Why I Write: George Orwell's Four Motives for Creation | Brain Pickings

“Sheer egoism… Writers share this characteristic with scientists, artists, politicians, lawyers, soldiers, successful businessmen — in short, with the whole top crust of humanity.”

Some other good lists too:

Why I Write (public library) — a fine addition to other timeless insights on writing, including Kurt Vonnegut’s 8 rules for a great story, David Ogilvy’s 10 no-bullshit tips, Henry Miller’s 11 commandments, Jack Kerouac’s 30 beliefs and techniques, John Steinbeck’s 6 pointers, and various invaluable insight from other great writers.

Great reads, Greg.

I had never before heard of readlists but the one that's a companion to this article is pretty fantastic: http://readlists.com/cdbd013d/