Writer's Inspiration

I don't know about you, but writing inspiration for me can come in many forms. This particular morning, it is in the simple joy of a gorgeous sunny morning. Granted, that may be because I can count on one hand the number of sunny days I have experienced since April. But it doesn't change the immense joy I feel in seeing a blue sky, bright green leaves, marshmallow cream clouds, and hearing birds singing. Mornings like this are perfect for writing - for inserting realism into your book by simply writing what you actually see and feel.

I used to chafe at the constant instruction from experienced writing masters to only "Write What You Know" - until I finally realized that they weren't necessarily saying you were only allowed to write about your own experiences. They were just saying that, if you have experienced a certain emotion, country, or day - insert that into your book, because you know just how your character would feel during that experience and it will feel all the more real. At least, that is how I have chosen to interpret their instruction, and I will thank  you not to pop my little bubble.

And, while I may still be grimacing at the thought of the days upon days of gloomy, rainy days, the truth is, that too may end up in a book. Because now I have no doubt as to how a character might feel if caught in the rain, with no glimpse of sun, for days on end.

So there is my suggestion for the day as I arrogantly pretend to be experienced! Take anything that causes you immense emotion - whether joy or sorrow - and insert it into a story.