Read This: Big Magic by Elizabeth Gilbert
Feb 27, 2020
“The universe buries strange jewels deep within us all, and then stands back to see if we can find them.”
We know from our own personal experiences and through our work with other songwriters that fear is the the main source for so many of our creative blocks. It may be a whisper that lives in your subconscious, but if you have found yourself thinking things like “I don’t have anything to say,” “I’m not creative,” or “I’ll never write a good song” . . . trust us when we say it’s there.
That’s why it’s so deeply rewarding and gratifying when an artist we admire as much as Elizabeth Gilbert confirms the persistent presence of fear in her own creative work and arms us with all the tools we need to tame it into obedience. She proves that fear is universal, but that it can (and must) be controlled for creativity to thrive.
So what does fearless creativity really mean?
Let's explore that with some quotes from the woman herself.
- It means embracing the magic of curiosity and letting yourself follow the scent of an idea, not having any clue where it will lead. “Create whatever causes a revolution in your heart. The rest of it will take care of itself.”
- It means taking other people’s opinions with a grain of salt and trusting your gut. “Recognizing that people's reactions don't belong to you is the only sane way to create.”
- It means letting go of the idea of being the first and instead focus on being the first you. “Anyhow, the older I get, the less impressed I become with originality. These days, I’m far more moved by authenticity. Attempts at originality can often feel forced and precious, but authenticity has quiet resonance that never fails to stir me.”
- It means admitting that nothing is perfect and embracing flaws in yourself and in your art. “perfectionism is just fear in fancy shoes and a mink coat,”
- It means accepting that art is challenging and realizing that that’s part of what makes it fun! “Learning how to endure your disappointment and frustration is part of the job of a creative person . . . Frustration is not an interruption of your process; frustration is the process.”
We could go on and on, but this post would be about as long as her book.
Bottom line: if you’re a creative person (and you are), you need to read this book.
It’ll change the way you look at creativity forever, and it will be a resource you come back to again and again whenever you feel like the well is dry or your fear has gotten the best of you.
And to top it off, Gilbert’s writing is vulnerable, relatable, and hilarious. Even though she’s sharing a colossal amount of wisdom, she still sounds like someone you would want to go grab a beer with. (And for the record, we do want to get a beer with you, Elizabeth!)
You can get a copy of it right here. If you’ve read it, do you have a favorite quote? Share yours with us in the comments below!
Happy writing,
Allie & Bess
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