Dilemmas of a Writer: Perfection

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There’s always a constant nagging feeling inside me that my writing is never good enough and it irks me. Sure, I am a perfectionist. That tendency is innate. But I think writers experience this in varying degrees. From an obsession with perfect grammar to the need for a logical flow in the narrative to having symmetry in form.

I would go so far to say that this need for perfection goes beyond the realm of art and literature. Perfection is something that we all long to achieve I think. Not just as writers or artists, but as human beings. I think that is pretty much rooted in our history and identity as humanity.

The Root

The Bible tells us the story of creation and how God made all things good. When He made man, both male and female, He regarded them as very good.

In a nutshell, I think the fact that man was made to be in constant fellowship with God is the reason why we have this deep desire for perfection. And the moment man was separated from God, who is perfection Himself, is what brought us into a continuous search for perfection.

The problem is that we tend to look for perfection in the wrong places. We try to acquire as much skill, knowledge, wealth, or experience so that we can attain our idea of perfection.

Sure, God designed everything perfectly. And looking at them, we see how intricately specific and uniquely functional things are. There is no denying that everything we see in the universe is intelligently designed. But that’s the thing. We end our quest for perfection in the design. We don’t seek the designer. Anyway, that is a subject for another article.

The Writer's Urge

Going back to a writer’s urge for perfection. I think not being satisfied with your work is a good thing up to a certain point. It just means that there is still room for improvement.

As I mentioned before, a writer usually has the urge to make their work as good as it can be. Perhaps there’s a better word to describe something. Or there could be a better way of expressing an idea. This might cause you some discomfort or agony. Obviously, we can’t really attain perfection. Having flaws is the essence to our human nature. Especially after the fall. It’s a struggle but it can definitely help.

When you are thinking of ways to make your work more presentable, more refined, or more understandable, then hold on to that feeling of resentment for your work. Never settle for something that you know could be better.

Resolution

But when it comes to a point where you no longer find fulfillment in what you do, stop. When you begin to resent yourself or your passion, stop and take a breather. Maybe the reason why this perfectionist attitude hinders you is because you’re living in a fantasy.

Observe the world outside. Look at the small imperfections and how insignificant they are in the grand scheme of things. Look at the mirror and see reality. However, don’t be limited with what reality shows you.

There’s nothing wrong with trying to make something the best that it can be. But remember that nothing is perfect in this imperfect world. Leave that to God and His work.