Writing | Creativity
When Writing Doesn’t Come
Should we write nevertheless?
One of those those days when words don’t seem to come (and no, Sinatra is definitely not singing this in my head, it would be absolutely annoying!..). Empty filler words are allowed today — or maybe every other day — because they’re not necessarily empty, or a filler.
It’s funny how people deem certain structures and forms of expression unnecessary — say, you ran out of ideas, thus stuff your pages with useless words. But can words be useless?..
In creative writing, every little detail has its purpose. Sure, corporate and content creators don’t agree — too wordy, not concise enough, go straight to the point, they say. Not to insult them, but those scribbles aren’t for reading — people skim through the pages, cherry-pick what they want, need or what satisfies their curiosity. The purpose of reading is different.
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I would like to think that our creative scribbles are read. Properly read. If it’s not your cup of tea, you will go through the first sentences or a couple of paragraphs and let it be… And it’s totally fine, we get it. But if you choose to continue, we would like to believe that every word, every sentence and every exclamation mark carries a weight.
What may seem but an empty word for content creators, expresses an emotion or at least a subtle undertone for creatives. Too wordy? Paragraphs don’t offer enough white space? Well, some scribbles are simply not for you, my friend. None of us should take offence — we read and write what aligns with our values, interests and needs. Let’s be respectful and peacefully move on…
One of those days when words don’t seem to come — I suppose I’m rambling. The idea might not be there, but sometimes we write just because we have to. No, not because I’m trying to force myself, even though consistency is important. No, it’s rather because I need to put myself out there through the flow of thoughts pouring into words and pages.
Perhaps it’s a form of meditation, a way to ground myself. Surely, there is something to do with self-actualisation too. Writing is a way of thinking for me. That makes it a way of being. Does that mean, if I don’t write, I don’t exist?..
When one of those days comes, don’t force yourself. Don’t feel bad about the lack of ideas or a chapter not yet published. Some days grace us with an abundance of ideas and inspiration flows — three or four pieces of writing come out… What a success!.. It’s only natural that sometimes we’re a dry field amid summer. Perhaps it’s time to recharge.
I went for a walk during lunchtime. It’s only the beginning of February, but the air smells of spring. The snow was almost gone and my nose felt the tingling aroma of damp fresh soil. The park was almost empty — a few squirrels squirrelled away as I interrupted their daily nut-cracking rituals. Happy dogs smiled at their owners as a ball, or a stick flew to the depths of the park. Life can be this beautiful…
I’m not sure if words and ideas will flow, but this walk made me flow. The soul is nourished now. I can try conjuring a piece or two.
But if it doesn’t come, I will not feel bad about it. I will put on music and read a book, or a few interesting articles. Not because of inspiration, but because my soul needs nourishment. And because it makes me happy.
If writing doesn’t come, in that moment we’re unhappy with ourselves. We stare at a blank page and self-doubt starts creeping in. It’s not a good place to be. Sure, we can force it, some forms of writing are easier than others… But why choose misery? I believe it will come naturally. It always does…
My scribbles dive into a variety of topics. Yet whether I scribble fantasy or horror, highly opinionated or research-driven pieces, I hope it leaves you with something to ponder: makes you feel better (or worse?..), strikes an inner monologue (hopefully, voiced out in the comments!) or simply gives you something to chew on, inspiring to keep the creative ball rolling.
Thank you for reading!