Facing the Granite Wall: Writing Struggles and Insights
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Chapter 1: The Illusion of a Blank Canvas
The notion that a writer encounters a blank abyss is misleading; rather, it's akin to confronting an impenetrable granite wall.
While it may seem like an endless void, the reality is that we often face a solid barrier. This might resemble a three-foot thick wall of rebar-reinforced concrete that keeps us from breaking through to the other side. Regardless of the metaphor you prefer, the truth remains: these obstacles are self-created.
As time passes—weeks morph into months, and months drag on into years—one might wonder what the eventual outcome will be. Will the royalties and bylines serve as your "rock hammer," chiseling away at that wall? Or do you find yourself questioning, "Is this darkness within me as well?"
Remember, you are not staring into an abyss; you are repeatedly striking your head against a granite surface, trying to carve your narrative with a hefty cudgel. Expect intermittent setbacks, as there will be no leniency, no early parole from this struggle.
Section 1.1: Who Are You in This Struggle?
So, who do you aspire to be: The Hunger Artist, The Birdman, or Andy Dufresne? Contrary to the portrayals in Hollywood, everyone behind this particular wall carries guilt—there are no innocent souls, only those who have chosen their battles.
Subsection 1.1.1: The Hermetic Path
As for me, I find myself gravitating towards the first archetype, supported by an ever-diminishing circle of companions. As I inch closer to a solitary existence, I discover that my needs are fewer, and perhaps, I have less to lose.
But I’m left pondering: Is this realization a blessing or a curse?
You might find yourself in a similar conundrum, as you read these words instead of crafting your own.
Section 1.2: The Weight of Your Words
Your words are composed of countless RGB pixels, refreshing at a rate of 50 to 85 Hertz.
Your unique phrases, hammered out on miniature mechanical devices or a whirring Times New Roman 12-pt font, represent your thoughts.
Your thoughts traverse the pages of numerous black marbled Mead notebooks, forming ideas into coherent narratives.
Why?
Why do you hesitate?
Because it’s not an endless abyss; it’s a granite wall, and that’s perfectly acceptable.
I find myself in the same predicament.
Chapter 2: The Soundtrack of Struggle
In the journey of writing, music often serves as a backdrop to our thoughts and struggles.
Experience the haunting lyrics of "We Are The Empty - The Abyss," capturing the depth of creative struggle.
The soundtrack of our endeavors can both inspire and reflect our inner turmoil.
Listen to "We Are The Empty - The Abyss (Official Audio)" to immerse yourself in the emotions of the writing process.