* Childhood love of storytelling: Dahl was a voracious reader from a young age, often devouring adventure stories. This passion for imaginative narratives likely planted the seeds for his own writing aspirations.
* Life experiences: Dahl's experiences as a fighter pilot during World War II and his subsequent time working for Shell Oil in Africa provided him with a rich wellspring of material for his stories. These experiences shaped his view of the world and provided him with unique perspectives that he later channeled into his writing.
* Personal tragedy: The loss of his young daughter, Olivia, to a rare blood disease deeply affected Dahl. He wrote "The BFG" as a way to cope with his grief and to honor his daughter's memory. This experience demonstrates how personal trauma can drive artistic expression.
* Inspiration from other writers: Dahl was greatly influenced by authors like Rudyard Kipling and H.G. Wells. He admired their ability to create captivating stories filled with adventure, humor, and suspense. These writers inspired him to pursue his own path as a storyteller.
While it's impossible to know definitively what motivated Dahl to become a writer, it's likely a combination of these factors that led him to his chosen career. He embraced the challenge of creating imaginative worlds, exploring complex themes, and captivating young readers with his unique and memorable stories.