In honor of Memorial Day, I would like to take a moment to remember the authors throughout time who risked their lives - and their sanity in some instances - to challenge the powers that be armed only with the written word.
Writing is not an easy profession. We choose to put words to paper because we have something to say. Sometimes those words aren't popular with the status quo and the reward for speaking the truth can be punishment - or in the case of Salman Rushdie, a fatwa for committing "intellectual terrorism."
The world can be a difficult place for writers who dare to make a difference. I know I usually talk about the power that your fellow writers can make as a small group dedicated to your publishing success. But sometimes literature needs a coordinated support network.
PEN, the association of writers working to advance literature, defend free expression and foster international literary fellowship, works to defend the rights of writers all over the world.
You can help the journalists currently suffering in prisons or under threat of death for telling the truth by visiting the PEN site. Become a member, sign a petition and get on the Rapid Action Network list to keep informed of the challenges facing writers today.
I always say, never write alone. Let's take a moment to honor the legacy authors have left so we are free to write what and how we want by making a commitment to speak out for those who don't have that freedom. They are not alone as long as they are in our thoughts and actions.
Keep writing. You owe it to your literary ancestors.
Yours in Writing,
Promptmasters
Jennifer Sander and JT Long
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