11 answers
Ember
Student
Springdale, Oregon
1
Question
Asked
2349 views
What would you say your creative process is? What inspires your ideas when writing? How long does it typically take for you to finish a book?
I'm Atlas! A student at Job Corps who wants to go into writing.
11 answers
Flo L.
Strategist | Educator | I & E | Consultant | Intuitive Creator
8
Answers
Chicago, Illinois
Updated
Flo’s Answer
Exciting that you want to pursue writing, Atlas! You can certainly go in many directions with it.
I self-published not because I set out to become a writer, but because I was inspired by the idea of being able to say, "I've done it."
So far, I’ve published three books. Two of them were simply about gathering my poetry and intuitive reflections in one central place.
My third book is a memoir, which took me six months to complete, but only a full week to actually write. I joined a Meetup group that hosted weekly Zoom meetings to help set a discipline for daily writing. With intention, dedication, and passion, I was able to achieve that goal.
Follow your heart. Writing, for me, has become an essential way to express my authentic self. I’m always writing and developing my work, and it’s incredibly satisfying. An answer to a question turns into a blog post, a heartfelt reflection into a poem, and a collection of poetry into a book.
When you follow your heart, it may not always lead to grand success, but you’ll certainly learn more about yourself in the journey—and that’s a priceless endeavor I highly recommend everyone to take.
I self-published not because I set out to become a writer, but because I was inspired by the idea of being able to say, "I've done it."
So far, I’ve published three books. Two of them were simply about gathering my poetry and intuitive reflections in one central place.
My third book is a memoir, which took me six months to complete, but only a full week to actually write. I joined a Meetup group that hosted weekly Zoom meetings to help set a discipline for daily writing. With intention, dedication, and passion, I was able to achieve that goal.
Follow your heart. Writing, for me, has become an essential way to express my authentic self. I’m always writing and developing my work, and it’s incredibly satisfying. An answer to a question turns into a blog post, a heartfelt reflection into a poem, and a collection of poetry into a book.
When you follow your heart, it may not always lead to grand success, but you’ll certainly learn more about yourself in the journey—and that’s a priceless endeavor I highly recommend everyone to take.
Roger Maxwell
Freelance Writer
15
Answers
Phoenix, Arizona
Updated
Roger’s Answer
What if? Then what? Then what? What if?
Curiosity is the beginning of inspiration. It looks like this:
“What if …? And then … and then … then what if?
What if there was a boy living with his aunt and uncle …
and what if he was livin on another planet,
and what if he was lonely? Let’s call him Luke.
And then his uncle buys some droids …
and then Luke is cleaning one of the droids and a video message appears with a princess asking for help from one of Luke’s neighbors, Ben Kenobi, but she calls him Obiwan Kenobi.
And then …
There you are, the beginning of Star Wars: Chapter 4 - A New Hope.
Maybe that’s you living with your aunt and uncle and you thought: what if … I lived on another planet … and what if …
My creative process is ongoing. I don’t follow a script, have no format, no rules. I have characters and I follow them. And how long it takes me to write a book, that depends upon when my character's journey ends.
My recent book, Kailen, took me four years, working on and off, while holding a full time job. While I enjoyed writing it I thought it would never end and I was getting frustrated. My first book, Endings, went quicker although there was a lot of research I had to do. And it was a lot shorter.
I don’t put any limitations on my stories, my characters as far as a time limit. Now when I write non-fiction, that’s a different ball game. I gather my data, form a layout and a structure, and get busy.
To further illustrate how my brain works writing fiction using “What if” … I was going on to the onramp to the freeway and there was a couch sitting right there against the barrier. And I thought, “What if someone was sitting on that couch and a car crashed into it, they could kill somebody!”
And while I was driving I started to form a story in my mind of some guy, late for work, many of his streets were closed off due to workers on the street. And all the detours were making him later and later until by the time he made it to the onramp to the freeway he was driving very fast and only paying attention to the cars on the freeway, when he plows into the couch and the man sitting on it - BAM!
