The Universal Joy of Sharing Talent
A soccer player feels joy at scoring a goal.
A chef feels joy when a critic enjoys their food.
A student feels joy when the teacher uses their work as an example.
An actor feels joy when their movie hits the big screen.
This is a universal truth: people experience joy when their talents are shared with others. So what makes a writer overflow with happiness? Why, when they publish, of course!
Why Publishing Matters for Writers
Writing can be a lonely endeavor. Hours spent composing. More hours spent editing and revising. And then, often, nothing. When writing for school, we submit our work to a teacher who sends it back with a grade. Sometimes, when we write for pleasure, the finished work is tucked away in a drawer.
But this cheats writers of the true joy of publishing.
How Teachers and Parents Can Encourage Publishing
Some teachers have implemented publishing parties, where the class reads work aloud or creates a book of student work. Literary magazines and self-publishing have also flourished. A writer’s work is meant to be shared through publication.
Parents and teachers can encourage students to:
- Share stories, poems, or essays with classmates or family
- Create a class anthology or small printed book
- Post work safely on a classroom blog or website
- Celebrate the completion of a polished piece
Publishing gives students a real audience and a sense of accomplishment that grading alone cannot provide.
Experience the Joy of Publishing
The next time your student writes something, encourage them to publish—whether through reading aloud, submitting to a magazine, or sharing with family. Experiencing the joy of publishing reinforces confidence, creativity, and a lasting love for writing.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the joy of publishing?
The joy of publishing is the pride and satisfaction students feel when sharing their writing with an audience beyond their teacher or classroom.
How does publishing improve writing skills?
Publishing encourages revision, careful editing, attention to detail, and pride in presentation, strengthening writing across all genres.
Can students safely publish online?
Yes. With proper supervision and privacy settings, students can share work on blogs, classroom websites, or school platforms safely.
How can parents support publishing at home?
Parents can display work, encourage sharing with family or classmates, and celebrate both the process and the final product.