One
thing that I have learned on my writing journey is that I sometimes write by drawing
on my own true emotions. I recently went through a season of pain – from
physical, to loss, to rejection, heartbreak, to pain caused by persistent worry
over a few life issues. This distressing winter would just never end!
The
story I am currently writing seemed to benefit from all this pain that I was
experiencing as a human—a human who also writes stories. My main character was
going through some pretty hefty pain and sorrow—a pain I have not experienced
in life. Both of us internalize our anguish, where it can fester. I found
myself drawing from my own experiences and emotions while writing this story. I
could feel her agony right down to the bone, as she could feel mine with each
tap of the keyboard. We both benefited from my pain, but also from my faith. Clearly,
the hand of God’s played a role, leading to a healing for both of us in “THE
END”.
Do
you draw on your own experiences or emotions when writing? Do you feel it tough
to do? What about reading an emotional scene? Does it stick with you?
Between
you, me and the gatepost,
Loree
On April 29th, Author Amy Lillard with be back with us. She has her second book coming out, so look for that! Katie's Choice will be released on May 1st.
17 comments:
I have to say probably no. Perhaps the North European background of all my ancestors trained the male side of me to internalize pain and loss. I speak there from the loss of my eldest son due to bi-polar disease. The joy of the natural world which we shared does allow me write in a positive manner though. That's the outside part of me...:)
Whenever possible, I draw on emotions I've experienced. Doing so helps me add depth to a story or a scene. Even if I haven't gone through the situation my character is, it's likely I've felt the same way, and I tap into those feelings as I write.
Yes, and wow, don't you feel emotionally exhausted some days after writing? I have a couple of scenes that stand out in my mind to this day, because I started crying while writing them, and I don't cry that easily...although that's starting to change :(
I do try to draw from my own experiences and emotions, because it helps me tap something deeper, something I might not have known was there otherwise.
Yes, definitely. I can think of one story in particular where I drew a LOT from my own emotions and experiences. And let me tell you, that book was definitely therapeutic for me :)
While I don't go into writing a scene with one of my emotional experiences in mind; I usually find that the character ends up responding to the situation in a way that I can easily relate to. Maybe that's why some authors say that writing is their therapy! ^_^
All the time! I love when I reread it and it still touches me. Glad you are on the mend!
I draw on my emotions when I write and I always seem to find the same healing as my characters. Even though we may not be going through the exact same circumstances, the inner struggle is the same.
Hugs!
Yes, I do. I also have gotten ideas and emotions from prickly people I know for a difficult character.
Yes, I'm learning to tap into those emotions.
I'm so glad I'm not the only one who taps into my emotions big time like I did on this project. Loved all of your comments.
Sorry, I've been engrossed in the terrible news from Boston today. Praying for Boston tonight. Thanks for stopping by everyone!
I don't think I have intentionally set out to put my own emotions on the page, although with some of the stuff I've gone through recently, I've definitely had "I can use this" moments. What's surprising is when I write about certain themes and I realise I am putting my own world-view on things - sometimes views/emotions I didn't even realise I had.
Sorry to hear you've been going through a tough season. I hope the pain alleviates soon.
I do try to draw on my experiences, and I do see them come out in my work, though at a deeper, more subtle level. Usually when I'm writing about family relationships. ;-) I'm learning how to tap into them more and more.
I personally think it's crucial to draw from our own experiences when writing. It gives the scenes honesty.
I hope, Loree, that you've reached the end of that long, difficult chapter. I'd be ready to close the book on mine! :D
But you are right. So much to learn in those seasons, so much fruit that comes from them.
For that, I am truly thankful.
Happy spring, my friend.
Thanks for stopping in everyone! Loved reading your comments. Writers seem to be sensitive people.
I do feel I'm at the end of a difficult chapter, just a few more hurdles. I have learned so much about myself and others. The sun is shining right now, that's all that matters.
My best answer is sometimes. I know that always sounds like a cop out, but I can't say I've experienced all that my characters have and sometimes it's better to imagine their feelings and reactions.
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