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"Off the Cuff": How to Write When Your Muse Has Taken a Break
Writing Isn't Everything: Look for the Positives.
I am sitting here with my lap top on the table near our front door and staring out the window. I had been here for about an hour on and off before I managed to even come up with a title for this hub and manage to type the first word.
That's no big deal really as the view through the window and across our front garden is great. Spring is here and we have had recent rain, all plants are thriving and beginning to bud and flower. I spent a few hours in the garden yesterday weeding and planting new seeds (capsicum/sweet peppers) and cuttings of what is called the "cancer tree"(don't know the botanical name sorry). It is said that if you eat two leaves off it everyday it will keep you cancer free. Oh, and I also planted out some silver beet and spinach from pots into the garden.
I counted six kangaroos and wallabies grazing on the new green grass shoots just the other side of the garden while I have been sitting here contemplating what to write. I considered making this the next addition of "The Diary of a Cackleberry Farmer" and sitting on it for a few more weeks but decided against that and just make it a stand alone essay.
“There is nothing to writing. All you do is sit down at a typewriter and bleed.”
— ― Ernest HemingwayA Poem for Cyrus
Dear little boy
You were born today,
Cyrus Jax,
Not Billy Ray.
♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥
Your Mum and Dad
Are oh so proud,
While Pa John and Granny
Are on a cloud.
♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥
A big new world
You've come into,
So much to experience,
To see and to do.
♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥
You won't do much
For a month or two,
Just drink your milk
And whoopsy doo.
♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥
But soon you'll grow
And be aware,
For the first few years
There will be no cares.
♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥
You'll feel the love
From far and wide.
Your big bro Taidan
Will be your guide.
♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥
You'll never want,
Or go without.
You are so special
Without a doubt.
♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥
So remember this date
October one,
A special day
For a second son..
My Muse Took a Hike
I have been managing to churn out about one hub per week which is OK, and add another if a fellow hubber issues a challenge (which I am unable to resist). However I always yearn to write more. I wouldn't say I get writer's block but I do have occasions like now where I don't know where my inspiration is going to come from. When this happens I usually hear a song, or some news story or conversation may spark an idea. This week I am sick of waiting for that inspiration and decided to 'take the bull by the horns' and just write something off the cuff.
Fellow hubber and friend Missy Smith wrote a wonderful poetry hub "A Poetic Notion" recently with a similar theme, so it may seem like I am stealing her idea but as I said in the comment on her hub, I had been considering writing something very random and she just beat me to it. I thank her for encouraging me to go ahead and write this anyway. Also I often refer to my wife Kathy as 'my muse' and she has gone away to Darwin for six weeks to help out my son Trent, his wife Cheenee, and our grandson Taidan for the birth of their second baby. In fact I just received word this morning (Oct 2nd 2015) that our new grandson Cyrus Jax Xavier Hansen(how original is that name?) has come into the world.
Putting Pen to Paper, or Finger to the Keyboard.
Well by the time I finish writing this sentence I will have written around 480 words already. Not bad for starting to write this essay with no plan or subject in mind other than writing randomly. It proves the point that you can always sit down and write something, inspiration or not. You just have to put your finger to the keyboard or pen to paper and start to write.
What you churn out may be a heap of rubbish that ends up in the trash can (either real or on your virtual desk top), and then again it may turn into the best original piece of writing you have ever done. You never know! It is better to write something, anything, than nothing at all. That sounds like a quote about love doesn't it?
“Substitute 'damn' every time you're inclined to write 'very;' your editor will delete it and the writing will be just as it should be.”
— ― Mark TwainWhat is Freedom?
Have you ever stopped to think what true freedom is in writing? I mean, writing, along with the other arts like painting, drawing, dance, sculpture etc etc, is an ultimate form of expression. If you just write to express your thoughts and for your own pleasure, or in the form of journal or diary, you can write anything you wish without worrying about the opinions of others, spelling, grammar and punctuation. This is the true freedom of writing.
When you start to take writing seriously and putting your words out there for others to see you lose some of that freedom. Especially if you want to be taken seriously as a writer, or even make it your career. When you begin to write online, for magazines, publications, even newspapers you have to exercise restraint and control. You need to use tools like spell check, write drafts and check and recheck your work before publishing it.
