100 Things Challenge (#1): A Chrysalis Is a Solitary Place (or How a Writer Is Born)

[dawn_felagund]

I've decided to take the 100 Things challenge. (Just what I need! Something else to add to my to-do list! Luckily I have forever to finish it, which those of you waiting for me to finish things can all attest is about how long it usually takes.)

Comments

[dawn_felagund]

He thinks it's something I can just pull out when I get the urge. While sometimes that is the case, I personally need to write as a way of self-care.

I've gotten pretty good at being able to write when I need to. I'm not very good at suppressing the need when it comes suddenly upon me. ;) Your note about writing as self-care is relevant to me as well. As a young person, I had terrible insomnia. As I got older, I eventually came to realize that the insomnia came about because I was telling myself stories all night. Writing them down effectively cleared my head, and I became a more functional person.

I need to remove myself from my muses to be human.

That's so true. I could see myself becoming a hermit quite easily. But I do enjoy people and working with people, I think I'm pretty good as a teacher, and ultimately, it is that human interaction that I think makes my stories effective, because I am able to write realistic characters. Also, interacting with people reminds me of the greater purpose that art can serve in making the world a better place for humankind, which is something I believe in strongly. So it is ultimately more healthy for me creatively, too, I think.

[willtherebetime]

I am so glad to see kindred spirits. When I was young, I told myself stories to put myself to sleep.
I work with victims/survivors of violence, so writing offers me a way to disengage when needed. However since I began having such intense interactions and seeing how dynamic people can be, I think it has improved my characterization skills.

I really like your statement regarding art's purpose. I'd like to hear more about your position on that!