All Dried Up

I guess this is what they call "Writer's Block"?

I've never had it before, and I guess that's because I've never considered myself A Writer till recently. When you're just hammering out your rant for the day (while at a red light, via Blackberry!) you don't worry about how it reads, and therefore it reads just fine.

I have SO MUCH TO SAY, and I've been given great opportunities to say it. I have some wonderful, well-researched articles in the pipeline but right now, they read like mud. Part of it is that I'm in the throes of Christmas, and I know that Sean will be heading out in the new year, so my time is very limited and I find my writing sounds rushed; but I also need to step back and take a breath.

I've been reading: some good books and articles on writing. And! Tomorrow I'm going to a journalism lecture at the University here. I'm learning so much, and loving it. I'll write about it all of course, eventually.

For now, I'm taking a step back. This week I have some great Quotes, and maybe (maybe) some book reviews as I've been to the library again, but don't expect any Articles of Blazing Significance here. If you've got advice, though, my writer friends, I'm listening.

Comments

Islandgirl said…

Same advice Flossy gave me about painting...don't write (paint) for the money or the fame or what you think other people would want...write what you WANT to write. Let it come from your heart. The difference always shows. And when you don't want to write - don't. Go skype your friend instead! ;-)

16/12/2009, 12:05

Theresa said…

I agree with Sharon! And where Sean going?

16/12/2009, 13:52

Anonymous said…

Writing is the hardest work, I think. It seems like it should be easy, but it's not. I always advise students to write and write--"Puke on paper" so to speak. Shitty first drafts can be revised to become gems.

16/12/2009, 14:34

Nan Sheppard said…

So write, write, write, write! Will do. I am, and have lots of drivel to show for it! But there is some good stuff in between.

16/12/2009, 15:36

Know what you mean. I have taken some carefully composed photos with the specific intention being to use them as a painting reference...'cause you know, wow that would make a great painting. That day hasn't come. Maybe whilst the inspiration is there in the moment is really the best time to jump in. So...how about walking around with a notepad in a pocket...and going for it whether you are in a bus, in the loo or in the checkout line...ahem...hold on a minute I'm writing here!

vicki

16/12/2009, 16:22

Unknown said…

Each and every person who writes has their own and peculiar (if not particular) style. And each enjoys their own and particular (if not peculiar) method for getting what's stuck between their ears down to pen and paper - or keyboard. Just find you in what you do. Do it YOUR way. Say YOUR stuff. And have fun - that more than anything - don't let it become a chore.

16/12/2009, 17:19

Lou has it right there..BINGO..do it for the LOVE of it! For the fun..minute it becomes a 'job' you're screwed

16/12/2009, 18:23

My problem is that I'm a chronic businesswoman. I often turn my hobbies into commerce, and I'm good at it!

16/12/2009, 20:46

Kelley @ magnetoboldtoo said…

Don't think to hard. That is the worst thing you can do.

Just type.

17/12/2009, 07:29