June 7, 2010

Carolyn See’s book, Making a Literary Life-Advice for Writers and Other Dreamers, has been an inspiration for me since it was first published in 2002. From time to time, I take it from my bookshelf and read sections to jumpstart my thinking and sustain my efforts to write daily.  It seems only fitting that as I write my first blog entry, I acknowledge the importance of a book that has sustained me in my efforts to keep on writing through rejection letters.

 Following the Pros

  One of the best pieces of advice embedded in See’s work involves making lists: a list of goals, a mailing list, a list of the ten most important people in your life. Yes, the important people list may give the writer a means of discovering an important character for an upcoming novel.

            To do lists fall into that category, too.

 It’s a proven fact. My daily productivity definitely improves when I am in the list-making mode—

1)   Finish the outline for the novel

2)   Write the query for the picture book

3)   Email chapter to the critique group

4)   Pick up the book on reserve at the library

You get the idea. Lists are a wonderful aid to the mind.

            Recently I got a whole new respect for the value of list- making.   At an institute session of the 2010 International Reading Conference in Chicago, I got a preview copy of Blue Balliett’s new middle grade novel, The Danger Box. I couldn’t wait to start reading it.

            The plot of Balliett’s book is fascinating and reveals the importance of lists in the life of a young boy trying to make sense of his complicated world. Artfully, the author weaves into the plot the lists of a famous historical personality, whose writing is key to the novel’s suspense. I won’t tell you more. You must read the book yourself. When you do, take note of those lists.

About the same time that I was reading The Danger Box, a friend mentioned that her book discussion group had just completed The Wise Heart by Jack Kornfield and the material generated great sharing.  I bought a copy and started reading. When I got to page fifty, the author, explaining Buddhist psychology, mentioned that the wisdom of Buddha is transmitted by means of lists:  three characteristics, four foundations, five hindrance.  Hmm!  That struck a familiar note.  

Generating Material for a Blog

            Beginning a blog has been on my “to do” list for quite some time. Deciding on a focus was the hard part.  Finally, it occurred to me that by keeping lists related to my reading and writing, in whatever format they occur, I can generate content for my blog.  In addition, going to meetings, interacting with other writers, recording thoughts related to their comments on leading a literary life are experiences I can share here.  So today’s the day! Reading a quote from Goethe, nudged me into action.

            “Whatever you can do, or dream you can, begin it. Boldness has genius, power and magic in it.”