Curiosity May Kill The Cat But it Feeds The Writer

A cat looking curiously around a corner at the camera

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Only the curious will learn and only the resolute overcome the obstacles to learning.

- Eugene S. Wilson

For the writer it can truly be said that the world is at our doorstep. The topics available to write about are limited only by the depths of our imaginations, from the latest developments in the toothpaste world to an alien inhabited planet at the farthest end of our Galaxy. Words can inspire us to great heights or haunt our memories, they can make us scream in joy or howl in floods of tears. Thus is the power of the word smith.

Why is it then that we struggle to find things to write about? Why do we speak of the evil, multi-faceted form that is writer’s block? But more importantly how do we fight back? Enter curiosity.

A lot of writers speak of the pen being mightier than the sword, some prefer them over guns, yet others equip their toolbelts with, well all sorts. Sure they have a point – or should that be a nib – but our true weapon of choice should be curiosity.

Curiosity leads to expanded borders, widens knowledge and opens doors for opportunities. We all think we’re unique and we are, just like everyone else, but let’s face it there is an inherent loneliness in that realisation. Which brings me to the key point about curiosity, if you are curious about something you can be guaranteed someone else is.

Think about the last time something piqued your interest, bet you Googled it right? What did you find? Hopefully the answers you were looking for. While you were busy with your research however, did you notice how many sites were out there? Did you also consider that you are a writer and that you now have a new-found knowledge? Knowledge that perhaps one of those pre-existing publications would pay you for…

So why not pitch them an article or a blog post? A good starting point would be to answer the following: Why were you curious, what were you looking for, what have you found.

Seize the moment of excited curiosity on any subject to solve your doubts; for if you let it pass, the desire may never return, and you may remain in ignorance.

- William Wirt (U.S Politician 1772 – 1834)

…and penniless.