We have the tools to write authentic, though-provoking, meaningful work. There’s never been a better time in our history to write from our hearts and publish it for the world to read.
Even better: we have the option to keep and maintain these words without the need for social media. It takes some work, but help is available in multiple forms. We don’t have to be shackled by the censorship of TikTok or the thievery of Instagram. We don’t need to swim in the cesspool of Twitter (I refuse to call it “X”) to get our point across and to make meaningful connections.
The personal essay matters now more than ever because we are in competition with those other forms of media. Short form video may be convenient and digestible, but it’s also fleeting. TikTok has altered the way people talk, especially while live. Even though Meta/Instagram has rolled back on the using public IG accounts for generative AI, there’s no stopping them from moving forward with their plan in the future. All of these factors are limiting, and counter-productive.
The personal essay matters now more than ever because it takes time to write. It takes effort to sort your thoughts, type out the words on the page, and decide if you made your point. Most of all: it takes creativity.
The personal essay matters now more than ever because it is authentic. Your voice, your opinion, your true expression is what needs to be put into words, and it needs to be what people read.
The final output may be imperfect, messy and rough around the edges… but it will authentic. This is what generative AI cannot do.
All of your efforts will be worth it. Making something from nothing but your brain power, your fingertips and your effort to put it out in the world is a very satisfying feeling.
This is why the personal essay matters now more than ever.
