Much to my dismay, I’ve found writing to be difficult lately. For me, writing feels like running. Sometimes it can be exhilarating and effortless, at other times it feels like I’m trudging up a hill of sucking mud. As most of you know, I’m currently editing my second novel, The Many Antlered Crown. I confess that I’m not a natural editor; the process is usually difficult and disheartening although there have been a few precious moments of deep satisfaction. My immediate editing goal is to finish writing a new chapter that I’m adding to the draft. Ideally, the new chapter will smooth out some wrinkles in the plot and provide some much needed character development. The issue is that creating this chapter has been horribly difficult. My writing discipline is usually something that I can rely upon, but it suddenly seems that all my literary virtues have deserted me. My writing process has been clouded by the needs of the moment, the demands of my schedule, and my inner critic. I’ve been struggling to write this chapter because I’ve distanced myself from a creative mental space.
Maintaining a healthy mental space is absolutely essential to good writing. When I’m stressed or worried, I get distracted and can’t produce anything worthwhile. When I feel at peace, fulfilled, and awake to the beauty around me, I’m capable of producing art. There is definitely a sense in which one create an atmosphere conducive to a positive head space, that is the entire premise of a disciplined writing schedule, but what do we do without our precious routines? What if my schedule has been thrown off by life, and I am forced to write in less than ideal conditions? What if I’ve been self-critical while editing and suddenly find myself in need of creating something of which I’m proud? What if I’m just having a rotten day? How do I force a creative headspace?
Simply put, I don’t think one can force a creative headspace, but I do think we can guide ourselves there. Below, I’ve listed a few steps that help me to enter into the right mindset. Hopefully they will be of use to you.
1. Relax. Lay your troubles aside for a time. You can’t worry yourself into creating something beautiful. Ignore everything else and let your mind be still for one peaceful moment. I like to put some atmospheric music on or go for a walk to help me with this step.
2. Remember who you are and what you love. There’s a reason you’re writing this story, something that you’re passionate about. Hold on to that.
3. Imagine the scene as it first occurs to you and freeze that moment in time. Do not think about what the scene should accomplish, how long it should be, or any other technical distractions. Think about the sensory details. Use the smells and sounds to immerse yourself in the world. Put your feet on the ground.
4. Write the scene as you are experiencing it. Once the board is set, allow the pieces to move, describing the game as it unfolds before you. You are only a scribe recording what is happening around you, what is flowing through you. Describe it as best you can, but don’t let yourself get in the way.