Image via Wikipedia
That’s what we were asked to write about at the beginning of our creative non-fiction writing class. Sheese, what a question. I actually didn’t think writing meant anything to me. It’s not like I exist to write or anything. I’m not burning with desire to spin a phrase or wax poetic. Poetry isn’t my thing, really. I appreciate certain poems that speak to my heart, though some are so esoteric that the author’s meaning totally escapes me.
“The skill of writing is to create a context in which other people can think.”
Edwin Schlossberg
I do spend a lot of time in my head. Considering various angles, hidden perspectives, alternative viewpoints intrigues me. In fact, somebody once told me I “think too much.” Often, when reading, I’ll put a book down and think about what the author just said, especially when it’s an insightful nugget. Sometimes the mulling process drives me to the computer to google more material and learn about the author’s background. It’s fair to say I love to think. And I love to talk to other people who think. Then finding the right words to communicate thoughts percolating in my mind offers the ultimate satisfaction. Like eating an utterly delicious dinner followed by the perfect cup of coffee.
“The best style is the style you don’t notice.”
Somerset Maugham
I tend to write the way I talk, direct. And as anybody who knows me will tell you – I usually have a lot to say. My head gets full of things I want to say and one creative outlet is to tap them out on a keyboard. That might be why I write, actually, to release the thoughts swirling in my head. It’s one of the things that turned me on about making television shows, the opportunity to offer information that inspired people to think. We humans were born with the ability to ponder anything and everything and words give that pondering voice.
“Either write something worth reading or do something worth writing.” Ben Franklin
Writing also offers artful expression. Just as a painting or a beautiful dance evoke emotion in the observer, so can a well crafted piece of prose. The talented writers find beautiful compositions of words to paint exactly the pictures (or worlds) they want to communicate. Many times I’ll stop reading something that I’m totally absorbed in just to marvel at the way it’s written. I love talent – whatever form it comes in. And when a writer’s able to hold me hostage in the world she’s created – I’m hers … or his … and I’m filled with admiration. Do yourselves a favor and check out Roger Ebert‘s blog from time to time. He’s among the best! (http://blogs.suntimes.com/ebert/)
“The difference between the right word and the almost right word is the difference between lightning and a lightning bug.” Mark Twain
I’m always searching for the right word and I love when it occurs to me. For me reading and writing are a matched pair. There’s always a lot to learn from a good writer — insightful information and, by example, tips on good writing. I enjoy practicing the craft, letting the keyboard go where my thoughts take me – like a kite to the wind.
actthreedotnet 
There have always been words in my head. At times, I hadn’t wanted them there, because they made a lot of noise and interrupted my other “more important” thoughts. But they had a life of their own, and they wouldn’t go away. Luckily for me, I could release them onto paper, where they were occassionally read by others and were appreciated. And I found that the release served as a welcoming mat for even more words to rush in.
I’m finding the same to be true for me too Renee. I’m taking a non-fiction creative writing class and the instructor gives us prompts and about 15 minutes to write, after which we all read what we wrote. It’s amazing the kinds of things that rush into my brain on topics or lead sentences that I’d never consider writing about. It’s a great exercise that seems to inspire more thoughts to swarm through my head.
I was president of the writing club in high school and worked on the literary magazine in college. We talked once, Joyce, about the effect of children on the perception of time. I haven’t really written much since the kids were born. We joke about this syndrome as B.C. -Before Children. Sometimes ideas worm their way out but I think too much too and need to look at other ways of knowing.
I heard a blue jay squawking the other morning. I looked to see what he was complaining about. As I watched him flitting in a tree, an owl flew out from where he was making all the commotion. Instant joy! Visual connections are where I seem to be heading. My energy goes now into my quilts and the visual arts. I still love a clever phrase and hope to be reading more of your efforts.
I’ve never seen an owl outside of a zoo! I’d love to – lucky you! I love the visual arts too – but have never been that good at hand/eye coordination. As much as I adore jewelry I’ve never really learned how to make it – haven’t seemed to be sucked in like some others. Who knows Jo, maybe you’ll rediscover writing while responding to mine! 🙂
What a great discover this blog is. You say many things that resonate. “You think too much” is so close to home. All my live I’ve been told I work too hard and worry too much. And thinking too much – yep. But what a luxury! Looking forward to future posts.
I recently discovered you too Lynne. And I’m quite glad!