Ask the Author: Jessica Kantrowitz
Answered Questions (3)
Jessica Kantrowitz
I think so! Depression is a specific mental illness, with specific symptoms and treatments, but the collective fear, grief, confusion, and disorientation we are all experiencing right now can feel similar to depression, and we can find encouragement and grounding in some of the ways of tackling depression I talk about in my book. I also tried really hard to write the book to be a companion, a friend you can hold onto, and that feels even more important now that we are physically isolated from our friends.
Jessica Kantrowitz
I have three suggestions: 1) Keep a journal and write whatever you want in it -- Letters to God or a friend, rants about Boston drivers, story fragments, even lists of things on your mind. You need to let your thoughts flow, and practice your style. 2) Read widely, not just the kind of book you want to write. If you want to be an essayist, read essays, but also novels that speak to your spirit and creativity, and graphic novels that demonstrate plot and suspense. 3) Get outside if you can. The trees and sky and lakes and ocean will expand your spirit, clear your mind, and give you energy and inspiration.
Jessica Kantrowitz
I have a different strategy than many writers. When I have writer's block I just don't write. I take it as a sign that my mind and spirit need to percolate more, that the ideas aren't ready to write down just yet. Things that help me with that percolating are going for a walk or a drive, doing yoga, cleaning my house, and reading reading reading. I know Anne Lamott advocates the "butt-in-chair, shitty first draft" method, but when I try to write before I'm ready it's so demoralizing. If I wait till I'm ready, writing is so joyful. So I'd rather wait. Having said that, I think the majority of people work better with set hours and writing whether they feel inspired or not, so don't necessarily do as I do!
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