friday 
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