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Tag: writing

Why Good Texts Sometimes Remain Empty

Written by Gabriele Ela Schellinger on . No Comments on Why Good Texts Sometimes Remain Empty

“There are texts that are clever, precise, and to the point—and yet they don’t move me,” says author Gabriele Ela Schellinger. That’s why she founded her literary company, ELA – Herz & Wort. In this article, she explains the longing for a different kind of language in our rather noisy world. Texts are more than just words. “In recent years, I’ve noticed something very clear—in what I read, in what is reflected back to me, and also in what people share with me after readings, while I’m writing, or in feedback on my books,” says Gabriele Ela Schellinger. Language has changed. It has become faster, more direct, and often harsher. Statements are made clearly, as are positions. Much of it is designed to be understood, categorized, and evaluated immediately. This has its place, and in many areas, that is exactly what is needed. And at the same time, something else is emerging: a palpable longing for a different form of language. Texts that straddle precision and a lack of connection I keep coming across texts that are really good. Intelligent, precise, well-thought-out—and yet they don’t resonate with me. Not because they’re lacking something, but because they leave no room for interpretation. They guide, they explain, they get to the heart of the matter, but they leave nothing open to interpretation. That’s exactly where the difference lies for me. What cannot be held onto Because there are things that can’t simply be summed up without losing their depth. Feelings are among them. Inner processes. Those subtle shifts that often become apparent only in hindsight—if at all. The more you try to define them, the further you sometimes drift from what actually defines them. Texts, that do not claim to be exhaustive… …and what emerges when you don’t explain everything. For me, this is precisely where a different kind of language begins. One that doesn’t explain everything right away. One that doesn’t have to be understood immediately. One that doesn’t aim to be self-contained. That is exactly what I work with in my writing. And I find that many people identify with it. Not necessarily because they understand everything, but because something within them is touched without it needing to be named. Not theory, but experience—moments that make a difference Second row, front left—a moment in itself. I still remember the reading clearly. A woman was sitting in the second row. As I read, I noticed out of the corner of my eye how she grew quieter and quieter.… weiterlesen

Combining Storytelling And Writing—Words Against Loneliness

Written by Heike Schmidt on . No Comments on Combining Storytelling And Writing—Words Against Loneliness

Loneliness is omnipresent today, even if hardly anyone talks about it. It affects not only older people, but all age groups. Many feel it quietly between appointments, chats, and to-do lists. We are constantly available, but less and less in real contact..
 Writing offers a way out of loneliness. Although the need for closeness and genuine exchange is great, meaningful conversations have become rare. Often, there is no space where people can simply talk without being judged or interrupted. This is exactly where storytelling and writing cafés come in: they create safe spaces where people can talk to each other—about life, about experiences, about what moves them. Talking is liberating—listening connects When people listen to each other, connections are formed. Storytelling organizes what is inside us—thoughts, memories, emotions. Words help to make the invisible visible. Those who tell stories share not only experiences, but also a piece of themselves. In such gatherings, a very special atmosphere often arises: honest, warm, and quiet at the same time. You can feel how stories build bridges—between strangers, between generations, between hearts. Listening becomes a form of affection. Not to comment or advise, but simply to be there. Those who are heard feel seen. And those who listen often recognize a part of themselves. The silent form of conversation Not everyone can immediately find the right words in conversation. Writing offers a different approach. It is quiet, personal, and yet liberating. It requires no audience, no form, and no rules. A sheet of paper and a pen are sufficient. When writing, thoughts can flow freely, unordered and raw. It is not about writing “correctly,” but about writing honestly. Writing things down can relieve, clarify, and sometimes heal. Writing often gives rise to a kind of inner dialogue—with ourselves, with what was or what is yet to come. And sometimes this reveals that we have come further than we thought. That we have mastered things, healed wounds, found ways forward. Writing can be a kind of inner tidying up. You let go of what weighs you down and make room for new things. Let go, organize, write freely Many people have forgotten how to write down their thoughts. Everyday life is loud, fast-paced, and digital. But it is precisely this speed that makes us long for a slower pace. Writing is a simple but effective way to achieve this. It forces us to pause for a moment and reflect on what is really going on inside us.… weiterlesen