My own experience (v much a personality thing) is that I needed the scaffolding of technique whilst I found my voice, but I’ve learnt (and unlearnt) enough craft now to trust my own judgement - and also to trust the answer (to why something isn’t working) will turn up eventually.
I do enjoy a lot of the craft chat - especially on technique - it’s more like an adjacent hobby to the writing, however.
So I’m not the only one who has this problem! But then how does one improve, if the very process of learning is counterproductive? This is exactly what I’m struggling with right now. I try to read tons of flash fiction stories published in magazines and books, analyze them for craft, and when it comes time to apply that knowledge, all it does is flood me with expectations. And then I’m stuck, and can only get unstuck by starting work on something else.
And you're such a master of the short form, Meg! I love how, with all those exemplars, models, and prompt words swirling around in your mind, you still enjoy the freedom to sit down and let the words flow. How wonderful that you can tune out the noise and write from the heart. :)
My own experience (v much a personality thing) is that I needed the scaffolding of technique whilst I found my voice, but I’ve learnt (and unlearnt) enough craft now to trust my own judgement - and also to trust the answer (to why something isn’t working) will turn up eventually.
I do enjoy a lot of the craft chat - especially on technique - it’s more like an adjacent hobby to the writing, however.
So I’m not the only one who has this problem! But then how does one improve, if the very process of learning is counterproductive? This is exactly what I’m struggling with right now. I try to read tons of flash fiction stories published in magazines and books, analyze them for craft, and when it comes time to apply that knowledge, all it does is flood me with expectations. And then I’m stuck, and can only get unstuck by starting work on something else.
YES, to this!!
And you're such a master of the short form, Meg! I love how, with all those exemplars, models, and prompt words swirling around in your mind, you still enjoy the freedom to sit down and let the words flow. How wonderful that you can tune out the noise and write from the heart. :)
Exactly! 😊
You'll get no argument from me about that approach. It works!