Fill up your writing toolbox with observations. Learn to be an observer - of everything, people, nature, how people talk, what others look like as they hear someone talk to them. Observe what things sound like, smell like, feel like, pain, pleasure - everything. How people think, how you think.
Maybe that boy, Luke, was thinking how wonderful it would be to “what …?” Because he’s feeling “what?” lonely, bored?
That’s a bit of my creative process. My creativity is fueled by observation, paying attention, and care for people.
How long, takes as long as it takes for the story to be told. If I rush it, it becomes a mess, and I’m forcing the story and my character's ability to tell it. That’s not to say that I don’t know what the story is going to be, or even how it’s going to end. I usually have a gray idea of how it’s going to work out - but not always, and not that often.
Many writers have no problem using a strict, or loose, layout. Planning out what’s going to happen in every chapter, every word their characters are going to say. I can’t.
I hope this helps, if just a little. The most important thing is to have fun with it. It’s art. It’s your art.
You’re friend,
Roger
Curiosity is the beginning of inspiration. It looks like this:
“What if …? And then … and then … then what if?
What if there was a boy living with his aunt and uncle …
and what if he was livin on another planet,
and what if he was lonely? Let’s call him Luke.
And then his uncle buys some droids …
and then Luke is cleaning one of the droids and a video message appears with a princess asking for help from one of Luke’s neighbors, Ben Kenobi, but she calls him Obiwan Kenobi.
And then …
There you are, the beginning of Star Wars: Chapter 4 - A New Hope.
Maybe that’s you living with your aunt and uncle and you thought: what if … I lived on another planet … and what if …
My creative process is ongoing. I don’t follow a script, have no format, no rules. I have characters and I follow them. And how long it takes me to write a book, that depends upon when my character's journey ends.
My recent book, Kailen, took me four years, working on and off, while holding a full time job. While I enjoyed writing it I thought it would never end and I was getting frustrated. My first book, Endings, went quicker although there was a lot of research I had to do. And it was a lot shorter.
I don’t put any limitations on my stories, my characters as far as a time limit. Now when I write non-fiction, that’s a different ball game. I gather my data, form a layout and a structure, and get busy.
To further illustrate how my brain works writing fiction using “What if” … I was going on to the onramp to the freeway and there was a couch sitting right there against the barrier. And I thought, “What if someone was sitting on that couch and a car crashed into it, they could kill somebody!”
And while I was driving I started to form a story in my mind of some guy, late for work, many of his streets were closed off due to workers on the street. And all the detours were making him later and later until by the time he made it to the onramp to the freeway he was driving very fast and only paying attention to the cars on the freeway, when he plows into the couch and the man sitting on it - BAM!
Fill up your writing toolbox with observations. Learn to be an observer - of everything, people, nature, how people talk, what others look like as they hear someone talk to them. Observe what things sound like, smell like, feel like, pain, pleasure - everything. How people think, how you think.
Maybe that boy, Luke, was thinking how wonderful it would be to “what …?” Because he’s feeling “what?” lonely, bored?
That’s a bit of my creative process. My creativity is fueled by observation, paying attention, and care for people.
How long, takes as long as it takes for the story to be told. If I rush it, it becomes a mess, and I’m forcing the story and my character's ability to tell it. That’s not to say that I don’t know what the story is going to be, or even how it’s going to end. I usually have a gray idea of how it’s going to work out - but not always, and not that often.
Many writers have no problem using a strict, or loose, layout. Planning out what’s going to happen in every chapter, every word their characters are going to say. I can’t.
I hope this helps, if just a little. The most important thing is to have fun with it. It’s art. It’s your art.
You’re friend,
Roger
I'm happy to know that I'm not the only one who makes those stories up while I'm doing tasks. I'll make sure to have fun with my writing!
Ember
Myles Hunt
Visual Artist & Screenwriter
1
Answer
New York, New York
Updated
Myles’s Answer
My creative process when writing usually involves a combination of doodling, listening to music and going out and about with friends and family. If there is anything that can get the brain moving around in a new or shared perspective, it will show in my writing. Added diverse experiences and immense connections to various elements in the arts prompt new story elements to further expand my writing across all genres.
