Write what disturbs you, what you fear, what you have not been willing to speak about. Be willing to be split open.
Introduction
In the realm of creative writing, there exists a vast array of guidebooks and manuals, each promising to unlock the writer's potential and reveal the secrets of crafting exceptional prose. Among these, "Writing Down the Bones" by Natalie Goldberg stands out as a timeless classic that has guided aspiring writers for decades. Published in 1986, this book has achieved the status of a revered companion for those seeking to deepen their writing practice and uncover the elusive essence of creativity.
Natalie Goldberg, an accomplished writer and teacher, takes readers on a journey through the art of writing, weaving together her personal experiences, Zen philosophy, and practical advice. Her approach is refreshingly unconventional, emphasizing the importance of writing as a daily practice rather than just a means to a finished product. In this review, we will dig into the heart of "Writing Down the Bones" exploring its key themes, insightful lessons, and enduring relevance in the world of creative writing.
The Zen of Writing
Natalie Goldberg's "Writing Down the Bones" is deeply influenced by her Zen practice, and this influence permeates every page of the book. She invites readers to approach writing with a Zen-like mindfulness, encouraging them to let go of their inner critic and embrace the act of writing as a form of meditation. In this sense, writing becomes a spiritual practice, a means of connecting with one's inner self.
Goldberg's Zen-inspired approach is exemplified by her idea of "writing practice." She emphasizes the importance of regular, unfiltered writing as a way to tap into the subconscious and bypass the self-censorship that often plagues writers. Her famous writing practice directive, "Keep your hand moving" encourages writers to let their thoughts flow freely without judgment or analysis.
The Power of Observation
One of the book's central tenets is the importance of keen observation. Goldberg believes that the writer's ability to observe the world deeply is crucial for creating authentic and vivid writing. She encourages writers to be fully present in the moment, to notice the details that others might overlook, and to translate those observations into their work.
Through her vivid anecdotes and writing prompts, Goldberg teaches us to see the extraordinary in the ordinary. She reminds us that writing isn't just about crafting beautiful sentences; it's about capturing the essence of life itself. By sharpening our powers of observation, we can infuse our writing with authenticity and depth.
The Freedom of "First Thoughts"
"First thoughts" are a recurring theme in "Writing Down the Bones." Goldberg urges writers to embrace the spontaneity of their initial ideas, those unfiltered thoughts that often emerge when we write without inhibition. She believes that these first thoughts are often the most honest and potent, and that they can lead to unexpected and exciting creative breakthroughs.
This concept challenges the notion of perfectionism and the relentless pursuit of polished writing from the outset. Goldberg encourages writers to let go of the need for everything to be "just right" during the early stages of writing. Instead, she advocates for a willingness to make mistakes, to be messy, and to explore the uncharted territories of creativity.
Writing as a Lifelong Journey
While many writing guides focus on the end goal of publication, Goldberg's perspective is refreshingly different. She emphasizes that writing is not just about producing books or stories; it's a lifelong journey of self-discovery and self-expression. This perspective invites writers to find joy in the process itself, rather than fixating solely on external validation.
Goldberg's own experiences as a writer are woven throughout the book, creating a sense of camaraderie with the reader. She shares her struggles, her rejections, and her moments of self-doubt, demonstrating that even seasoned writers face these challenges. This transparency fosters a sense of empathy and reassures aspiring writers that they are not alone in their creative struggles.
The Importance of Writing Prompts
"Writing Down the Bones" is teeming with writing prompts—short, thought-provoking statements or questions designed to kickstart creativity. These prompts are invaluable tools for overcoming writer's block, generating new ideas, and exploring different facets of one's writing style.
Goldberg's prompts cover a wide range of topics, from childhood memories to sensory experiences to character sketches. They are designed to inspire writers to dive deep into their own experiences and emotions, ultimately leading to more authentic and compelling writing.
The Writer's Voice
A crucial aspect of writing, often elusive to many aspiring authors, is finding one's unique voice. Goldberg argues that this voice emerges naturally when writers stay true to themselves and their experiences. She discourages imitation and encourages writers to trust their instincts and intuition.
Through exercises and anecdotes, Goldberg guides readers toward discovering and nurturing their own voices. She emphasizes that it's the writer's distinctive perspective that makes their work compelling and resonant, and this perspective can only be uncovered by embracing one's authenticity.
The Role of Feedback and Revision
While Goldberg champions the importance of unfiltered, spontaneous writing, she also recognizes the value of revision and feedback. She advises writers to let their work sit before revising it and to seek input from trusted readers. This balanced approach acknowledges the need for both creative freedom and the discipline of revision.
Goldberg's insights on revision serve as a reminder that even though writing should be free and uninhibited, it doesn't mean that everything written in the first draft is golden. Revision is where writers refine and polish their work, shaping it into its best possible form.
Overcoming Writer's Block and Resistance
Writer's block and resistance are two formidable foes that all writers encounter at some point. Goldberg tackles these challenges head-on, offering strategies to overcome them. She advises writers to write through resistance, to acknowledge their fears and doubts, and to keep the pen moving, even when it feels difficult.
Her guidance on these topics is both practical and empathetic, reassuring writers that these obstacles are a natural part of the creative process. By acknowledging and confronting them, writers can move past their blocks and continue to nurture their creativity.
The Writer's Mindset
"Writing Down the Bones" also looks into the mindset required for successful writing. Goldberg believes that discipline, commitment, and a willingness to embrace uncertainty are essential traits for any writer. She encourages writers to cultivate a sense of curiosity and wonder, to be open to the world around them, and to view every experience as potential material for their writing.
Goldberg's philosophy on the writer's mindset is a powerful reminder that writing is not just a skill but a way of life, a way of seeing and engaging with the world.
The Legacy of "Writing Down the Bones"
Since its publication in the 1980s, "Writing Down the Bones" has become a beloved and enduring classic in the world of creative writing. Its influence can be seen in the countless writing workshops, retreats, and writing groups that have adopted Goldberg's teachings. Moreover, its message of creative freedom, mindfulness, and the importance of writing as a lifelong journey continues to resonate with writers of all levels and backgrounds.
Conclusion
Natalie Goldberg's "Writing Down the Bones" is a literary gem that has stood the test of time. Its enduring relevance lies in its ability to inspire and guide writers, regardless of their level of experience. Through Zen-inspired wisdom, practical exercises, and heartfelt anecdotes, Goldberg encourages writers to embrace the act of writing as a form of meditation, a way to tap into the rich tapestry of their own experiences.
The book's emphasis on mindfulness, observation, and the power of first thoughts challenges conventional writing wisdom, inviting writers to find their unique voices and trust their creative instincts. Moreover, it provides practical tools for overcoming writer's block, nurturing the writer's mindset, and navigating the dual processes of creation and revision.
Aspiring writers, experienced authors, and anyone interested in the craft of writing can find invaluable guidance and inspiration within the pages of "Writing Down the Bones." It reminds us that writing is not just a means to an end but a journey of self-discovery and expression, a path to uncovering the stories that reside within us all. Natalie Goldberg's enduring message continues to echo: keep your hand moving, trust your voice, and let your bones speak the language of your heart.