A great way to overcome writer’s block or just start a writing session is by using stream of consciousness writing. A goal that a writer should always have is to expand the scope of consciousness. You must first tap into the wealth of the subconscious. During stream of consciousness writing the subconscious bubbles up to the surface and displays itself to you on the page.
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Try to write a couple of pages in a stream of consciousness style. This is not poetry. This is playing with unrealized possibilities. When you have several pages and are ready to stop (don’t stop until you are ready), look at what you have written. Be sure to read this uncritically. Either use a line, or a thought from the pages you have written as a jumping point for your next poem or short story.
When you put pen to paper without thinking about it at all, something happens. It is possible to be swept away into an unfamiliar and wonderful place where you write directly from the thoughts you don’t always acknowledge. The thoughts that are waiting beneath the surface of your mind are displayed on the page. This can be stunning and brilliant. It can also help you generate some great ideas to work with.
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Automatic writing is fascinating, and struggling writers could probably really benefit from trying it. I have mentioned your post in my own recent blog post, which discusses the hidden potential in a seemingly mediocre rough draft. Thank you for this post.
This is something I often use to help myself through creative blocks. Thanks for posting, I’m sure many writers can put this idea to good use!