Reasons Writing What You Love Works

As I write this, I have about a dozen books with my name on them and I love them all. I love some more than others. The titles I like most are the ones with subjects I enjoy writing about. The stories with an underlying theme or issue that's close to my heart. And I found I get thoughtful, more positive responses from readers when I write what I love. Below are some reasons why writing what you love can create better, more fulfilling writing.

1. It's easier to write what you're passionate about.

If you're passionate about marriage equality, if you have something to say about single parenting, or perhaps you're an animal activist and enjoy writing stories about similar characters, chances are you'll be able to easily get your story onto paper or screen.

Ways to incorporate your passion into your story are:

• Through conflict: Making your passion a critical part of the story (major conflict), a character's decision or battle (inner conflict), a character's past (backstory), etc.
• Dialogue: Several characters can debate about the subject.
• A character's belief on the subject: The subject is a major part of the character's upbringing or backstory that he's forced to explore and by the end has transformed.  

2. You're knowledgeable about the subject or are more willing to learn about the subject.

When you write what you love, you tend to know plenty about the subject and therefore are a sort of expert in that regard. Your knowledge will come in handy for crafting a true to life story and believable characters. If you aren't an expert on the subject, your love for that subject will persuade you to learn more about it. Or at least make research fun instead of daunting!

3. You put more effort into your project.

I find when I believe in the overall message of my story I spend an insane amount of time perfecting it. Enough is never enough when it comes to a project you really care about. You put your heart into creating the absolute best. You agonize over every minute detail.  You have to get it right.

4. You convey your passion and/or message to readers better.

You immerse yourself in your passion, it seems fitting to eagerly share what you've learned, and your desire shines through effortlessly. Almost like telling someone about the first time you rode a roller coaster or witnessed something truly amazing, you're delivery is engaging. When you write what you love, what you're passionate about, the reader could tell too. You help them understand why the subject is important to the writer, the characters, the plot, etc. Plus, you have fun writing it!

As a writer, are there other reasons you think writing what you love works? As a reader, do you think a writer's passion for a specific content, subject, or theme makes for better reading?