The Accidental Writer: Where Do Ideas Come From?
One of the most common questions I’m asked is where my ideas come from. Every time someone asks I cringe. Not because it’s a bad question but because I’m a little superstitious. I’m worried if I talk too much about the source of my inspiration, one day those ideas will dry up like a used well.
So, you can imagine the trepidation that fills me as I embark on this column. Still, I think sharing my process might be helpful to others, so I will shove aside my fears and plunge forward.
There’s no easy answer to the question. My mind has always spun tales out of the smallest events or characters. Still, most of my inspiration comes from being engaged with the world and the people around me. The news, the latest in politics, scientific breakthroughs or even fads all seem to germinate in my mind, only to become important parts of stories I concoct later on.
Still, if there’s one secret to creation, it is having down time. It’s very hard to imagine if you’re plugged in to all the stimulation happening around you. When I need to create, I have to put aside the Internet, Facebook, Twitter, television and all other distractions and let my mind roam. Unhindered it’s likely to take me places only my subconscious has figured out. And that’s where the really good ideas come from.
Routine is also an important part of my creation process. I like to create first thing in the morning. My mind expects it. It looks forward to the sunrise when it can reveal the latest ideas that sprouted over night. Get into a routine and keep it.
I’m sure every author has his or her own process. As is often the case with creative writing, there’s no correct answer, only what works. Try different approaches until you discover what unlocks your best ideas. I’m sure they’re inside waiting for you to spring them loose.
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