The Divine Calling of Every Writer
Every person created in this world carries a unique purpose and mission. According to the Book of Prophet Isaiah, the primary purpose of human existence is to glorify God (Isaiah 43:7). This glorification occurs when individuals fulfill the specific tasks assigned to them by the Creator.
Jesus Christ himself demonstrated this principle when he declared: "I have brought you glory on earth by finishing the work you gave me to do" (John 17:4). This biblical foundation reveals that every person, including writers, has a God-given assignment to complete during their lifetime.
The Social Responsibility of Writers
Writers are inherently social beings who do not exist or create solely for themselves. In their book Pagbasa at Pagsulat sa SULAYSAY (Reading and Writing the ESSAY, 1980), authors Ramos and Valeros emphasize that writers communicate a world of ideas to their readers.
Throughout literary history, writers have significantly influenced human thought and lifestyle patterns. Whether they realize it or not, writers bear responsibility not only for their intentions but also for their social role. A responsible writer, like a good citizen, has obligations to themselves, their nation, and all humanity.
The writer's primary responsibility is to uphold truth. During wartime, soldiers fight battles, but in peacetime, they help maintain order. Similarly, writers must champion truth during both war and peace so people don't live in ignorance of it.
Writers as Instruments of Joy and Truth
From early life, every person has the right to pursue happiness and security. Writers can help achieve these through their craft. By guiding people toward security, writers simultaneously find their own stability.
Indonesian writer Takdir Alisjabana rejected the notion of the artist as "a creature isolated from society." Instead, he believed that "the artist must fulfill their creative duty not only as an individual but as a leader of people in their struggle for life and freedom."
Modern writers who actively engage with their communities don't write merely for personal satisfaction. They reject the old belief of "art for art's sake" and recognize their broader social mission.
Historical figures like Socrates, Plato, Bunyan, Shaw, Confucius, Dante, Dickens, Rousseau, Tolstoy, and Rizal all understood their responsibility toward their fellow human beings. Some suffered greatly, and others died, so that their neighbors might live meaningfully and the world could become a happier dwelling place.
According to Thomas Uzzell in The Technique of the Novel (1964), "in the strictest sense, 'art for and by art alone' is impossible. If it is art, it is expression, and expression involves influencing others."
Writers who fail in their social responsibility resemble leaders who continue their work without regard for those they lead. If their writings harm rather than help society, they clearly fail in glorifying God—instead glorifying themselves rather than their Creator.
Ultimately, all people are responsible beings who will account for their actions. Writers cannot escape this accountability, making their divine calling both a privilege and a profound responsibility.