If you don't do this your work will not be published, or if it is you will probably attract a barrage of criticism as to the quality of your writing. Freedom of expression is still there, but there are now constraints put on it. There are lots of tools out there to help make writing easier and more polished but in using them some of the purity and spontaneity is lost.
My friend Missy suggested after reading my "Ode to Miss Muffet" poem (a parody on the ability of spell check to pick up on incorrectly used words) that I try writing a random poem totally without the use of spell check and without correcting any errors myself, and believe me I am tempted. The trouble with that for me is that some of the keys on my keyboard tend to stick, especially the 's' and 'l' keys for some reason, which results in some words missing those letters.or in the case of "s" being typed twice.
The second problem is the new "editbot' that has been introduced at Hub Pages. If I attempted to write such a poem my hub would be covered in "editbot" corrections. So Missy, thanks for the suggestion but unfortunately I can't really do that. I will do a rough draft on paper though just for my record. You are welcome to come check it out :)
- I just wrote the "Poem for Cyrus" without a rough draft and ignoring spell check Missy, but I think it turned out OK. I just added a couple of words to the spell check dictionary.
Cracking 1000 Words
I just checked the word count on this hub and I am already over 1000, so I seem to be on a roll. Once I start writing some strange supernatural force takes over and I just can't stop...well I can, but I have to actually force myself.
Writing randomly like this is quite invigorating and really so much fun. Not having to research the information, spend hours searching for suitable images and photos online etc. It certainly is my preferred form of writing.
The fact that this essay may be of some help to others in how they approach writing is a bonus but it wasn't really the original aim.That being said I like everything I write to have some value or message, even if it doesn't have rhyme or reason (I may have to change that statement though if I decide to add a poem to this. Then again it could be free verse and not rhyme.)
“If there's a book that you want to read, but it hasn't been written yet, then you must write it.”
— ― Toni MorrisonWhen writing hubs, do you...?
Ticking All the Boxes
My sights are now on the goal of writing 1250 words and I am on the downhill run with less than eighty to go. My eye is on the finish line, but then nothing says I have to stop there does it? If I want I can write 2000 or 3000 words. Who's going to stop me? Wow, the adrenalin rush! It's like riding a bike downhill at breakneck speed, the wind rushing through your hair, and then realizing you have no brakes! Well, bring it on. (1252 and counting)
Now the question is, do I try to tick all the other boxes for photos, videos, polls etc...hmm. I usually decide to prostitute myself and include these just to try and make my hubs "evergreen" and more attractive. If you are reading this you will already know what I decided. I will at least include a few pics I have taken myself, but I haven't decided on the rest yet.
I often add all the bells and whistles to my poetry hubs in particular to bring them closer to Hub Pages preferred standard, but some other poets have made me question this, saying that good poetry should be able to stand on it's own merits. They do have a point and it's a choice we poets all have to make as individuals.. "To bow or not to bow, that is the question."
Here's a random video, but I like the song.
Finally, If You Are Stuck for Words
I'd like to finish up with a little advice if all else fails and you are still stuck for words:
Step away from your computer. It doesn't matter what time of day or night it is. Just walk outside, take a deep breath of air (unless you live in Beijing, Mexico City etc where that may be harmful), and experience nature, or street life if you live in the inner city. Or you could even try sky diving like my son :)
Observe everything around you, the stars, landscape, street lights, traffic, people etc. Give it a good half hour, then walk back inside and return to your computer. I am sure you will feel differently and there is a good chance you will suddenly be inspired to write something, and guess what? I can't wait to read it, whatever it may be. (total word count: 1930)
© 2015 John Hansen
Comments
- Author
Thank you for reading another of my hubs Francia. HubPages is a very large community and I am constantly coming across other hubbers whose work I have not had the pleasure of reading before. It is often only by seeing a comment in forums or on a hub of someone you follow that appeals, that you discover them. I appreciate your kind words.
Being brought to your hubs by your comment on my hub was something to be thankful for. Now I am reading another hub of yours and I am enjoying the moment. Really good writing style Jodah! I like your grandson's photo, your garden and your son's skydiving.
