"If there's a book that you want to read, but it hasn't been written yet, then you must write it." — Toni Morrison

The Unwritten Book: Why You Must Write the Story Only You Can Tell

Toni Morrison’s powerful words, "If there's a book that you want to read, but it hasn't been written yet, then you must write it," inspire both aspiring and seasoned writers to recognize their unique role in shaping literature. These words challenge us to stop waiting for someone else to tell the story that lives inside us. Instead, Morrison encourages us to be the ones to bring that story into the world. If there’s a story you long to read, one that resonates with your experience, your imagination, or your view of the world, then perhaps it’s your responsibility to write it.

Why Your Story Matters

It’s easy to think that every story has already been told. In a world filled with books, movies, and digital media, many people assume that their ideas aren’t original enough or that their voice won’t stand out. But the beauty of storytelling is that every person has a distinct perspective. Your voice, experiences, and worldview shape the stories you tell, and those stories will always be unique because no one else sees the world exactly the way you do.

When Morrison says "you must write it," she’s urging us to acknowledge the value of our own creative vision. You may feel that your story is too niche, too specific, or too personal to matter to a larger audience, but that’s often where the most powerful stories come from. Some of the most beloved works of literature began as deeply personal expressions of an author’s inner world. By telling your own story—or the story you long to read—you may create something that others have been waiting for too.

The Need for Representation

Morrison’s quote also touches on the importance of representation in literature. There are countless stories that remain untold because traditional publishing has historically favored certain narratives over others. Marginalized voices, diverse perspectives, and unconventional stories have often struggled to find their place in mainstream literature.

If you look at the literary landscape and see a lack of representation—whether it’s of people like you, places you know, or experiences you’ve lived—Morrison’s words remind you that the absence of those stories doesn’t mean they aren’t worth telling. On the contrary, it means that there’s a gap in the narrative, a story that desperately needs to be written. Whether you’re writing about a culture, a community, or a personal experience that hasn’t been adequately explored, your contribution can fill that void.

Overcoming the Fear of Writing

One of the biggest obstacles to writing the book you want to read is fear. Fear of failure, fear of judgment, or simply fear that you’re not "good enough" to write the story. Many people feel this anxiety, even the most accomplished authors. But Morrison’s quote is a call to action. She doesn’t say, "If someone else wants to write that book, they should." She says, you must write it. You are the one with the vision, the passion, and the desire to see that story come to life.

It’s important to remember that every writer, no matter how successful, begins with an idea and a blank page. The fear of not living up to your own expectations is natural, but it shouldn’t stop you from starting. Writing is a process, and no first draft is perfect. The story you want to tell may evolve and change as you write, but the key is to begin. Once you do, the fear will slowly give way to creativity, and the joy of telling the story will outweigh the anxiety of getting it "right."

Writing as a Gift to Yourself and Others

When you write the book that you’ve been longing to read, you’re giving yourself a gift. You’re creating the story that fulfills your own creative hunger, that satisfies the longing for a narrative that speaks to your soul. In doing so, you’re also creating a gift for others—readers who, like you, have been waiting for a book that resonates with them on a deeper level.

Some of the greatest books ever written began as personal projects, born out of the author’s own desire to explore a specific idea, culture, or experience. These books often resonate deeply with readers because they come from a place of authenticity and passion. When you write the story you want to read, you’re writing from the heart, and that authenticity is what draws readers in.

Conclusion: Embrace the Call to Write

Toni Morrison’s quote is more than just a piece of advice—it’s a call to action. If there’s a story that you long to read, one that hasn’t been written yet, it’s because you’re the one meant to write it. Don’t wait for someone else to tell the story that lives inside you. Embrace the fear, the uncertainty, and the challenge, and write the book that only you can write.

By doing so, you’re not only creating something deeply meaningful for yourself but also contributing to the ever-evolving tapestry of literature. You’re filling a gap, offering representation, and giving readers the chance to experience a story that they, too, have been waiting for.