Feeling Stuck? You’re Just Marinating!

Summary

The article "Feeling Stuck? You’re Just Marinating!" by Samantha Lazar discusses strategies for overcoming writer's block by embracing the creative process, seeking support from a writing buddy, and allowing for mental rest.

Abstract

Samantha Lazar addresses the common issue of writer's block, offering insights into how writers can navigate through periods of creative stagnation. She suggests that feeling stuck is a natural part of the writing process, akin to "marinating" before the emergence of new ideas. Lazar recommends seeking the companionship of a writing buddy to share one's creative struggles, emphasizing that discussing one's day or current projects can ignite inspiration. She also encourages writers to embrace the transitional phase between ideas as a space for potential and creativity, likening it to the graceful transitions of a trapeze artist. Lastly, Lazar stresses the importance of mental rest, acknowledging that a well-rested mind can significantly enhance productivity and creativity.

Opinions

Writer's block is seen as a period of incubation for ideas, rather than a lack of creativity.
Engaging with a writing buddy can provide a fresh perspective and help overcome creative barriers.
The act of writing about the experience of being stuck can be a creative endeavor in itself.
Mental fatigue is a common obstacle for writers, and rest is presented as a vital component of the creative process.
The article suggests that embracing transitions and moments of uncertainty can lead to greater artistic expression.

Three simple ways to refill that idea well

What is it about some writers who seem to be so prolific, they must have stories flowing from their ears? Every time you open up your laptop to write, there is some other writer featured for yet another viral story. And you? Well, you’re fresh out of ideas. You think, great writer’s block, again.

We have all been there. I am there right now, actually. I wrote a lot of poetry yesterday. It seemed like everything I saw had a song to it. Every thought in my mind seemed to churn out words that met each other and fell in love.

Today? Nothing.

Get a Writing Buddy

Sometimes you need a writing buddy, otherwise known as an accountability partner, with who you can share your block. That’s what I did today. I told my writing buddy I was stuck.

She said,

You’re just marinating.

To me, that woke me up a little. Like I am “in between poems” or “in-between housing situations” or “in-between relationships.” I am just sitting with the fact that I don’t have an idea. Sometimes, you just need to ask someone else what they are working on, or tell someone about your day. That alone can spark some ideas. It doesn’t have to be brilliant. Just write.

Write Anyway

Transitions can be inspiring places to be. Think of a trapeze artist. It is cool to watch her swing from her toes high in the air. But the beauty happens when she lets go. The beauty is in the transition between swings. It is the flips and flight, the suspense and grace that lights us up. The beauty is in the transition.

So, I wrote this article about being between writing ideas. It does not mean I am uninspired. Quite the opposite is true. I just haven’t really landed yet, and that is ok. I am writing anyway.

Rest Your Mind

Sometimes you are just tired. You need to close your eyes. You realize you have been staring at a screen for too long. Sometimes your body has no choice but to rest. Writers have very busy minds, and we forget to turn it all off. It has taken me years to break through insomnia. I am way more productive, creative, and efficient with my work when I have let my mind rest. Even if you meditate for 5 minutes, that rest can do wonders for your ideas.

To conclude, these three points — talk to a writing buddy, write through the transition, and rest your mind — can hopefully help you see that writer’s block is you needing to marinate for a little longer.

Samantha Lazar is a teacher and author living in North Carolina. She is currently working on a second poetry collection and a chapbook. You can find her first poetry collection here.