Becoming a Better Literary Citizen: Unpacking Gandhi's Wisdom in the Book World
Do you ever feel like your actions don’t really matter in the grand scheme of things?
In a world filled with chaos and noise, it’s easy to wonder if anyone cares or will even notice our efforts. I’ll admit, I’ve had those moments too (plenty). But life has a way of reminding me that my actions do matter, even if I can’t always see the immediate impact.
As Gandhi wisely said, “Whatever you do will be insignificant, but it’s very important that you do it.”
This is powerful advice, especially when it comes to being a part of the book world.
If I may, here’s my spin on Gandhi’s statement: I believe that what we do may feel or seem insignificant to us and others, but it’s vital that we do it. But remember, feelings are not always facts. In a world cluttered with mixed and sometimes damaging messages, it’s crucial to act in service to what we love. We need to use our voices and share our truths.
I want to unpack what this advice from Gandhi can teach us about being good literary citizens.
What is a literary citizen?
If you’re a reader, writer, book distributor, or teacher of writers, readers, or book distributors, then you’re a literary citizen. You belong in and are a part of the world of books—just like me—and it’s our responsibility to ensure that the system remains healthy, balanced, and strong. By doing so, we pave the way for current and future generations to enjoy the benefits of reading, writing, and sharing stories.
Why does this matter?
Because stories make the world go around, they connect us to one another. They give us what we need: knowledge, hope, thrills, adventure, escape, mystery, love, and, above all, empathy and compassion (for ourselves and others.)
“Everything is held together with stories. That is all that is holding us together, stories and compassion.” – Barry Lopez.
Regardless of whether you identify as a reader, writer, or book distributor, each of us bears a responsibility to care for the book world. Sometimes, we don’t get to see the ripple effect of our efforts; sometimes, we do. But participating in a positive way is one of the few things we can control.
I’ll be honest—I haven’t always been the best literary citizen. When I was younger, I didn’t grasp the fact that I was a part of something much bigger than myself. Despite being an avid reader and a wannabe writer, I viewed writers as mystical creatures endowed with powers and talents I thought I could never possess. Back then, I was too busy comparing myself, looking down at my shoes, and convincing myself that I didn’t belong.
But here’s what I’ve come to understand: Writers are just humans who have an insatiable drive to make sense of the world within and around them. They are filled with hopes, fears, flaws, and failures—just like everyone else. Becoming a writer isn’t something you’re born with; it’s a journey of self-discovery that can happen at any stage of life.
As the great Maya Angelou once said, “When we know better, we do better.” Now that I know better, I’m committed to doing better and seeing where I fall short. I firmly believe that we have the power to inspire one another to grow and change for the better. After all, I wouldn’t be here—literally, on this planet—if someone hadn’t shown me a different way to live.
Now I understand what it takes to be a writer. It’s not about talent; it’s about endurance fueled by passion and a whopping side of courage.
Let’s recognize that and the amazing stories we have in the world. Put that gratitude into action!
But let’s be real, though. I say all that, and I have great intentions. I’m sure you do, too. My problem is follow through. I plan to review the book I’m reading when I’m done, but then I forget! It’s happened so many times in the past year. I say this with a face full of cringe because I’ve read a lot of books.
But hey, harping on the past won’t change it or move any needles, so onward, right?
How can we do a little better?
How can we engage in meaningful ways to preserve and improve this world that we love?
So, writer, how is your literary citizenship? What are your thoughts on the subject?
Can we become better literary citizens together? I know so!
Ideas to Become Better Literary Citizens:
📚Recommend books you love to others
📚Celebrate each other! Shout about others’ success. A win is a win is a win for us all.
📚Write respectful reviews
📚Respect the effort even if you don’t like the book.
📚Follow and respectfully engage with other writers/authors on SM platforms
📚Join writers’/authors’ newsletters
📚Join a writing community and be a part of it
📚Donate your time to the community
📚Mentor another writer if you’re in a position to do so. Share your knowledge with others! Pay it forward.
📚Join a book club or start one
📚For traditional publishing, learn the query process and how to query with respect
📚Buy your books for your children
📚Support local independent bookstores or online with Bookshop.org
📚Talk with folks who distribute books and thank them for their service. Ask questions and learn about their work
📚Support your local library
📚Attend author readings!
Remember, trying to do all the things is a recipe for doing nothing! My advice: pick one thing that will fit into your life. It’s enough
Here’s to a brighter writing and reading future for all of us!
