In this book of essays, over 40 successful writers in varied fields --poetry, science, the performing and visual arts, psychoanalysis, journalism, literature and more-- explore what drives them to write, and to work at their craft.In contributions arranged under three headings-- "Models and Mentors," "Urges and Traumas," and "Evidence and Experiences"--each writer explores their personal understanding of writing as a psychological necessity. In varying ways, these candid, often emotional essays reveal a range of intimate, mysterious and unpredictable purposes and motivations.Driven to Write provides fresh, practical, and imaginative approaches to literary art for aspiring and established writers alike.