I Started Writing

# Summary

Juliet Altmann began writing as a therapeutic outlet to cope with sleepless nights, heartache, and the desire to emulate great writers, among other personal reasons.

# Abstract

Juliet Altmann's journey into writing was multifaceted and deeply personal. It served as a coping mechanism during bouts of insomnia and heartbreak, and as a creative response to reading influential authors. Writing became a means of self-expression, a way to articulate feelings, and a path to healing and self-discovery. It was also a practical requirement in school and a necessity for crafting song lyrics. Altmann acknowledges the privilege of being taught how to write and expresses that the act of writing has been transformative and integral to her life.

# Opinions

- Writing was a form of therapy during sleepless nights and emotional distress.
- Altmann was inspired by great writers to pursue writing as a path to greatness.
- Writing provided a sense of belonging and self-identification during times of feeling like an outsider.
- The ability to write was perceived as a gift, and the skill was something to be grateful for.
- The act of writing was a crucial tool for personal expression and emotional healing.
- Writing was a way to communicate when speaking was difficult or impossible.
- Altmann views her writing as a significant contribution to her well-being and cannot imagine her life without it.

I Started Writing

I started writing because I was up at night and could not sleep.

I started writing because my heart was broken and I was sick of weeping.

I started writing because I read great writers and I wanted to be great too.

I started writing because I was in school and in order to pass I had to.

I started writing because I needed lyrics to go with my songs.

I started writing because I felt like an outsider and like I didn’t belong.

I started writing because I wanted to find the words to describe the feeling.

I started writing because I was at rock bottom and desperate for healing.

I started writing when I couldn’t seem to speak, let alone ask for help.

I started writing when I realized that I had something to offer myself.

I started writing because I could, I was lucky enough to be taught.

I don’t know what would’ve happened if I didn’t start writing but I can’t even stomach the thought.