One things I am currently working on to grow my skill as well as my own creative juices is to break out of my comfort zone a little bit. I am very shy and since I wear hearing aids, being in large social or engaged environments is rather difficult. However, I do know that those social and engaged environments offer some of the best ideas for storylines and added details I have not thought up before. Ironically, in those situations, listening is key. Each conversation I pay attention to, no matter how easy or in-depth, gifts me a better understand of people, which in turn makes me a better creative writer down the line.
Be bold and listen.
One things I am currently working on to grow my skill as well as my own creative juices is to break out of my comfort zone a little bit. I am very shy and since I wear hearing aids, being in large social or engaged environments is rather difficult. However, I do know that those social and engaged environments offer some of the best ideas for storylines and added details I have not thought up before. Ironically, in those situations, listening is key. Each conversation I pay attention to, no matter how easy or in-depth, gifts me a better understand of people, which in turn makes me a better creative writer down the line.
Be bold and listen.
Jennifer Jackson
Film producer/screenwriter
9
Answers
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Updated
Jennifer’s Answer
Hi Ember,
My creative process is a blend of inspiration, discipline, and the occasional caffeine boost! I find that my ideas are sparked by a variety of sources—whether it’s a conversation I overhear, a particularly vivid dream, or just the everyday antics of life around me. People watching can be a rich wellspring of inspiration; characters and their stories often come alive from just a single glance or a fragment of dialogue.
I also tend to jot down thoughts and ideas whenever they strike, whether in my phone or in a trusty notebook. This way, I build a reservoir of concepts to pull from when I sit down to write.
As for completing a book, the timeline varies depending on the project, but I always make sure to set up a writing schedule for myself. I'm a firm believer in the “write every day” mantra, even if it’s just for a short period.
I took a creative writing course at Michigan State, and my professor imparted some invaluable tips that transformed my writing practice. One particularly effective technique is setting a daily goal of 500 words. It might not sound like much, but it quickly adds up! If you commit to writing 500 words a day for five days, that’s 2,500 words—a solid start! Consistently following this approach can lead to around 20 chapters in just four and a half months. Sure, some chapters may require more or less depending on your genre, but generally, this method can help you reach that coveted 50,000-word mark without feeling overwhelmed.
Moreover, this technique is a fantastic way to combat writer’s block. When you have a clear goal in front of you, it’s easier to keep the creativity flowing and maintain your momentum. So, whether you’re a seasoned writer or just starting, I highly recommend establishing a writing routine that fits your lifestyle—your story is waiting to be told!
Best Of Luck,
Jennifer
My creative process is a blend of inspiration, discipline, and the occasional caffeine boost! I find that my ideas are sparked by a variety of sources—whether it’s a conversation I overhear, a particularly vivid dream, or just the everyday antics of life around me. People watching can be a rich wellspring of inspiration; characters and their stories often come alive from just a single glance or a fragment of dialogue.
I also tend to jot down thoughts and ideas whenever they strike, whether in my phone or in a trusty notebook. This way, I build a reservoir of concepts to pull from when I sit down to write.
As for completing a book, the timeline varies depending on the project, but I always make sure to set up a writing schedule for myself. I'm a firm believer in the “write every day” mantra, even if it’s just for a short period.
I took a creative writing course at Michigan State, and my professor imparted some invaluable tips that transformed my writing practice. One particularly effective technique is setting a daily goal of 500 words. It might not sound like much, but it quickly adds up! If you commit to writing 500 words a day for five days, that’s 2,500 words—a solid start! Consistently following this approach can lead to around 20 chapters in just four and a half months. Sure, some chapters may require more or less depending on your genre, but generally, this method can help you reach that coveted 50,000-word mark without feeling overwhelmed.
Moreover, this technique is a fantastic way to combat writer’s block. When you have a clear goal in front of you, it’s easier to keep the creativity flowing and maintain your momentum. So, whether you’re a seasoned writer or just starting, I highly recommend establishing a writing routine that fits your lifestyle—your story is waiting to be told!