- Author
Hi Geri, I am glad you found this hub. It was one that I really enjoyed writing and was hopeful would provide some inspiration to others. I for one am always trying to extend my writing and try something different. I guess I get bored easily doing the same things. Thanks for the kind comment about my family, area I live and congratulations on the birth of my grandson too. Once upon a time I would not write about or include photos of my family but I found it helps readers really connect with you and treat you as a friend, so now I do it regularly. Hope you have a great New Year.
Jodah, I just came across this article of yours and was quite hooked from beginning to end. So often we feel like we have to "write inside the box," but you have demonstrated here that you can engage readers by doing otherwise. This is a great challenge as well as inspiration for us, or at least most definitely for me. I loved all the photos you included of your yard and family -- they added so much value to your content. You live in a beautiful area and congratulations on your most recent grandson!
- Author
Thank you for reading Swalia, and glad you liked the closing advice. Happy New Year.
I really liked the concluding advice in this hub. It generally works!
- Author
Mary, thank you for those lovely words. Once upon a time I wouldn't have shared very much about my family and personal life but as I began to make friends here I realised "why not?" And people do seem to like to read personal stories and get to know you more. Yes Cyrus certainly does have a good head of hair. I think that is the Filipino influence there. Cheers.
Your writer's voice is our joy to behold. This 'spontaneous' hub is filled with helpful information, interesting facts, a great poem, cool pictures, and a new grandson. It's epic!
Every time we let the outside world into our mind we share a piece of ourselves and become that much more dear to our readers. You've certainly done that here.
Congratulations on grandson number two! He is adorable and oh, what a head of hair.
- Author
Lawrence, I write some of both, but enjoy the "off the cuff" ones most. Thanks for reading and voting.
John
Got to admit, I like research. I love to research my hubs, but occasionally one just 'flies onto the screen' so I ticked the 'occasionally off the cuff' but I've no idea when the next will strike!
Lawrence
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Ann, I really appreciate this wonderful comment. Thanks for confirming my suggestion just beginning to write anything can lead to the story or article just taking over and producing something great. Glad you liked those quotes and the Keating song, and Cyrus' name too.
What a great hub this is, especially as it's 'off the cuff'. Even with an idea in my head, I do sometimes find that if I just write then the story takes over and surprises me. Writing something, no matter what, each day is great advice though.
Love the Hemingway and Twain quotes and that Ronan Keating song is lovely. Beautiful poem and congratulations to all on the birth of Cyrus. I like that name.
Sharing.
Ann
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Good to see you Eric. When I think real hard my head hurts. Writing off the cuff seems to be more satisfying and thankfully the words usually make some sort of sense because they are coming from the heart and not contrived. Glad you get some insight into my thoughts from my writing. Thanks again.
A wonderful insightful piece. I just noticed that when people think real hard about what they write it is hard to tell what they think. When they write on like this you get a better look at their thoughts. I like where your head is at.
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Haha Kim, always happy to teach someone a new word. You had me wondering at first what that word may be..but then I saw "whoopsy doo".. and realised. I am honored that you have adopted it as your new happy word. Yes Cyrus Jax certainly has a good head of hair on him :) possibly because his mom is Filipino. Thank you for all the kind words.
John,
As one of your many fans, hopefully you know by now you never disappoint me. I love everything about this hub, but besides the adorable poem and pic of your grandson (what a head of hair-smiles), you introduced me to a new word. That's right: a word that I know has become my happy word for every time I say it, I can't help but smile: 'whoopsy doo."
Congratulations on your new edition (love his name) and Thank You for Being You!
Kim
- Author
Thank you for reading this hub Smilealot. Glad to hear that this may actually be of help to you, Thanks also for the congratulations on the birth of my grandson. I am sure he will provide further inspiration.
Lacking inspiration to write is really frustrating, this article will be very useful to a lot of writers. I particularly like the freedom writing exercise that you described, I intend to give that a go. Congratulations on the birth of your grandson John, you must be very proud. I loved the poem you wrote for him, I'm sure he will provide the inspiration to write many more:-))
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Thanks for reading Brian, glad you found these suggestions helpful. thanks for haring what inspires you, and yes, studying at the Writers Studio would be a big help.
Great job starting with a seed and growing a tree! Some great suggestions here. I am often inspired by great poets, great stories, and things that pop into my head in the shower, or any time I don't have my notebook or recorder. Of course, studying at the Writers Studio helps, too.
