Writing, Memories, and New Knowledge: A Journey of Self-Discovery

 

Writing Brings Back Memories and New Knowledge: A Journey of Self-Discovery

By Janpha Thadphoothon

Have you ever experienced a memory flooding back while scribbling away in your journal? Or felt a sense of calm descend as you weave words into a story? Writing, in the beautiful and versatile language of English, offers a treasure trove of benefits beyond simply acquiring grammar and vocabulary. It acts as a bridge connecting us to our past selves, unearthing forgotten memories, and fostering a space for healing.

This very act of putting pen to paper (or fingers to keyboard) becomes a therapeutic journey, allowing us to explore the depths of our emotions and gain a deeper understanding of who we are.

Image: Gemini

Writing has long been considered a powerful tool for self-exploration. It allows us to delve into the depths of our thoughts and feelings, piecing together the puzzle of who we are.  As the wisdom of various authors suggests:

Connection Through Words: Ralph Waldo Emerson reminds us, "The only way to have a friend is to be one." This philosophy extends to writing. By sharing our experiences and emotions on the page, we connect with readers who find resonance in our words, fostering a sense of community and shared understanding.

The Penetrating Power of Language:  Poet Ezra Pound emphasizes this in his quote, "Words can be like X-rays if you use them properly -- they'll go through anything. You read and you're pierced."  Writing, when wielded skillfully, can pierce through superficiality and convey profound truths and emotions that resonate deeply with readers.

The Universal Urge to Express:  Lebanese poet Khalil Gibran captures this in his saying, "The man who does not write his own poems is an anomaly." While not limited to poetry specifically, Gibran suggests that writing is a natural human desire to capture our thoughts and experiences, a way to leave our mark on the world.

Self-Discovery Through the Written Word:  American novelist Joan Didion delves into this introspective power in her quote, "I write entirely to find out what I'm thinking, what I'm looking at, what I see, and what it means."  The act of writing itself can be a process of self-discovery, helping us understand ourselves on a deeper level.

Passion Fuels Powerful Writing:  Writing instructor Brenda Ueland highlights this in her quote, "You have to write the book that wants to be written. And if the book will be written well enough other people will want to read it."  When we write from a place of genuine interest and inspiration, our work resonates more powerfully with readers.

These quotes, along with countless others, illustrate the multifaceted power of writing. It's a tool for self-exploration, connection, and leaving a lasting impression on the world. Just like revisiting a cherished book or losing yourself in a captivating melody, writing unlocks a similar door to the treasure chest of our memories. The rhythmic flow of putting words together can trigger a cascade of long-forgotten experiences. A familiar phrase might transport you back to a childhood classroom, the scent of old paper evoking a memory of writing a heartfelt letter to a long-lost friend.

The act of writing itself becomes a catalyst for memory retrieval. As we delve into a specific topic or recount a personal experience, our brains are prompted to make connections and unearth details we may not have consciously recalled in years. Perhaps it's the descriptive power of language that jogs our memory. As we strive to paint a vivid picture with words, details long dormant come alive. The color of your grandmother's dress, the playful banter with a childhood friend, the nervous excitement before your first school performance - these details, seemingly lost to time, resurface with surprising clarity.

This process of memory retrieval through writing is not just a nostalgic exercise. It offers a valuable opportunity for healing. Journaling, for instance, allows us to express emotions we may struggle to articulate verbally. Bottled-up feelings of frustration, sadness, or even joy find release on the page. By confronting these emotions head-on, we begin to understand them better and healthily process them.

Writing can also be a powerful tool for self-reflection. As we explore our past experiences and emotions, we gain a deeper understanding of ourselves. We recognize patterns in our behavior, identify our strengths and weaknesses, and gain valuable insights into our personal growth. This self-discovery empowers us to make conscious choices for the future and navigate life's challenges with greater clarity.

The benefits of writing in English extend far beyond the personal realm. The English language, with its rich vocabulary and diverse writing styles, offers a platform for global communication and connection. Whether you're expressing yourself creatively through poetry or prose, or crafting factual reports and informative articles, the power of language transcends geographical and cultural barriers.

The therapeutic and personal aspects of writing are often overlooked when discussing its importance. However, putting pen to paper (or fingers to keyboard) offers a unique opportunity for self-exploration, memory retrieval, and emotional release. Here are a few ways to tap into the therapeutic power of writing in English:

• Journaling: Dedicate some time each day, or even weekly, to simply writing in your journal. Jot down your thoughts, feelings, dreams, or anxieties without judgment. This free-flowing expression allows you to explore the depths of your emotions and gain valuable self-awareness.
• Creative Writing: Explore the world of fiction through short stories, poems, or scripts. As you weave a narrative, you tap into your imagination and explore emotions in a safe and creative space. You might be surprised by the personal insights that emerge through your characters and their stories.
• Memoir Writing: Delve into your past experiences and document your life story. This process can be incredibly therapeutic, allowing you to revisit and process significant events, relationships, and milestones. Sharing your story with others can also be a powerful way to connect and inspire.
• Blogging: Share your thoughts, experiences, and expertise with the world through blogging. This platform allows you to connect with a global audience and engage in meaningful online conversations. Writing for others can be incredibly fulfilling, offering a sense of purpose and community.

Remember, there's no right or wrong way to write. The key is to embrace the process and allow yourself to freely express your thoughts and emotions. Whether you write in a formal style or a more casual, conversational tone, the benefits remain the same.

So, the next time you feel a wave of inspiration or the need to sort through your emotions, grab a pen and paper (or open your laptop) and let the magic of writing unfold. You might be surprised by the memories you unearth, the emotions you release, and the deeper understanding you gain about yourself. The journey of writing in English isn't just about acquiring knowledge – it's about embarking on a profound adventure of self-discovery and healing.

Janpha Thadphoothon is an assistant professor of ELT at the International College, Dhurakij Pundit University in Bangkok, Thailand.