I know some very great writers, writers you love who write beautifully and have made a great deal of money, and not one of them sits down routinely feeling wildly enthusiastic and confident. Not one of them writes elegant first drafts. All right, one of them does, but we do not like her very much. We do not think that she has a rich inner life or that God likes her or can even stand her. {Although when I mentioned this to my priest friend Tom, he said that you can safely assume you've created God in your own image when it turns out that God hates all the same people you do.}
In her book "Bird by Bird," Anne Lamott shares insights on the writing process, highlighting that even highly successful writers often struggle with self-doubt and lack enthusiasm. Contrary to popular belief, writing is not always a straightforward endeavor. Most writers do not produce flawless first drafts, and the notion that there is a "perfect" writer is more of a myth. Lamott's candid perspective reveals that the journey of writing is filled with challenges and imperfections, making it relatable for many aspiring authors.
Moreover, Lamott's reflection on the richness of a writer's inner life contrasts the common perception of the seemingly flawless writer. She humorously notes a particular writer who does create elegant first drafts but lacks depth, suggesting that a fulfilling inner life is essential for meaningful writing. This commentary extends to spiritual beliefs, as she notes that aligning with God often reveals personal biases. Overall, Lamott encourages writers to embrace the struggle and imperfections inherent in the craft.
