If you know a writer or are a writer, you know we have a reputation for being weird, maybe a bit reclusive, and caffeine addicted. Writers are beloved by readers, though for the characters, plotting, and setting but mostly because we can tell one heck of a story. Our work is analyzed, criticized, and cherished. It’s a complicated reputation.

But why are writers viewed as weird? Don’t get me wrong, I know I’m weird. I’ve researched how to store blood for vampire fiction, how many bones you can break for a doctor character, and even about electrocution for torture purposes. No sane person researches these things, I’m certain. And writers often talk about our characters like they are real people. You may have seen this quote:

Many people hear voices when no one is there. Some of them are called mad and are shut up in rooms where they stare…