Nobody whispers it in your ear. It is like something you memorized once and forgot. Now it comes back and rips away your breath. You find and finger a phrase at a time; you lay it down cautiously, as if with tongs, and wait suspended until the next one finds you: Ah yes, then this; and yes, praise be, then this.
In Annie Dillard's "The Writing Life," she captures the elusive and powerful experiences of writing. She describes a sensation that feels both familiar and forgotten—like a memory suddenly resurfacing with great intensity. This profound experience is not something easily spoken of; instead, it is felt deeply, stirring emotions that take your breath away.
Dillard further explores the intricate process of writing, illustrating it as a delicate act of discovery. As words and phrases come to her, she handles them with care, as if they are precious objects. This careful selection and the anticipation of each new phrase illustrate the relationship between writer and muse, highlighting the blend of inspiration and effort involved in creating written work.