Being truthful and authentic in writing comes with risk. Be truthful, but also be aware.

“If you intend to write as truthfully as you can, your days as a member of polite society are numbered, anyway.” (Stephen King, On Writing)

Publishing your thoughts is difficult. There is risk associated with this. But there is also a yearning to be truthful.

King’s comment illustrates this tradeoff. If you want to publish, understand the risks involved. When daily publishing is the goal, chances are good that you might say something that could offend someone. And being offended is just the tip of the iceberg. The actions that follow range anywhere from ignoring (if you have an audience) to censorship.

“In order to be able to think, you have to risk being offensive.” (Jordan Peterson, Interview with Cathy Newman)

Writing, to many, is thinking. It is for me at least. But I also want to be a member of polite society. How does one balance that? At some point, I imagine, you would have to favor one over the other. Not everyone agrees with your perspectives on life. And they have platforms with which they can voice their opposition to your perspectives.

Can you truly strive for “no unpublished thought”? Sure you can. Just understand the risks involved.

Writing, and publishing, is difficult on its own. Be honest with yourself. But understand the risks that honesty brings. Many accomplished writers today can attest to this dichotomy.

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