The Cure For Writers Block?

By: Samantha Ryan (Guest Writer)

It never occurred to me that I might, one day, write about writing. To be perfectly honest, the whole idea seems absolutely outrageous. Ridiculous, even. Day after day of deliberation has passed, and although I’ve wracked my mind of every possible topic that has to do with writing, I cannot seem to focus in on one specific prompt. It seems I have reached an impasse—a writer’s worst and most treacherous enemy: Writer’s Block.

            It seems, however, that within this battle, I have found my goal. This enemy has lowered their sword and opened their arms, as if to say, “Here I am, right where you want me.” As I take up arms, I find my resolution. I have defeated this fiend using exactly the same strategy I wish to convey.

            As I stated before, writer’s block can be one of the most harmful mental blocks that exists, especially within the world of writing. I have encountered this beast numerous times, though I have only discovered one weakness. So many essays, short stories, and poems have been put off because of this crippling ailment, and I know very well how troubling and frustrating it can be.

            Writer’s block, though difficult to overcome it may seem, is actually quite simple to beat. Of course, I am positive there are other methods, but this is the only strategy I have seen with a substantial success rate. Keep in mind, there is always the possibility that you might still find yourself battling away, fruitlessly, even with my advice. In that case, it is up to you to defeat him. And with that, I give you my strategy: fight fire with fire.

            Write.

            Write about absolutely nothing, if you’d like. Argue pointless arguments, write thoughts or ideas down, random words strung together until you’ve found usable material. My own personal preference, though, is to record exactly what I’m thinking at a particular moment, and as my train of thought develops, so do my ideas. Sometimes the defeat is quite sudden. Other times, I have found it to be tedious and unending. Either way, each time I’ve used this method I have found inspiration and the ability to write again.

            Writer’s block is elusive. He disguises himself and prods the mind into a different direction—I should really start that paper…but I’ve got laundry to do.