I'm pretty sure we all know those times when you start to write something, delete, rewrite, delete, rewrite the rewritten part, delete, et cetera, et cetera, until you can't write anymore because all of your ideas have been used up (you have no idea how lucky you are if you don't know what this is like). I'm also pretty sure that if anyone knows me, they know just how long it takes for me to come up with ideas to write if I don't already have them. To clarify for the people who don't know, the answer is a very long time. So, in typical me fashion, as soon as I went to write this post my mind just went blank. Honestly I'd like to say that "The more I deal with writer's block the better I can handle it and so will you!", but clearly that hasn't happened to me (if you manage to get better at dealing with writer's block every time it happens, please tell me your secrets). Frustratingly, I can't seem to recall a time when I didn't have to deal with writer's block even when explaining a math theorem.
For as long as I can remember I've had major problems with writer's block to the point I haven't written a thesis and the paper is due tomorrow even though I've tried to work for hours on the paper (true story). Not only does it happen with school work, but even when I decide to write stuff for my own enjoyment, an example being poetry, I still can't get ideas, so stress or a grade doesn't really seem to be the problem. I have no idea if this is just me unconsciously refusing to work or if other people get writer's block this badly this often. In fact, I'm still having writer's block at this moment.
I feel I've perhaps discussed my plight with writer's block not quite in the way I experience it wholly, because after my bouts with writer's block I can normally write for quite a while (until I stop writing for say, maybe five minutes, and then it comes back with a vengeance). I wish I could find a way around it and just stop the writer's block before it starts, but hey, whatcha gonna do? Time for me to get a head start on my next post, maybe, just maybe, I'll have something fun to write about (or even an idea at all).
I also have problems with writer’s block. For me it is usually coming up with a topic. That time when you are still unsure exactly what you are writing about. Once I get going I can usually write without problems for a large chunk of time. If you find any ways to combat writers block let me know, it would be very useful.
ReplyDeleteI can totally relate to how you feel. Thinking of good ideas are so hard sometimes! Once I do get one though, I can pretty much keep writing for a while. Nice job with this post!
ReplyDeleteAww, poor Grant. After spending time talking to you about how much you like poetry I feel pretty sorry for you. My best advice for writer's block based on my own experience is to just start typing. First I'll type out the prompt, and then whatever floats through my head, even if it's, "wow, I have nothing to say about this, well maybe that one time..." It makes no sense for about a paragraph, but by then I sort of get on a roll. Also if I'm having trouble formulating ideas I like to take my dog for a walk. She's really slow (stopping to sniff everything) so that forces me to slow down too and helps me think in a more open environment.
ReplyDeleteI enjoyed reading this post very much. Writer's block is very easy to relate to (though I'm sad I have no solution to your problem). You made something rather amusing out of nothing, so kudos! I look forward to what you have to say when you have something to talk about (and good luck finding something!)
ReplyDeleteI like that you took your lack of ideas and turned it into an idea in itself, especially since Writer's Block is such a relatable issue. I also found your writing voice amusing and engaging, making your post entertaining and easy to follow. Nice post!
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