False Gods: The Show Jumper's Challenge

Do Writers Have a Secret Power Source?

We hear a lot about writer’s block, but what’s the problem? Writers pray for sessions when they sit down at the keyboard and the words flow like dictation from the talented writer gods. Musicians, scientists, athletes all seek this almost 'outside the body’ experience of effortless creative power or being in the zone. So if we can plug into this secret energy source, why don’t we? I think it is because the power, the muse, or whatever you want to call it, requires that you trust it first. Trust it to show up. Trust it not to lead you astray. For the blocked writer, it’s hard to believe that if you just show up and do the work, it will be okay. Usually better than okay. Often the muse comes for a visit, likes that you’re willing to listen, and whispers creative inspirations in your ear. But trusting is hard. It’s much easier to clean the refrigerator or alphabetize the spice rack than face the blank screen or edit the lousy first draft. It is hard to believe that if you just put your fingers on the keyboard, something magical can happen. Trust demands you let go and let it take over. It gets easier, so they say.