"Sometimes the words come
freely; sometimes we sit in silence gnawing on a brush."
- from Wen Fu by Lu Chi
Too many words have flown across the page about . . .
"writer's block." Even Lu Chi, who wrote in the third century
about the use of language, discovered frustration when writing. In his work on
the art of writing in ancient Chinese, he discussed the joys and problems that
faced both writer and reader.
Sam Hamill's translation expresses, "It is like following a
branch to find the trembling leaf. Like following a stream to find the
spring. With writing often the travel is level and sometimes rocky and
steep. The struggle and course lead the mind into mysteries."
Lu Chi follows nature's ways. He reasons that, "perhaps
only a single blossom from a whole bouquet will bloom."
Would a bird feel nature block? Would water flow and not seek
its own level?
The struggle and course lead the mind into mysteries. If
the pen does not leave the page, there's no stopping point.
Don't believe in the "b" word. Timing might
cause feelings of frustration. The story is not ready. Taking time
for incubation and using distraction will uncover additional ideas. Wax
the refrigerator. Take a nature walk.
Instead of trying to plan everything, free the pen to write
whatever comes. You can always write something.
Moving from one writing project to another teases the mind.
Always have one or two pieces going so you can transfer attention among
them. You'll amaze yourself at the results.
Silliness and laughter assist also. Play tricks on yourself for
diversion and laugh in words.
According to Lu Chi, "Know when to lift your eyes and when
to scrutinize."
Promise yourself not to believe in the "b" word.
Copy paragraphs from your favorite writers.
Find ways to trick yourself to write? Start with the words, sky seeker. . . where will the next words fly?
What do patience and persistence sound and look like?
Discover one
solution to the "b" word. Then write two more.
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