Writing Down The Bones :: Book Review

I hated writing when I was in junior high and high school. As a creative person, I cringed at the thought of adhering to very specific rules in spelling, grammar, and sentence structure. To make things worse, the rules seemed to change without warning and for no particular reason. How was I supposed to keep track of whether or not E went before I or I before E?

English was my least favorite subject, ironic since my career today is largely based on writing. Instead, I spent most of my mental energy on math, science, and art classes. I developed a talent for drawing and things that involved creativity. I always thought that writing was for left-brainers; that is, until I went to college.

My view changed first semester at school when I took a creative writing class. At first I was reluctant, but it was a required class for freshmen, so I showed up with a pen, spiral notebook (college ruled of course), and a forced smile.

Stream of Consciousness

The textbook for the class was “Writing Down the Bones,” by Natalie Goldberg. The first thing the professor had us learn was stream of consciousness writing. In this technique, you write whatever comes to your head as you think it without regard to grammar, spelling, or sentence structure. It’s even okay if what you are writing doesn’t make sense. You just put your pen to paper and let it move on it’s own, recording a stream of thoughts.

At first it was difficult. I felt self-conscious writing jibberish. I didn’t want anyone else to see my work because they might think I was stupid. Even though I struggled, the process fascinated me.

I started to write stream of consciousness journal entries in my spare time. The more I wrote, the more I felt my mind loosen up and get involved in the process. Unlike the writing I did in high school, my imagination lit up in the process. Without the constraints of rules, my right brain was able to run wild.

Writing as an Art Form

Today, I regard writing as one of the greatest forms of creative expression available to an individual. The strength of writing is that it allows a person to dig deep within their intellect and communicate what they find with others. While visual art (such as a painting), and auditory art (such as a song) each have their own ways of powerfully communicating; writing has a unique ability to express something through imagination and intellectual detail.

If you are a creative person, it is important to write as much as you can. Even if you are not creative, writing can help you to find your creative side. Even through a blog or a stream of consciousness journal, the act of writing itself is like exercise for your brain.

Masterpieces

Most people think that a masterpiece is already in an artist’s head before she begins to create. In reality, the piece of art takes on a life of its own during the process of creation. As you write each day, your creative side will be allowed to do what it does best: create. You will be amazed at the things that flow from within you.

Crystallize Your Thoughts

Writing helps to crystallize your thoughts. If you are feeling uneasy about something, but can’t quite put your finger on it, try writing about it. The act of putting your thoughts on paper gives greater structure to your thoughts. When you hit a wall in your writing, put it down and let it sit overnight. When you return to it the next day, your thoughts will be more clear.

A Record of You

Writing creates a record of your state of mind. If you write often and keep your work, you and anyone you share it with will always be able to look back on your history. Your descendants, generations after you leave this life, will be able to know you through your work. You will have left your mark on this world.

So Write!

If you are compelled to create, write. If you are an artist, write. If you are a musician, write. Writing can help you in so many ways that spill over into the rest of your life.

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