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What was that Flourish.."He takes after his grandpa"? lol Thank you for reading and the congratulations.
- Author
Hi Larry, I know the feeling. i hope this helps somewhat. I can feel another of your comedy hubs coming on :) (hint)
- Author
Hi Deb, yes a lot of my recent hubs seem to be created that way. Cheers.
- Author
Hi Jackie, yes it seems most of most my recent hubs have been totally unplanned and just develope from some random thought that pops into my head. At times like this when even a concrete idea seems to allude me I just start writing and see what developes...voila this hub. I was quite pleased with the result though. Thanks for reading.
What a beautiful child! Congratulations on your new addition! And good luck with that muse.
I enjoyed this John and you know I think some of my favorite writing is just letting the words flow. Now when it comes to running out of words I have no idea what you are talking about; it honestly never happens to me, but then I have only been writing for about five years now so maybe that is why!
Beautiful grandson, melts our hearts, doesn't it? So precious and may he and grandpa have great health and long life!
I am currently going through an epic case of writer's block. Thanks for sharing this.
Of the cuff spontaneity is sometimes the best thing. You did it!
- Author
Chitrangada, what a lovely comment. Thank you for your support, well wishes and compliments on my hub. I am fortunate to have that view from the window, and Cyrus Jax is just getting cuter.
This was an absolutely beautiful read! First of all let me congratulate you and your family on the arrival of your grandson. He is so cute! Thanks for sharing the happy news.
As usual your hub is a complete package--engrossing writing, lovely pictures, beautiful poem and so on.
I loved your writing space and the view from your window is fascinating.
Thank you!
- Author
Shauna, what a lovely comment. Thank you! I just realise I replied to your comment about the poem on my reply to Nell...ok here it is again;
"I sent the poem to my son on Facebook. They are getting it printed up to put on the boy's bedroom wall and also he and his wife are getting it tattooed on themselves (they love tattoos)..which I think is an honour."
I try to make my writing unpredictable and entertaining. I could never stick to a niche, I would bore myself. If I write anything that seems boring to me..it goes in the bin. If I don't find it interesting, no one else will. Your comment helped confirm I am successful at what I am trying to achieve, so thanks again.
- Author
Good to see you Nell. Glad you had a nice relax while you were reading this. I know I sometimes look at the length of certain hubs and think I just don't have time now, maybe I'l come back later and give it a read. Anyway, yes the kangaroos are great...they seem to be coming closer in every day. They'll be in the house soon :)
I sent the poem to my son on Facebook. They are getting it printed up to put on the boy's bedroom wall and also he and his wife are getting it tattooed on themselves (they love tattoos)..which I think is an honour.
This was a joy to read, John. It's like being inside your head listening to your thoughts. I love the photos, too. And your poem - well, let's just say it's a treasure celebrating the birth of your newest grandson. Be sure to save it for him.
For what it's worth, I always look forward to your posts. I never know quite what to expect and I love that about you. You're a diverse writer who never bores and is never predictable.
I love the way you can see kangaroo's outside your window! how awesome! and congrats on the new baby too! I do write off the cuff so to speak sometimes and yes I totally enjoy it too, and this was great, I put my feet up, got a cuppa and got stuck in, great reading! lol!
- Author
Vglad yo enjoyed the ride Hari. I also agree with your comments that reading other's hubs can in fact be a way of finding your muse and/or inspiration.
This hub was a fun ride. I enjoyed every thing from the suggestions to the photos. It is nice to know the surroundings one lives with.
Sometimes i have felt that reading others hubs help in getting back your muse. I have many a times done that.
- Hari
- Author
Thank you so much Devika. Yes it is a beautiful place, glad you enjoyed this and thanks for tweeting.
Wow! An amazing write up here. I like the photos. A positive mind surely brings you the best out of life. A beautiful place! I Tweeted.
- Author
Great to see you Faith. Yes you may be write if any one thing did inspire this hub it was probably Spring, and then the birth of Cyrus Jax.
I may just write some humorous hubs over this period..time will tell.
So glad you enjoyed the poem and photos here. I also look forward to reading your new hubs when they are finished.
Peace and Blessings back.
