Writing is one of the loneliest professions in the world because it has to be practiced in this very separate private world, in _here_. Not in the mind; in the imagination. And I think it is possible that the writing of fantasy is the loneliest job of the lot, since you have to go further inside. You have to make so close a connection with the unconscious that the unbiddable door will open and the images fly out, like birds.
Writing is often considered an isolating profession, as it requires deep engagement in a private realm that is disconnected from the external world. This solitude is particularly pronounced in the genre of fantasy, where authors delve even deeper into their imagination. To create vivid worlds and characters, writers must cultivate a profound relationship with their subconscious, allowing creativity to flourish and manifest in unique ways.
The process involves venturing into the inner psyche, where inspiration can emerge unexpectedly, much like birds taking flight. This intricate connection between the conscious mind and the unconscious is vital for bringing fantasy to life, making the writing journey an intensely personal and sometimes lonely experience. As Susan Cooper reflects, the act of writing calls for a brave exploration of one's inner landscape, transforming solitude into a source of artistic richness.