I'm always depressed for awhile after writing something good. When the muse is working and the words flow, you never wish it to end. But end it does, leaving you drained, breathless, and rather empty. Other writers have adopted the metaphor of giving birth to describe the process of writing. But I've witnessed the births of two of my three children and would not trivialize the physical pain and exertion of giving life by making comparisons unworthy of that supreme effort. Writing is a walk in the park next to childbirth.
But where the metaphor works is in regards to the aftermath. You've put your heart and soul into nurturing this thing that has been inside you for so long and now it's out, separate, with a life of it's own and you are not at all certian that you will ever be able to again create something so real and beautiful as what you have just managed. You've got Post-Natal Depression of the Word, baby.
I'm so glad you wrote this. It's why I don't write - which is stupid. I need to figure out a way to write a little instead of feeling like I always have to write an essay. For no other reason than to just keep the wheels greased.
ReplyDeletebtw, I love your playlist!
At least you are able to recognize perfection in what you create, give it life, take ownership--and then let go of it, let it be. In my case, too often when I write (of late, usually music), I permit myself, unfortunately, to become entangled in a web of endless revision from which dientanglement is difficult at best--and often fatal to the project on which I'm working. Knowing precisely when the piece you've sculpted, the words (or music) you've written, the painting you've painted is finished is an art in itself, and one that all good writers must master, not just in the interest of their creations but in the interest of their well-being.
ReplyDeleteTo Katie (reference: Your comment above):
ReplyDeleteDon't be so critical of yourself. If you are a Fotheringham, you can write. End of story.
Second tidbit of advice (and writing's first golden rule): Never write to impress--write only to express. So, since you are a Fotheringham and since I know you have much to express, it would be an understatement to say that you have a mountain of words inside of you just waiting to be written. FYI: Had to stay for a while to listen to Mike's playlist--most soothing...
Wes
Sorry Mark. I meant YOUR playlist. Love it!
ReplyDelete