Inspiration
By Natalie Bright
for writers can come through a variety of venues, and I’ve learned to take what I can get. Don’t question. Write it down.
Inspiration can also come from hanging out with other writers; one of my favorite ways to ignite the muse. When you’re passionate about something, who doesn’t love to “talk shop”? The creative energy in a room full of writers is difficult to ignore. If you take the time to lunch, meet for coffee, attend a conference, you’ll be re-energized.
Alone Times
Of course, at some point we have to get back to work, and that means time alone. Lots of time alone. How do you get back into the writing groove?
It’s the most difficult part about writing, I think. To leave the hustle and bustle of the present day and disappear into the fictional world of your sub-conscious.
Journaling
- You do have a journal for your current work in progress don’t you? Fill the pages with research notes about locations, building details, town layouts, room floor plans, vegetation, yard descriptions. You may not used all of that information in your book, but it will make the setting even more alive in your mind.
- First person accounts in the point of view of your characters. Even minor characters can give you insight into your main characters. Free write the same scene from each character’s perspective.
- Character descriptions and character profiles. Describe your characters to the tiniest detail.
Having a hard time getting back into your story? Read through your WIP journal and before long your fingers will be flying over the keyboard. I’ve extended my WIP journals into Pinterest boards for visual inspiration.
What other kinds of information do you put in your WIP journals?
Wordsmith Six 