Wah!? Write them. Find a way in, then unpack them detail-by-detail. But first you might want to tell them at parties to see if people readily engage. And to see if anyone cites a recent similar story. And to hear how people flesh out the idea with anecdotes from their own lives. In that way the writing process can connect you to the world instead of putting you in isolation.
Wah!? Write them. Find a way in, then unpack them detail-by-detail. But first you might want to tell them at parties to see if people readily engage. And to see if anyone cites a recent similar story. And to hear how people flesh out the idea with anecdotes from their own lives. In that way the writing process can connect you to the world instead of putting you in isolation.
If it helps, I do most of my story exploring in very small groups, or when alone with one other person. And listening is the key. Listen and then prove you've been listening (and not just waiting to speak) by asking questions based on what you've heard. No one feels heard anymore, and if you're a good listener the world will seek you out.
And make eye contact, even while people look away. My Plan B was to become a priest so I could hear Confessions. And people still need someone to tell everything to. So consider that your silence might be a big asset. (nice Amy Hempel picture)
Wah!? Write them. Find a way in, then unpack them detail-by-detail. But first you might want to tell them at parties to see if people readily engage. And to see if anyone cites a recent similar story. And to hear how people flesh out the idea with anecdotes from their own lives. In that way the writing process can connect you to the world instead of putting you in isolation.
Were you raised in a big or small family? I've got an upcoming post about how people from big families grew up having to work hard to be heard.
If it helps, I do most of my story exploring in very small groups, or when alone with one other person. And listening is the key. Listen and then prove you've been listening (and not just waiting to speak) by asking questions based on what you've heard. No one feels heard anymore, and if you're a good listener the world will seek you out.
And make eye contact, even while people look away. My Plan B was to become a priest so I could hear Confessions. And people still need someone to tell everything to. So consider that your silence might be a big asset. (nice Amy Hempel picture)