Introducing My Creative Writing Process
I've often been asked about the alchemy of my writing process – how I transform a wisp of an idea into a tangible, pulsing story. So, I've decided to pen a series of blogs detailing my journey from the first flicker of inspiration to the completion of the first draft. Along the way, I'll share not just the practical steps I take but also the whirlwind of emotions that accompany each stage. And for a twist, I'll align each stage of my process with a phase of the Hero's Journey as outlined by Joseph Campbell.
The Beginning: Where Inspiration Strikes
Let's start at the beginning, like in most stories (Quentin Tarantino's narrative gymnastics aside). My journey usually kicks off with an idea that spontaneously pops into my head. It could be an unusual twist on a universal tale, a fresh perspective on an old story, or just a novel idea that seems intriguing.
The First Emotional Stirrings
When an idea strikes, it's like a creative jolt zapping through my mind. There's a sense of intrigue and excitement, mixed with a healthy dose of wonder and curiosity. I find myself rolling the idea around in my thoughts, playing with it, stretching it, testing its limits to see if there's something more beneath the surface.
Overcoming the Initial Hurdles
However, this stage isn't without its pitfalls. Distraction looms large, ready to pull my attention away to less demanding tasks. Self-doubt creeps in, whispering questions about the idea's worth and my ability to do it justice.
My Practices for Nurturing the Idea
To navigate these early challenges, I practice being fully present with the idea. I allow myself to feel the emotions it stirs – the intrigue, the excitement, the wonder, the curiosity. It's about embracing the idea, living with it, letting it breathe and take shape in my mind.
Aligning with the Hero's Journey: The Call to Adventure
In terms of the Hero's Journey, this is my 'Call to Adventure.' It's the moment when the idea presents itself, beckoning me to embark on a new creative quest.
Setting the Goals and Outcomes
The goal at this initial stage is simple yet profound: to feel sufficiently intrigued and excited about the idea to commit it to paper. It's about capturing that initial spark before it flickers out, preserving the essence of the inspiration so it can be nurtured into something more.
The First Step of a Writer's Journey
This stage is just the beginning, the first step in the intricate dance of creative writing. In my upcoming blogs, I'll delve deeper into the subsequent stages of my process, exploring how an idea evolves from this initial jolt of inspiration into a structured, fleshed-out narrative.
Stay tuned as we journey together through the labyrinth of creative writing, discovering the magic and challenges that lie within each turn.
