I thrive in quiet spaces.
I'm like a sheep that the Psalm 23rd shepherd leads beside still waters.
My writing gets done in several environments, but they share the common quality of quiet. Noise, sounds, music, and even the sound of a television show in a distant room are annoying distractions. I write best behind closed doors.
Most of my writing life is spent in a backroom in our home at an antique, roll top desk. My wife describes the desktop as a nightmare. It’s the opposite of quiet. It holds trophies awarded to our sons, books, pictures, a lantern, artwork, collectible Coke bottles and Jones soda bottles and items from Ukraine. It's a beast to dust.
There's a B&W framed picture of me holding my grandfather’s Chihuahua in front of his ’57 Chrysler when I was three years old.
Those items don't inspire my writing; they inspire my life because they’re rooted in history and the people who mean the world to me.
My favourite quote is taped to the front portion of the roll top.
“Concerning all acts of initiative in creation, there is one elementary truth the ignorance of which kills countless ideas and splendid plans: that the moment one definitely commits oneself, then Providence moves too. And all sorts of things occur to help one that would never otherwise have occurred. A whole stream of events issues from the decision raising in one’s favor all manner of unforeseen incidents, meetings and material assistance which no man could have dreamed could have come his way.”
Scottish mountaineer W.H. Murray
I write something every day without fail.
Some days there's only three sentences. Other days, there's 3000 words. The outcome is determined by other responsibilities but also my frame of mind. I can easily bear down and focus when I'm inspired. A few hours feel like minutes. I imagine you know the feeling.
There are few things more fulfilling than hitting the publish button.
That quiets my heart.
This is a lovely post, Bob. Your quotation of W. H. Murray's words spoke to my heart, particularly these words "the moment one definitely commits oneself, then Providence moves too." Waffling does not lead to success.
ReplyDeleteLike you, I write in quiet, without music and away from noise. And I appreciate your yearly rhythm, as well. Summer seems to pull me away from my desk. You've given our blog readers much to ponder today. Thank you.
I share your sentiment of having special mementos surrounding me in my writing space and a peaceful environment in which to reflect. Your favourite passage is thought provoking and I've copied it to reread it later.
ReplyDeleteThanks for a peek into your writer’s book and your habits. I like “ I write something every day without fail. Some days there's only three sentences. Other days, there's 3000 words” It links your life to the W. H. Murray quotation, which I have copied for my collection. Thanks for another wonderful and inspiring post.
ReplyDeleteThank you Bob. I hear the rhythm in your words. Every day. The Lord has asked me to write every day. I journal daily. Sometimes poetry or aha moments or prayers of awe. I feel overwhelmed at the prospect of being capable to write daily as I feel so new to writing. I need to trust the Lord to lead me there.
ReplyDeleteHi Bob! I am a beside still waters guy as well. Ahh, the sweet presence of quiet! I love the contrast you make between the "items" that inspire your writing and your life. Keep on writing, brother, and may God bless you with many opportunities to quiet your heart.
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