Do You Believe?
Every week I listen to incredible writing. The writers in my workshops offer their work and we marvel at the innovation, the nuances, the true character voice. And nearly every week I see the look of surprise on a writer’s face as we notice these essential ingredients of authentic work. The surprise is a way of saying, “I had no idea my writing was that good.” It’s hard for us to believe in our own work for so many reasons: We are told so often that what we have done is ‘wrong,’ so we attach that value to everything we write; We are so used to our own voice that we no longer consider it novel or special; We fear the strange genius that emerges when we let our pens fly. It takes courage to put ourselves on the page. It takes conviction to stand behind our creations. I wonder what would happen if a writer believed in their work, really believed in the power, the extraordinary perspective, the cumulative observations, the personal rhythms, and the one-of-a-kind imaginings. What would happen if you believed in your writing? Would the energy strengthen as you write? Would you take an extra risk? Would you move into ‘forbidden’ territory? Would you plunge deeper into familiar subjects? Would you find a voice you didn’t know you had? Surprise starts with the writing itself. Surprise yourself. Give yourself a gift: Believe.
With joy in words,
Maureen
Upcoming Events
Malibu Retreat February 4 – 7, 2019 All writers welcome, no matter the genre or experience level. This is your time to celebrate your writing! https://www.writingfulltilt.com/retreats/
Online Weekly Workshop January 7 – March 11, 2019 6:30 – 9:00 EST. Need a workshop to come to you? This is it! https://www.writingfulltilt.com/online-workshop/
Weekly Workshops in Amherst: Tuesdays 2:00 – 4:00 p.m.; Thursdays 6:30 – 9:30 p.m.; Fridays 9:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. Join other writers for adventurous writing and profound listening. https://www.writingfulltilt.com/workshops/
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