Hebrews 10:25 (KJV): Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching.
Writing is a solitary occupation. It makes hermits of us,
unless we take deliberate steps to prevent that outcome.
Of course, if hermitry is the life one prefers, then so be
it.
Most of us, however, need interaction with other human
beings—something beyond social networking sites and e-mail activity. That
blending of minds and personalities breathes life into us, provides fodder for
our imaginations (always a good thing for a writer!), and keeps us from
becoming stale, uninteresting, unhealthy…and unproductive.
We cloister ourselves inside our offices, fingers to
keyboard, rear to chair—exactly as we've been taught. We insist that it's
necessary to shut out the real world in order to create fictitious ones. But in
reality, a lack of contact with people and real-life situations shows up in our
writing as dull, cardboard characters and lifeless storylines that will never
see print.
It is possible to find that human connection without
allowing our writing time to suffer. And even if it does—if we're writing three
hours each day instead of four—isn't it worth it if the words we write sparkle
with life and energy?
One day a week, write
somewhere besides your office.
Coffee shops (or even a local McDonald's) provide a great
opportunity to observe others, hear real conversation, and absorb the energy of
human contact. Take your laptop along. You can write…or just make character
notes. Listen in on a conversation or two. Observe the various expressions and
body language of the customers. (Note: DO buy a cup of coffee, maybe even a
pastry. You'll find yourself far more welcome next time you go.)
Go to the park and get some fresh air. No Wi-Fi, but admit
it…you'll do more writing when you don't have access to the internet.
Writing in your local library provides a chance to get
acquainted with the librarians, which might lead to a reading and/or book
signing. Donate a book—they'll love you for it.
Join a local writers
group.
Check the internet or your local phone directory. Inquire at
ACFW or RWA. Most of the time, you'll find a group within easy driving
distance.
Can't find a group? Start one! A little ad in the newspaper
or your church bulletin is sure to render some response. Even 3-5 writers who
want to get together and brainstorm is a start. The more diverse your members
as far as writing experience, the better. New writers are excited and eager,
and that enthusiasm will make itself felt in the group. Experienced authors can
be of benefit to each other and help the newbies develop their craft.
Attend church
functions.
Not just services, although those are important. Go to
potlucks—they don't happen often, and they provide much-needed fellowship and
activity. Join the ladies' group or the praise team. Do something that forces
you away from your desk and into life.
Find a place to
volunteer.
Sometimes the best way to help yourself is to help someone
else. Be a blessing…and it will come back to you, "pressed down, shaken
together, and running over." (Luke 6:38)
I'm sure there are plenty of other routes to take. Let's
talk about them. What keeps you from becoming a "hermit writer"?
Delia Latham
(c) 2012
Love in the Wings
(Heart's Haven Easter Collection, Book 4)
(Heart's Haven Easter Collection, Book 4)
When a spiritual attack on Angel Falls lands Aria and Corbin on the battlefront as part of a team of prayer Warriors in God's Service (WINGS), they must fight for their town, their church, and their pastor, and Aria sees Corbin in a whole new light.
But emotional scars from an unspeakable childhood have distorted Corbin's acceptance of certain Scriptural truths, and Aria won't trust her heart in the hands of a man whose faith is unsure. Aria wraps her prayer wings around him tightly. Will Corbin finally trust God to heal his soul?
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Feeling out of touch? Producing lackluster writing? Step away from your desk! http://ow.ly/wgIbr @delialatham
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