I’m always curious about how other writers transition from the hurly-burly of their lives into the more deeply immersive state necessary (at least for me) of writing.
What works for you? I’m eager to hear. Thanks for sharing!
I read poetry. It helps me change channels like nothing else. Then I go back and read the previous day's work. I don't write a word until I do those things.
When I'm beginning to work on a book, I get up early, light a candle and incense and sit for a book focused meditation. When I come out of it, I open my journal and take notes on the meditation in my journal. I call this my gestation period. It is totally intuitive and can last for months or years. I've learned to be patient and wait. This period is just as vital to the finished product as active writing. At some point, I know I'm ready to begin work on the actual narrative. Then I get up at 5am (lately more like 4am) and go straight to my computer. I have three or four workshops that I can count on to give me valuable feedback on my work. When I'm well on my way, I go to one of these workshops and get some feedback from writers I've known and trusted for years. This process takes years. I am not a prolific writer, never will be. But this has worked for me so far.
I read poetry. It helps me change channels like nothing else. Then I go back and read the previous day's work. I don't write a word until I do those things.
This is, quite literally, what I do. Why doesn’t this surprise me? 🤗
Doesn't surprise me either. Somos comadres.
When I'm beginning to work on a book, I get up early, light a candle and incense and sit for a book focused meditation. When I come out of it, I open my journal and take notes on the meditation in my journal. I call this my gestation period. It is totally intuitive and can last for months or years. I've learned to be patient and wait. This period is just as vital to the finished product as active writing. At some point, I know I'm ready to begin work on the actual narrative. Then I get up at 5am (lately more like 4am) and go straight to my computer. I have three or four workshops that I can count on to give me valuable feedback on my work. When I'm well on my way, I go to one of these workshops and get some feedback from writers I've known and trusted for years. This process takes years. I am not a prolific writer, never will be. But this has worked for me so far.
Patient and profound! Thanks for sharing,Dahlma.
I stare off into space and think, I can't do this. The thought of not writing gets me going!
Haha! So true ... it's worse not to write!