C.S.Barnes
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Blog

On Writing: Free writing

11/13/2020

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Some of my students are struggling to get in the creative mindset, given the new lockdown restrictions that have been rolled out. I discussed one or two techniques with them last week but, as always, I stand by free writing as a way to loosen cogs. After all, "The water does not flow until the faucet is turned on." (Louis L'Amour)

This morning, before we talked about the nitty-gritty dirty work of editing, I gave my students five minutes to scribble ideas in response to a picture. And, because we need to practice what we preach, I joined in...

Picture
These things, as they often do, started innocently enough. But, like bad debt, I found the more I poured in the more I poured after, throwing good intention after bad. Addiction feels like a term that should be reserved for those worse off than me. But with every ring of, "Just once more," I felt sicker and sicker in myself - or, with myself. Like light chasing after shadow, good after bad, I promised this one - this very last one - would be a line in the sand. It was easier to make that promise, too, because I really didn't think I'd have the guts to steal someone's heart a second time. 

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  • Home
    • More about me >
      • Dear Listener
      • Writer in Residence (The Swan Theatre)
      • Worcestershire Poet Laureate >
        • Hard times happen
        • Home - with Amnesty International >
          • 'Windows' by Ellie Walsh
          • 'For Walls' by Polly Stretton
          • 'A place of safety' by Brian Comber
        • Truth and Confession
  • From the Body
    • From the Body: Submission details for the second call-out
    • From the Body: FAQ
    • From the Body: Submission details
  • Services
    • Writing courses
    • Editorial services
    • Tutoring services
    • Mentoring
  • My publications
  • Blog
  • Contact