Understand me – I’m a Writer
Writers have rituals. Charles Dickens would walk around his house, or take long walks at night. Alfred Lord Tennyson would walk with his son saying his latest poem out loud. This is something those who are not creative do not understand. To them the writer is procrastinating, lazy, or worse playing games. That is not true. The creative process just doesn’t happen it takes time for the brain to work out what to put on the paper. Inspiration comes at anytime not when you try to recall it.
All writers have had writer’s block. The mind is closed to anything creative. Therefore the frustrated writer must do things that bring the inspiration to the forefront. This is when the writer is misunderstood. As a spouse/partner of the writer it is their job to assist not nag the creative genius. How you may ask?
First make sure there are no distractions, such as children, and pets. They make the best reason for a writer to find an excuse not to write. The environment for a writer is important. Don’t re-pot plants or decide that corner bookcase needs moving, cleaning or painting in the writers room. Although cleaning by vacuuming is possibly the biggest culprit to stop the writer’s stream of conscious thoughts. The writer will use it as an excuse to do research at the local café or bar.
I like to have music when I write, there are others who need silence. I chose the music to fit what I am writing. It’s an emotional scene tears are running down your face as you write the death of a beloved character. The music swells you are just putting the final touches to this important part of the story. Your spouse/partner walks into the room and asks if you want rice or potatoes with your lunch.
Writers are selfish about their time to write the non-creative partners need to understand that interruptions can stop the flow.
The final kick come when you have finished the work and your partner reads it. You have to ask them what they thought. They reply, “Interesting, what would you like for dinner.”
Partners, spouses and children should not be seen or heard during the creative hours. That way the writer has to be creative to find an excuse not to write. Most will just write it is easier.
