SAME OLD, SAME OLD
I think of writing as a meditative state, where you enter a contemplative place that is still and quiet, even if the actual setting is noisy. And for a children's author, it's often easier to access a feeling and a voice, consistent with the age of your main character, while in this meditative state.
Consistency is a key word here--for me it's important to write at the same time each day, at the same desk, and often in the same old clothes. OK, the same type of old clothes--comfortable. My point is that the meditative state kicks in when the surroundings are comfortably familiar and predictable. This makes it likelier that I will focus on what I DO, naturally and habitually, at 9am, at an old desk, in jeans or pajamas, rather than something I have to BE (i.e. A Good Writer).
Joanne Rocklin, Children's Author
HOW THIS
BECAME THIS!
AND THIS
BECAME THIS!
Archives
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180 WAYS TO CONQUER WRITER'S BLOCK: for writers of all ages and genresHow to Conquer Writer's Block: Tip 10March 29, 2011 
How to Conquer Writer's Block: Tip 9March 18, 2011 
E.H.
Not what you think... One of the best tips I know is his: he used to stop his writing for the day just when things were going well. The next day he'd just pick up at that point and not have to wonder what to write. After that, the writing flowed. Perhaps I should have said, STOP YOUR WRITING AT A HIGH POINT, like E.H. supposedly did. And appreciate cats (more about them, later). He did that, too. How to Conquer Writer's Block: Tip 8March 11, 2011
KNOW YOUR OWN PROCESS
I'm always examining my writing process, my very own psychology of writing. I believe every writer's process is unique. I've learned to pay attention to aspects of my day, my mood, my environment, my habits that increase my productivity and/or enjoyment of my work. I look for patterns. I seem to work more effectively in the morning. I like silly things, like colored typing paper. I can't be hungry. I prefer quiet. Some fortunate writers may find no obvious patterns - they can write anytime, anyplace, under any condition. I've personally never met any of them. |
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