The most frightening thing for many writers is the blank page. The more I say this in class, the more writers disagree with me, until, that is, they are asked to go back to their stories after receiving concrete criticism. Once doubt enters your mind, the blank page becomes a jungle, a hellscape, a terrible enemy to face down in the dark. The only way to beat back the demon is to face it head on. The only way to conquer the blank page is to write down everything that is presently in your mind and force your mind to reach for more. When you run out of words to write you have two choices: Quit or go find some more inspiration to fill it. You’d be surprised how many writers choose to quit.
Some Thoughts:
- Florida ought to consider a new motto. Perhaps something like, Florida: The Only Thing More Plentiful Than Our Cockroaches Are The Number Of Unarmed Black Folks Shot Per Year.
- Baseball is a statistically amazing game. I’m looking forward to seeing my middle kid getting back into it.
- I’m looking forward to watching all three race up and down the pitch every saturday for soccer.
- Most of all, I’m looking forward to them going back to school and me getting back to some serious writing. Them stories are a brewin.
- I’ll blog about the whole Up situation soon, but short form: Up works. I love it and it helps me to recognize where my weaknesses are and how to focus to correct them.