hope, as Chesterton said, is the power of being cheerful in circumstances that we know to be desperate. Writing can be a pretty desperate endeavor, because it is about some of our deepest needs: our need to be visible, to be heard, our need to make sense of our lives, to wake up and grow and belong. It is no wonder if we sometimes tend to take ourselves perhaps a bit too seriously. So
In Anne Lamott's "Bird by Bird: Some Instructions on Writing and Life," she explores the often challenging nature of writing, likening it to a desperate endeavor. This struggle is rooted in humanity's fundamental desires for visibility, understanding, and belonging. As individuals seek to articulate their experiences and make sense of their lives, it's easy to become overly serious about the writing process, given its profound implications for identity and connection.
Lamott reflects on the concept of hope, citing Chesterton's perspective that it is the ability to remain cheerful in dire circumstances. This sentiment resonates with writers who confront the complexities of their craft. Despite the struggles and the moments of despair that may arise in the creative journey, maintaining a sense of hope becomes essential. It allows writers to navigate their vulnerabilities while pursuing their passion for expressing their truths.
