Writing as Thinking: Why We Should All Take a Page from George Orwell

"If people cannot write well, they cannot think well, and if they cannot think well, others will do their thinking for them." George Orwell

These words by George Orwell are powerful because they speak to the power of writing in shaping our thoughts and opinions. But why does writing have this power? I mean, in its essence, all writing is simply ink on paper. Why do we give writing so much latitude and strength?

Read on and explore the relationship between writing and critical thinking and why it matters more than ever.

Writing encourages dialogue and critical thinking

In a world where fake news is becoming more and more common, it's more important than ever that we all learn to think more critically.

We need to be able to question the information that we're presented with and to look at it from multiple angles. Only then can we start to get closer to the truth. When folks write, they must consider every aspect of an argument and think critically about it from all angles before forming a conclusion.

It's the basis for reasoned discourse between two or more people who can disagree without resorting to personal attacks or ad hominem arguments.

Writing also helps us develop our own worldviews on essential topics like politics, religion, science, culture, and societal issues

As we take the time to research, analyze and reflect on these topics through writing—be it in a blog post or an essay—we can form more nuanced opinions based on evidence rather than unfounded beliefs or assumptions.

Moreover, when we write down our thoughts in a tangible way, we can look back at those writings later and assess how our views have changed over time. This process is invaluable for self-growth as it allows us to evaluate what we once thought versus what we believe now.

It also encourages us to challenge our own views and further develop them.

We all need to be more honest in what we write

In an age where we are constantly bombarded with information, it is more important than ever, to be honest in what we write.

With so much noise and so many distractions, it is easy to get lost in the shuffle and end up writing something that is not true. As Orwell once said, "The great enemy of clear language is insincerity." If we want our writing to matter, we must be more honest.

If that's the case, then writing can be a helpful way to clarify your thoughts and ideas.

When you write, you are forced to organize your thoughts logically and express them in a way that makes sense to others. This process of thinking through your ideas can help you to better understand and remember them.

Writing is also a way of connecting with people around you

Whether you engage in conversation with someone who shares your views or challenges yourself by engaging with someone who has different perspectives than yours, writing provides a platform for meaningful dialogue amongst individuals from diverse backgrounds or experiences.

Through this connection comes understanding—and understanding leads to progress in any field of life that requires collaboration between two parties, including business relationships or political negotiations. And what a beautiful thing that is. The connections we make in real life or in virtual life help us tap into each other's experiences and better understand our surroundings.

Writing helps create an atmosphere of understanding, which leads to more meaningful conversations and interactions between people.

The final word

In short, George Orwell was right—writing matters because it stimulates thoughtful conversations that drive progress forward across multiple fields of life.

We should all strive to practice creative writing regularly, if not professionally, so that our minds stay sharpened with new ideas and insights into various topics around us. Doing so may even help us better understand ourselves while helping bridge the gap between people with different backgrounds or experiences.

And, as always, think critically about where those words might lead you.

Join our merry band of introverted writers for the creators who are tired of playing by the same old boring writing rules. (We create our own).