Every writer hears it sooner or later.

“Why this book?”

“Why that genre?”

“Why not write something lighter…or more marketable…or more useful?”

Sometimes the questions come from well-meaning readers. Sometimes from fellow writers. Sometimes from people who haven’t read a single page but feel oddly compelled to weigh in anyway.

I didn’t always know how to handle those questions.

My first critique group was led by a very opinionated and strict leader. Whenever someone tried to explain or defend their work, he’d raise his hand and say, “Sorry. I have to stop you right there. Good writing speaks for itself. If you have to explain your story, you’ve failed.”

At the time, that stung. But years later, I understand what he was really teaching us: listen more than you speak. Trust your work. Let your story stand on its own.

That lesson is probably why I find it challenging when people question why I write the novels I do.

“The genre you’re writing in is too dark,” someone said recently. “Why not try fantasy again? Another suggested, “Why not historical fiction or children’s books? At least then you’d be adding value.” And someone else remarked, “I like your second book better. Maybe go back to writing more setting descriptions like you did in that one.”

Most of the time, I smile, nod, and thank them for their thoughts.

And if I’m being honest, for a brief moment, their words sometimes get to me. I reconsider the book I’m working on. I second-guess the ones I’ve already published.

But then I pause, and I remember something important.

I know why I write my stories.

I make a point of understanding that why early in the writing process, because it becomes my anchor. It keeps me grounded when the draft gets messy, the feedback gets noisy, or doubt creeps in.

Knowing my why:

1. Keeps me from getting lost halfway through my novel
2. Shapes my story’s tone, theme, and genre
3. Helps me make tough editing decisions
4. Clarifies who the book is really for
5. Strengthens my voice on the page
6. And carries me through the long, difficult middle

So when someone questions my choices, they can’t derail me for long. They might momentarily knock me off balance, but my why brings me back.

I steady myself. I regroup.

And I keep doing the thing I love most.

I write.

Thanks for reading. If his resonated with you, I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments.