The Power of Writing | Priyankha Kamalakannan | TEDxYouth@TFIS

Summary

This inspiring video explores the transformative power of writing, drawing parallels between the life of Anne Frank and the speaker's personal journey. Through reflecting on historical figures like William Shakespeare and Lenin, the video emphasizes how writing can shape cultures and inspire change. The speaker shares her own experiences, including writing stories and receiving encouragement, highlighting how writing fosters creativity and communication. The speech also features a heartfelt acrostic poem and encourages others to use writing as a tool for self-expression and making the world a better place. Writing is presented as a superpower capable of creating lasting impact.

Takeaways

• 😀 Writing has the power to transform emotions and share personal experiences, as demonstrated by Anne Frank's diary.
• 😀 Anne Frank's diary, written during World War II, has inspired many to write and share their stories.
• 😀 Writing is a tool for self-expression and can help convey emotions and thoughts that may otherwise be difficult to articulate.
• 😀 Personal stories, like Anne Frank's, can have a lasting impact and encourage others to open up and write.
• 😀 Writing can connect people across time and space, much like the ancient civilizations' writings on scrolls and papyrus.
• 😀 Books and written works, such as those of Shakespeare and Lenin, continue to influence and entertain people today.
• 😀 Reading is an essential part of writing, helping to build vocabulary, provide inspiration, and improve writing skills.
• 😀 Writing can create a sense of community by connecting authors with readers who share similar viewpoints.
• 😀 Personal achievements in writing, like the author's story 'The Bucket List Detectives,' show how writing can receive positive feedback and encouragement.
• 😀 The simple act of writing, like the creation of an acrostic poem, demonstrates the creative potential writing brings to life.
• 😀 Writing is not just about sharing stories; it is a way of reinventing oneself and influencing the world in positive ways.

Q & A

Who is the young girl mentioned in the transcript, and why is she significant?

The young girl mentioned is Anne Frank, who wrote a famous diary while hiding during World War II. Her diary has inspired millions around the world, showcasing the power of writing in times of adversity.

What does Anne Frank’s quote about writing convey?

Anne Frank's quote, 'I can shake off everything as I write; my sorrows disappear, my courage is reborn,' expresses how writing can be a therapeutic and empowering way to process emotions and gain strength.

What was Priyanka’s first experience with writing and how did it affect her?

Priyanka’s first experience with writing was creating a story called *The Bucket List Detectives* as a hobby. When her father printed the book and gave it to guests at her birthday party, the positive feedback she received encouraged her to continue writing.

How did Priyanka’s writing evolve over time?

After writing *The Bucket List Detectives*, Priyanka continued to write, and the next year, she wrote *Lyanna’s Adventures in Wonderland*. The support and encouragement from others played a significant role in her growth as a writer.

Why does Priyanka emphasize the importance of writing in today’s world?

Priyanka emphasizes that while technology is prevalent, writing—whether in the form of books, letters, or diaries—remains an important tool for communication, preserving history, and expressing ideas.

What role does reading play in the development of writing skills, according to the transcript?

Reading is an essential aspect of writing, as it exposes writers to new ideas, enhances vocabulary, and helps them improve their writing skills by learning from others' works.

How did historical figures like Shakespeare and Lenin use writing to influence the world?

Shakespeare's plays and poems continue to entertain and inspire people today because of his mastery of writing. Similarly, Lenin’s written works have shaped political history, showing how writing can have a lasting impact.

What does the poem 'Spring' reveal about Priyanka’s approach to writing?

The acrostic poem 'Spring' reflects Priyanka's creative expression, using vivid imagery and simple language to convey the beauty and joy of the season, highlighting her ability to write in different formats.

What message does Priyanka want to convey to her audience about writing?

Priyanka encourages her audience to start writing today, emphasizing that writing is a superpower that can inspire change, express one’s true self, and make the world a better place.

What is the significance of writing, according to Priyanka, in terms of self-expression and change?

Writing allows individuals to reinvent themselves, share their experiences, and express their thoughts. Priyanka believes that writing has the power to inspire others, influence change, and contribute to a better world.