Hi John,
I love your freedom writing hub here! It seems you were/are inspired by Spring and all that it entails with the new birth of flowers, plants and the wonderful Australian critters there coming out to enjoy the new foliage, and the blessings of a precious new little life. Your poem is delightful and precious.
Maybe being alone for six weeks, will inspire more hubs of amusement ...i.e., when the wife's away, this is how John plays : ) I'm being silly now.
The view from your front window is lovely and I enjoyed all of your personal photos here too.
I do have many hubs in the works, but just need to finish them up ...I think I think too long and hard on mine, hence losing that wonderful freedom feeling.
Peace and blessings always
- Author
Giday Mate ..Aliswell, Thank you for visiting my hub and the generous comment. I believe in serendipity (love the movie of the same name too starring John Cussack) and there has actually been a lot of talk in my circle of hubbers about being drawn to certain hubs at just the right time recently. Welcome to the club. I do hope this was of some help. You will find billybuc's comments on most of my hubs and vise versa. Any friend of his is a friend of mine. Have a great weekend.
Hi Mate, (Aussie for Hey Dude)...I will retract the feeble attempt at humor in my introduction Jodah, and simply begin by telling you how much I enjoyed your Hub!
I believe in serendipity in life and to find your essay on the, In My Case, very real problem with finding motivation in my writing...it seems to come at a very opportune time.
The other very comforting feeling about finding you, is that another of my All Time Favorite Hubbers in billybuc, and low and behold...I find billy's comments also!!!
Thanks again Jodah, I look forward to drawing lots more inspiration from your Hubs!!
- Author
Hello ps, thank you for reading this hub and agreeing with my thoughts on writing. "stream of consciousness writing" that's a good one. Blessings to you.
- Author
Thank you Diana, congratulations received with appreciation. It is good to read about what life is like in other countries you may never get to visit in person. I'll never get to the USA either. The Spring weather is great so far.
The baby is precious, Grandpa. Congratulations!
I love the hub and the place you live is so interesting to read about. There is no chance I'd ever be able to visit there so I like to imagine what it must be like. I have a Facebook friend from Australia. She does well at keeping me informed about some of the events there.
We are feeling the wrath of cold weather coming here. Enjoy your your spring. Spring is my favorite time of year.
Hi This is so true....enjoyed reading this very much...I call this stream of consciousness writing as I just let the words flow and take me where they will....
Hoping all is good in your little corner of the world today
Angels are headed your way ps
- Author
Thanks for returning Venkatachari, I will have to check your latest hubs.
- Author
Thanks Manatita, yes nature is a big inspiration for me and I seem to turn to it a lot lately when I am struggling for writing ideas..it usually delivers. I always try to spend an hour or two outdoors each day as well. I appreciate the congratulations and glad you liked the poem too.
I published a hub on 1st October or 30th Sept. after a month's gap. I post two small posts at wordpress each week as I participate in weekly blogging events there. And weekly another one or two posts on my own blogs. And reading, commenting all this seems keeping me much busy daily. This is my life besides cooking and watching TV for 1 hour or 90 minutes.
And congrats to you on the arrival of your new grandson. My blessings to him.
Need to get out more when I do not work. Need the 'D.' from the sunlight. Well, you're approaching writing in a nice way by observing nature, one of the sources of inspiration. You're also in a great place for this. I like the poem and you've also covered a lot with your musing. Not bad.
My congratulations for another welcome addition to the family. Much Love.
- Author
Thank you for the generous comment Venkatachari. I too have a Wordpress and a Weebly account but I have written very little there, most of my writing is here at Hub Pages. I am currently finding it hard to keep up with my reading of others hubs but I am doing my best. Good luck with your inspiration, I hope you write a new hub soon.
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Thank you for the generous comment Venkatachari. I too have a Wordpress and a Weebly account but I have written very little there, most of my writing is here at Hub Pages. I am currently finding it hard to keep up with my reading of others hubs but I am doing my best. Good luck with your inspiration, I hope you write a new hub soon.
- Author
Thank you for the generous comment Venkatachari. I too have a Wordpress and a Weebly account but I have written very little there, most of my writing is here at Hub Pages. I am currently finding it hard to keep up with my reading of others hubs but I am doing my best. Good luck with your inspiration, I hope you write a new hub soon.