Best Of Luck,
Jennifer
Thank you so much! I definitely agree with writing every day and taking things from your notes. I'm constantly thinking about prompts and characters, so notes have been my best friend for a while! I really liked your idea of 500 words a day. You've helped me a lot!
Ember
I’m glad I can help . If you need more information., You can always reach out to me..
Jennifer Jackson
Rich Feitelberg
Novelist
9
Answers
Quincy, Massachusetts
Updated
Rich’s Answer
I get inspiration from many sources but that is why it is important to read widely, watch movies, and write regularly. Often ideas fall out when you aren’t trying too hard. Once I have an idea I think out it and develop characters for the story. Then I can begin writing. The time to finish depends on the story. A short story will take days. A novella months and a novel at least a year or more. Obviously the more time you devote to it the better but you don’t want to over do and burnout. Life will intrude; your job is to persevere and keep going. The first draft is the hardest; once you know what you are trying to say the revisions will go faster. Be sure you have someone to edit and review your work and it helps if you can format and release the result yourself. That will save time. Good luck!
Gregory Glading
Novelist
2
Answers
Polk City, Florida
Updated
Gregory’s Answer
Much of the creative process starts with how you’re wired as a person. Conventional people will tell you to set goals, keep a journal, outline, make note cards , and join a guild. As a sigma with an artistic temperament, I do things unconvincingly. I do things my way and bleep with what anyone else thinks. My motivation is intrinsic. I don’t set goals because I enjoy the process and development of my story and characters. I seldom take notes and only write skeletal outlines, if at all. Beware of talking advice from amateurs. They don’t understand you. Do learn the language and craft. There should be no such thing as a first draft. Rewrite and rewrite again and again as your story progresses. Don’t be afraid to write a lousy passage. You can revise and fill in the blanks later. The most important thing is to get off your gluteus Maximus and write. I write full time. It takes me four to six months to write a book length novel. I don’t know your work and/or study schedule. Just write
Tom Foster
Freelance Writer with a lot of life experience
56
Answers
Forest Grove, Oregon
Updated
Tom’s Answer
Much as I would love to give you an answer, the truth is that you can see what works for some people, but it won't always work for you. As a person who goes where the story directs me, which is a rather chaotic way to write, I can take direction and let my characters do what they like at times. It's a balance of finding the control you need over the story and then letting it loose when necessary. But again, that style doesn't work for everyone.
Find your style, pay attention to how others work, and then walk your own path. Not everything will work for everyone.
Find your style, pay attention to how others work, and then walk your own path. Not everything will work for everyone.
Thank you for taking the time to help.
Ember
June Scheben
Artist/Writer
5
Answers
San Francisco, California
Updated
June’s Answer
The thing about writing is that it varies from person to person. The best advice I can give you is that you should only write for yourself. Never be pressured into being creative, that's not creativity. You will find things that make you excited, use those things as inspiration. You've got this!!
Sierra Burke
Author
4
Answers
Mount Pleasant, Michigan
Updated
Sierra’s Answer
Writing is a process of getting to know a place or a person (if I am lucky, a group of people). Your question started by asking what my process is. I consider myself an organic writer. I know several authors who swear by storyboards and outlines. I have tried these but feel they only cheat my characters out of telling their stories. So, my process is about getting to know my characters as best I am able, and then letting them tell their story.
As for the question of where my inspiration comes from. The answer is life. We all have unique experiences, interactions, and relationships. How we remember these details, the nuggets that resonate with us from these memories, and all of the details that fill our lives can serve to lay the groundwork for a magnificent tale. When I write, I write for myself. I am always reminding myself that I need to be happy with my work. I will never be able to please everyone and it is not my goal to write the next NY Times #1 title. I also work hard to keep my work authentic.
You asked some excellent questions about process and inspiration. I caution about the time to complete a work. When you start thinking about timelines you can quickly lose the joy in writing and let it succumb to the pressures of a job. My first novel took me over three years to write the first version. I did a complete rewrite of the book while writing my second novel and finished the two of them in one year. Writing time is completely subjective to your available time to write, your creative flow, and your available resources. I urge every writer I talk to, to always write for the joy of writing.
