Self-analysis is Masturbation
Every attempt at impartial criticism devolves into incessant ego-stroking fodder and the mere act screams “narcissism”. So rather than attempt to list strengths and weaknesses in my writing I will instead offer analysis of the writer in general and in doing so aspire to adequately critique myself. Since enlightenment is often obtained from foggy, illogical progressions, it seems only apt that I begin in a similar fashion. Novelist E.L. Doctorow put it best when he said, “writing is a socially acceptable form of schizophrenia”.
The writer is secondary to the work, enjoying relative anonymity in the stories they tell. Even first person writing is partially immune from reproach because the flow of communication is essentially one way. There must be, however, an inherent selflessness that couples each writer’s willful submission of thought. Like the architect who hands over his plans to the city planner for approval then to the contractor for construction, the writer is also forced to relinquish sole ownership of his thoughts. From this grows the divine responsibility of the writer to his audience to engage them in some unseen, unexpected way. In other words, it is not the destination that is important but the path by which we are lead.
Like any journey there must first be a desire to depart. The writer is tasked with offering invitation into places we may otherwise not go. It is through this initial act of persuasion that the writer is able to connect with the reader and ultimately deliver the message. Delivery is, however, only the first leg of an ongoing journey. It is the longevity of the message that determines its relevance and in order for it to continue beyond the brief moments of initial comprehension, a certain catharsis must take place.
Literature is meant to speak to each of us in unique and often illusive ways and there can be no programmed response to even the greatest of literary masterpieces. Our pop collective is riddled with superficial sound bites; condensed quick-fixes to complex problems, 8-minute atomic ab workouts, cliff notes. All produced, packaged, and marketed by folding table charlatans with patented-ailment-eliminating-elixirs that ultimately rob us of the joy of discovery. It is through the insightful exploration of subjects that the reader is coaxed to return and the writer is given the freedom to speak again. If our eyes are windows to the soul then it is through the written word that we are afforded unlimited access therein. Once inside, we may take whatever we need, leave behind that which is no longer necessary and ultimately walk away enriched.
Joseph S Mannino
Mannino Acid 