Ask the Author: Hal Zina Bennett
Answered Questions (5)
Hal Zina Bennett
I've never worried about getting inspired. However, several books I've written actually grew out of my Writing in the Present exercise. Focusing my attention on describing my immediate senses, the song of a bird outside my window, the sight of the green foliage, the hum of the refrigerator in the kitchen, children's voices on the beach two blocks away, even the roar of a truck in the distance, helps to conjure up a scene for a story or even memories from the past. I have an idea that focusing on the senses actually triggers creative activity in the brain.
Hal Zina Bennett
I never tell anybody what I'm writing until I've at least completed the first draft. Telling usually reduces my motivation for completing the project.
Hal Zina Bennett
Write everyday, even if it's just a paragraph or two. Make it part of your everyday life. And anytime you feel it's getting boring, remember that writing is rewriting. I'm always amazed by the number of great suggestions I get from my own editors...and how many small (hopefully) errors they find.
Hal Zina Bennett
Not having to commute.
Hal Zina Bennett
I do something called "Writing in the present," which I've been teaching other writers I've coached for years. It's this simple: Relax, take a few deep breaths, then tune in on what you are hearing, smelling, tasting, feeling right now, in the present. You'll be surprised where it will lead you and how "present" your descriptions become. Sometimes, however, your writing becomes detached from the senses and then you write whatever is going on in your head. Try it.
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