I leave you with a few questions:
What inspires you to want to write?
What brings you joy both in writing and in life?
What, or whom, is your greatest muse?
Is writing a passion or a career goal?
Who supports you in your dream to write?
As for the question of where my inspiration comes from. The answer is life. We all have unique experiences, interactions, and relationships. How we remember these details, the nuggets that resonate with us from these memories, and all of the details that fill our lives can serve to lay the groundwork for a magnificent tale. When I write, I write for myself. I am always reminding myself that I need to be happy with my work. I will never be able to please everyone and it is not my goal to write the next NY Times #1 title. I also work hard to keep my work authentic.
You asked some excellent questions about process and inspiration. I caution about the time to complete a work. When you start thinking about timelines you can quickly lose the joy in writing and let it succumb to the pressures of a job. My first novel took me over three years to write the first version. I did a complete rewrite of the book while writing my second novel and finished the two of them in one year. Writing time is completely subjective to your available time to write, your creative flow, and your available resources. I urge every writer I talk to, to always write for the joy of writing.
I leave you with a few questions:
What inspires you to want to write?
What brings you joy both in writing and in life?
What, or whom, is your greatest muse?
Is writing a passion or a career goal?
Who supports you in your dream to write?
Thank you so much for your response! I've also discovered that outlines haven't proven effective for me, so your perspective is greatly appreciated! I agree when you say life inspires you. I've gotten a lot of inspiration from the lives of those around me and the stories of those before us. The joy I receive from writing is rooted in the storylines. I love my characters a lot, but there's something about the actual story itself that has its hold on me. In real life, my joy comes from my research. Researching has always been important to me, and I love how it sticks with me. My muse has to be my younger self. Writing is both my passion and my career goal! I was never able to see myself doing anything else. Writing truly feels like life to me. My biggest supporter has always been my brother!
Ember
Richard Caldwell
Broker
11
Answers
New Windsor, Maryland
Updated
Richard’s Answer
There are lots of great ideas listed above about writing. One key one is to write about what you know. That's the easiest place to start. When you write about something you don't know, you have to research to create a believable scene. There is no shortcut. In foreign locales, being there is the most important requirement to capture authenticity. For example, how do you capture your feelings looking at Roman ruins on the Via Veneto on a warm summer night, looking up at fluted columns that have stood there since before the birth of Christ? Perhaps walk along a dusty street in the marketplace in Rhodes stepping in the same dust where Knights Templar strode over 800 years before.
Write with all your senses, the smell, sound, and taste, as well as sight, to immerse your reader in the scene with you.
Sources of inspiration abound wherever you look. Websites offer daily writing prompts, around which, you can create a story. These are great exercises for your mind to develop writing skills. Don't worry about writer's block. It happens to all of us. Close the laptop and read someone else's story. Above all, read, read, read. Analyze how the author crafts each sentence and carefully chooses each word. Learn from the authors you like to read. Most of all, allow your creativity to wander about the world and have fun.
Write with all your senses, the smell, sound, and taste, as well as sight, to immerse your reader in the scene with you.
Sources of inspiration abound wherever you look. Websites offer daily writing prompts, around which, you can create a story. These are great exercises for your mind to develop writing skills. Don't worry about writer's block. It happens to all of us. Close the laptop and read someone else's story. Above all, read, read, read. Analyze how the author crafts each sentence and carefully chooses each word. Learn from the authors you like to read. Most of all, allow your creativity to wander about the world and have fun.
Charles Smith
Script Writer, Data Entry, Script Reading
1
Answer
Austell, Georgia
Updated
Charles’s Answer
Atlas, while I may not be an author of books, I've found my true calling as a script writer. My passion lies in crafting engaging screenplays and compelling stage plays. Even though I don't write books, I do have a collection of them on the art of creative writing. There's something about fiction that I find absolutely captivating and enjoyable.
Delete Comment
Flag Comment