Writing Tip – Don’t Fight the Muse
Today’s writing tip is about the antithesis of writer’s block—the noisy Muse. I have the idea for my second mystery formulated. Of course, it’s just an idea at this point that is in much need of fleshing out.
However, the Muse is liking the idea already. I’m trying to stay focused on my current work to wrap it up, yet the Muse wants to talk about the new mystery. Today’s writing tip is to not to fight it. When she wants to talk, pull up a chair. Grab a cup of coffee. Enjoy a good chat.
Ideas are a precious commodity. As many of you know, you don’t have control always when happen along. The Muse sets her own schedule. That is why you should always carry a notebook with you. Never rely totally on your memory. Trust me: it doesn’t work.
When she starts talking, listen. Take good notes if the timing isn’t the best. You need just enough to help you recall the idea. The time ruminating in your subconscious can help flesh it out.
Once you have developed a relationship with the Muse, cultivate it. Respect it. Above all, listen to it.
The Muse
I’m approaching my self-imposed deadline for my book. As I get closer to the end, the muse is already talking about the next one. I’ve jotted a few notes, but am trying to stay focused on the work at hand. That muse is a funny one. Some days she is quiet and no amount of coaxing opens her up. Other days, sometimes in the most inappropriate moments, she’s yakking away.
When I later review the thoughts she has expressed, I find some that are out there. How could that possible work? Fortunately, those are few and far between. For the most part, she is focused. She craves the end of the book as much as I do.
Having reached this point in the process, I realize that these are the fun days. The days ahead of sending emails and letters, hoping and praying for positive replies will usher in an entirely new set of stresses and pressures. As far as the creative process is concerned, these are the salad days. I enjoy the rewrites, the pondering over the right word or phrase. I tried to refrain from puzzling over these details in the writing of the book. My goal was just to get it down. The rest would come. And here I am enjoying the twilight of the creative process.
Always Prepared For Character Material
If there’s one thing I learned from writing is that you can never predict when the muse will pipe up. Take the other day, for instance. My husband and I were at the local watering hole. I observed this interesting interaction between two of the patrons. Perfect, I thought. I have to add this to my book. Of course, I didn’t want to lose the thought, so I whipped out my handy Moleskine Writing Journal and entered my thoughts for the scene. There’s something about a Moleskine too, being the journal of choice of the likes of Hemingway and others. It makes me feel like a real writer.
and entered my thoughts for the scene. There’s something about a Moleskine too, being the journal of choice of the likes of Hemingway and others. It makes me feel like a real writer.I keep two journals. One is a larger Moleskine that I keep at home for entering thoughts and then the smaller one in my purse so I always have something to write on. The muse’s ways are mysterious and unpredictable. You always have to be prepared.
Get the 101 Book Now!
While You’re Surfing
Get free online storage with Dropbox
Get 20% Off QuickBooks Pro Small Business Accounting Software + Free Shipping + Free Learning CD
Toodledo.com is a powerful, online to-do list. Keeping track of all your tasks will help you avoid disorganization, stay motivated and be more productive. Check it out.
Articles
Writing Samples
For Writers and Readers
Extras
BookSwim
