Few writers have the luxury of earning a living solely from their writing. Most of us juggle a day job and write in the cracks of time when we can.
This week I am going to return to one of my Big Magic conversations from three years ago. It’s based on the 4th chapter of the book – Persistence.
In this chapter, Liz Gilbert discusses that most creatives, through the ages, didn’t have enough money to live from their art – and that it is normal to have to put in that extra effort in the early mornings or late evenings. She urges the reader not to wistfully look to someone else to support you but to take charge of your life, do whatever work you have to and put all of that into your artistic work.
Below are some of my favourite quotes from this chapter. (Or scroll to the end of this email now to watch the video.)
“People don’t do this kind of thing because they have all kinds of extra time and energy for it: they do this kind of thing because their creativity matters to them enough that they are willing to make all kinds of extra sacrifices for it. Unless you come from the landed gentry, that’s what everyone does.” (p. 155)
“Most individuals have never had enough time, and they’ve never had enough resources, and they’ve never had enough support or patronage or reward… and yet still they persist in creating. They persist because they care. They persist because they are called to be makers, by any means necessary.” (p. 158)
“This a world¸ not a womb. You can look after yourself in this world while looking after your creativity at the same time – just as people have done for ages. What’s more, there is a profound sense of honour to be found in looking after yourself, and that honour will resonate powerfully in your work; it will make your work stronger.” (p. 154)
“I was always willing to work hard so that my creativity could play lightly. In so doing, I became my own patron; I became my own studio wife.” (p.156)
Finally, even the literary greats had these struggles. Herman Melville, author of Moby Dick, wrote to a friend:
“complaining that he simply could not find time to work on his book about that whale because, ‘I am so pulled hither and thither by circumstances.’” (p. 158)
Please know that you are not alone in your struggles to find the time to write. Just plod on as best you can with what you have.
Enjoy the video. You’ll also find an interesting discussion on perfectionism and dealing with rejection.
Audio only:
You can see all of these Big Magic conversations by clicking on this link. They show in reverse order so scroll to the bottom for episode one!
Also check out Lesley Pyne’s work about healing through creativity at https://lesleypyne.co.uk/, especially if you are suffering because of childlessness.
Plodding gently
Cali x
Photo by Christina @ wocintechchat.com on Unsplash
I love that you are taking me back to this book - I need to pull that out again! A friend sent me that book a number of years ago. Thanks Cali. Such a reminder too that we do not have to be perfect in any way shape or form to put something lovely and helpful out into the world.