Stream-of-consciousness writing is usually regarded as a special form of interior monologue and is characterized by associative leaps in syntax and punctuation that can make the prose difficult to follow, tracing a character's fragmentary thoughts and sensory feelings. Wikipedia
We practised freewriting in high school English and to tell you the truth I wasn’t comfortable allowing my brain free reign in a classroom setting. I was motivated to give it another try after reading this post over at Chronicles of a Novice Writer and this post over at the dull yellow eye.
So—I sat down in the comfort of my own home and wrote non-stop for 27 minutes. The end result was 1,177 words. Did I create a masterpiece? No. But it did get me writing and brought back some interesting memories—nothing of a life altering nature or anything but worth a personal chuckle. I considered posting some or all of my rambling stream but upon reflection decided that everyone would benefit far more from writing their own. :D
If you give this a shot let me know if you gain anything from it. Does anyone have any other exercises or motivational tricks or tools they want to share?
I think I just might give it a shot. I'm trying that 10k thing tomorrow, and I could use it to get in gear to write without thinking. Thanks! I'll let you know what happens.
ReplyDeleteI encourage "free-writing" like that - I tell people ...if you write 2000 words without self-editing, and 1000 of them "suck" - you still have 1000 good words! Love free writing and that's how I begin new works - just zippity do dah day! :)
ReplyDeleteGood luck with the freewriting and the 10k day tomorrow Lazy Writer!! I'll be pulling for you!
ReplyDeleteKathryn-It's encouraging to know what works for a published author, appreciate your input:) I agree free-writing is definitely beneficial.
ReplyDeleteI pretty much always free write...at least I think I do. But maybe I'm editing without realizing it!
ReplyDeleteI love free writing! And the editing doesn't hurt so bad because you know you have to clean it up. Thanks for reminding me.....
ReplyDeleteI love free writing. No you don't typically walk away with pure perfection, but it does get those creative juices working.
ReplyDeleteStephanie-You're lucky, I have a perfectionist block thing going on that wants me to stop and analyse everything. Although I did find with the free writing that my left brain kicked in and started working ahead on the next paragraph...
ReplyDeleteSuzanne-You're welcome! I love it too-- anything goes and worry about the icky details later.
I was thinking about you today quixotic, miss seeing you around. Hope your creative juices are blending on high speed!
ReplyDeleteI love stream of consciousness writing. I never use any of the stuff I write, but it definitely gets my mind working.
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