If we get little response or too many negatives, we will give up or amend our courting in some way. I am a professional, earning my living in an artistic field other than writing, who has learned and thought a lot about this very question. My answer today is that each person balances the internal and external reasons for engaging in art differently. Each story carries a unique balance. Each reader interprets this balance differently.
Art is about communicating.
First and foremost, I communicate with myself. The relationship between creator and self is at the foundation of every artistic experience. I try to write honestly, imbuing my prose with words that are me . Is it honest or does it step over into manipulative and preachy dogma. That's a personal button-pusher for me.