This turned out to be much more beautiful hub. You are so excellent in putting forth small things on paper and making them wonderful hubs. I lack this muse. I wait for some inspirations and my moods. Actually it takes much time for me. And I write at other places also like blogger (2 blogs regular) and wordpress which also go very slow. I spend more time on reading and commenting.
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Yes Clive, I like it. There are far worse places to live.
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Oh wow Missy, I don't think I've ever quite had a comment like that before. I am touched by your words and honoured that you hold me in such high esteem here at hub pages. I really don't know what to say but thank you, and as I said, you were the one who encouraged me to actually write this hub. I am glad you feel it was actually worthwhile and enjoyed sharing this part of my life. I don't mind your description of little babies at all :) Thank you for the congratulations etc. You are a real sweety.
For anyone who hasn't read your hub about "gun control" I urge them to do so. It is well worth it. Hugs and Blessings.
Australia seems like a nice place
I absolutely love this random hub Jodah, and your poem made me smile so big! I loved it! It was just a darling poem for your new grandson, whom is just deliciously adorable. I hope that doesn't sound weird, but don't you think babies are just so sweet you could eat them up...:) I'm so happy for you and your family. Extend my congratulations to the proud parents!
You make me extremely happy when you talk so lovingly about your wife. You remind me of my parents who feel the same about each other even after so many years. It's just such a beautiful feeling when you see that kind of love expressed.
I loved every bit of this, and I'm sorry I didn't catch it earlier, as you know, I was writing that hub about gun control. And as I'm sure you also know, sometimes when we get started writing we can't seem to let go of the keyboard when the flow starts.
Thank you for mentioning me in such a way as to make me feel important. However you, my friend, are the real writer, the real inspiration to us all here on HP. I know I'm speaking for others, but something tells me they won't mind a bit. :)
Your pictures, your poem, and the absolute way you just spoke to us all with your words, was such a special thing. You made me, and I'm sure others feel a part of your world. To me, it's what writing is all about.
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M dora, thank you so much. I hope you get to see your new granddaughter soon. I haven't seen Cyrus in person either and don't know when I will get the opportunity...maybe Christmas. At least my wife could be there.
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Thanks for reading another of my hubs Carb Diva, and the blessings. Thanks for finding my reference to the polluted air in Beijing funny as well. Cheers.
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Cris, thank you for your kind words and congratulations. Cyrus is oh so cute. I a, glad you can relate to my writing process and it seems we have a lot in common that way. I am glad you found this worth reading as well, I was worried when I started it would appear haphazard and irreverent. Spring here is beautiful, but I also enjoy Autumn..my two favourite seasons. Love to the sky.
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Alan, thanks for taking the time from your hectic schedule to read this hub. I am happy that it ended up making some sense. My God, you will never have to worry about needing a muse will you? I both admire and pity you at the same time for having so much on your plate. Better you than me, I don't think I could handle the pressure. Yes, Darwin is a four hour flight from Brisbane an it makes it even longer because from where I live it is a three hour drive just to get to the nearest airport, so it basically seven hour trip.
- Author
Hi Jennifer thanks for reading and for the great comment (longest so far). Yes, I sometimes find it had to start a hub but,as you see with this one, once I start I am on a downhill run and find it hard to stop writing. Glad you chose to read it despite the length. Thanks for sharing your process for writing a hub as well. I made an error in the second answer in my poll and it frustrates me I can't correct it without losing the results already posted. Maybe editbot may fix it if it gets around to correcting new hubs.
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Phyllis, alway great to see you. One thing I never do is take for granted where I live, it is a piece of paradise and I'm lucky to live here. Haha no I wouldn't be game to call Cyrus a doll baby, his dad, my son Trent is a Muay Thai fighter..haha.
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Thank you for reading RJ. I am glad you enjoyed riding along with my random train of thought.
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Thanks hajra, much appreciated.
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Hi Ruby, it sounds like your muse Lizzy is a little bossy but any story is a good one so as long as she gives you the inspitation I look forward to a sad story soon. The weather is perfect here at the moment.
Congratulations on your new grandson! Love the name. Love your poem. Jealous of your wife; I've a granddaughter that I have not yet seen. Great job without your Muse. Beautifully done.
