Write2Ignite

A few weeks ago, a friend recommended I read Letters from Father Christmas by J.R.R Tolkien. The collection ended up being the perfect book to kick off the month of December.

The letters were not originally intended for such a wide audience as they have since delighted. They were written by Tolkien to his children, each year at Christmastime. The version of Letters from Father Christmas I read included pictures of the original notes–full of colorful, wobbly handwriting, comments from other characters scribbled in the margins, and sketches along the pages. Some of the letters simply wish the children a Merry Christmas and thank them for their messages. Many of them, however, tell the exciting narrative of life at the North Pole. Father Christmas describes humorous mishaps caused by the loveable North Polar Bear, and tells of battles between the elves and goblins.

This wholesome collection brings to life the legend of Father Christmas and gives us a glimpse of Tolkien as a father, weaving tales of wonder for his family.

The Joy of Storytelling

Often when I think of Tolkien, I picture him as the literary professor, creating stories full of their own lore and languages. Yet, reading through Letters from Father Christmas, I’m reminded of how much of Tolkien’s writing stemmed from being a father telling stories to his children. The Hobbit came from an ongoing bedtime story for his son. The letters in this book came from creating Christmas memories for his kids. When we look at these examples, we see a writer who clearly enjoys creating narratives for the pleasure it will bring his audience. He took great care in bringing Father Christmas to life through every detail of the letters– the handwriting, the paintings he sent, and even the doodles on the envelopes. His children must have lit up when they received their yearly letters.

As writers, it’s easy for us to get lost in learning the craft. There are so many technical aspects for us to learn, so many skills to develop. We practice showing vs telling, read books on worldbuilding, and go to critique groups to get feedback on our progress. All of these things matter. However, in the midst of our learning, we have to be careful to not lose the simple joy of storytelling. 

Capturing the Joy

Finding joy in writing gives our work vibrancy. Joy dances in the playfulness of trying out new forms. It lingers in the wonder of our imaginations as they race through rabbit holes. It rests in the contagious humor that comes from letting ourselves laugh as we write. Most of all, joy makes its home in the memories and connections we create with our tales.

Our silliest bits of writing can spark our most creative ideas, because we give ourselves room to experiment.  Our most heartfelt stories often come from the inspiration of the people we love and the topics we hold dear. When we create from the delight of ideas and the fullness of relationships, the joy we spark carries through to our audience.

Writing is hard work. At the same time, though, it’s a pleasure. It’s fun to create worlds, to tell stories that make others laugh, and to write in different voices. ​Most of all, storytelling offers us the chance to connect. Every tale we tell gives us the chance to create memories with our readers (and with the children we write our books for). What greater joy can there be than in sharing a moment of comfort and laughter with someone else?

As we embark on the busy holiday season, I hope you have some quiet moments to share in the simple joy of storytelling, whether written stories or simply memories shared with your loved ones.

Merry Christmas and lots of love to you all!