There are many reasons why people choose to write. Dreams of wealth, hopes of fame, an irresistible urge. Many of us write because we hope to make a difference.
History is replete with novels which have changed social conditions. When Harriet Beecher Stowe wrote "Uncle Tom's Cabin," Lincoln introduced her as "the little woman who started this big war." "To Kill a Mockingbird" highlighted racial prejudice. "The Jungle" changed the way America slaughtered meat.
Money and fame would be nice. But the best reason I can think of for writing is to make an impact and change hearts and minds. There are plenty of issues to write about. The current crisis in the Middle East is fertile ground. So are continuing racism, poverty, pollution, abuse--the list is endless.
I believe writers have an obligation to society. If the pen is indeed mightier than the sword, then we need to arm ourselves and get to work.
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