Blessings to you and the new addition to your family. And congratulations on knocking out another hub when, at first it seemed that there was none to be found. (You made me laugh when you suggested that we take a deep breath--unless, of course, we live in Beijing).
Oh, the new bundle of joy is so adorable. Congratulations!
Thank you for sharing with us all that this hub entails. I feel your sentiments and like you, I agree that writing in itself is a freedom of expression. It is for me at least even though most of my writings don't get published. Some are just meant to be kept in a box and for personal consumptions. However, to write and be able to express yourself is indeed liberating.
And, just like the rest of your hubs, this one is worth reading.
Love from the sky~
P.S. You see, it's autumn here in my part of the world and so it is quite delightful to see the lovely images you have in this hub.
John you took the words... and made sense.
Long way to Darwin from your neck of the woods, isn't it. We don't appreciate it here in Europe. (It's like crossing the continent from Calais to beyond Volgograd. A long journey in this part of the world is John O'Groats to Land's End , less than 500 miles.
Congrats on the new Hansen clan member. Interesting name, where's it stem from?
And finally to the 'muse'. What's that? (Doh!) Seriously, I have a bit of a backlog at the moment, what with finishing book six of the saga, working through the Editbots. I'll get past 300 before the next week is out, then i'm down at Battle Abbey for the BoH ren-enactment weekend (nearest weekend to 14th October, 949 years ago), chat about my books, listen to the other authors chat about theirs, sign books and then there's something new, a televised debate. That should be good. Another new face this year, too.
Now where was I? Muse... ah! Production line, more like.
Ha ha, this has got to be the longest Hub ever that basically just consists of "Look, I'm writing a Hub!" But I read it, because -what can I say? - I'm a writer.
I do agree that a basic discipline of writing is to write even when you don't know exactly what you are going to say. I have heard this called a "discovery draft."
In your case, it doesn't hurt that you have gorgeous pics of your grandsons to post along with it. Those little boys are beautiful.
Meanwhile, you are having Spring, and here in the U.S. we are having our first really grey, windy, cold day, with yellow leaves raining down.
I could not vote in your poll because here's my process. I get an idea for a Hub - either inspiration, or I get a burr under my saddle about something someone else has written. : -) I draft the whole thing in my head, but then I do go back and research it, for enrichment and/or correction. Then write it, incorporating the research. Then the hours online finding pictures, as you say. Grr. Then set it aside for at least a day, return and read it to make sure it still makes sense coming at it fresh. Correct any confusing parts. Post, then in bed that night realize something could have come across as offensive. Fix it the next day.
I love your ramblings and that piece of great advice - skydiving, no, but being out in Nature is perfect when the writing muse has vanished. Your photos always make me wish I could have a nice farm like yours, it is so lovely. The roos and wallabies are fun to see, I did not see a python, though. Jodah and Kathy a big congratulations on the adorable new grandson. What a doll baby (now don't tell him I said that - you know how boys hate being called a doll baby). I enjoyed reading this hub. Thank you.
Brav0 ! I love the entire piece. It's your literal slice of life piece with the whole world being allowed to slip into your subconscious train of thought for a fun and memorable ride.
Thank you for your advice. I hope I can be as good as you..congratulations on your grandson.. :)
I like the thought of ' Off The Cuff ' Writing. I'm sure my muse ' Lizzy ' would be furious. She can get real mean when I don't listen to her. I know you're happy that spring has arrived. It was in the 40s here this morning. Burr. I am not a winter person and my muse likes that, she likes sad stories, so lookout! Your new grandchild is adorable....
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Thanks for reading hajra, and for you in depth comment where you raise some valid points. I agree that writing in your journal at home is different from what you often need to do to be a successful writer, but when I can I prefer to embrace the freedom of writing what makes me feel good.
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Hey drbj, yes well I think I found her. I just had to start writing and she showed her face. Getting started was the problem.
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Hi Dana, yes meditating and nature are good methods of stimulating your muse as are books. Thank for the congrats and glad you liked the poem.
I must say the view from your window is amazing. When you talked about the freedom of writing however I couldn’t help but think that when you write your journal you’re just being yourself and you’re comfortable with it. It’s like when you are at home, you wouldn’t care if your hair looks messy. But you would care very much if you go out for work. Every writer wants to look equally good as you or so many others out there. I would really like it to write exactly the way I feel, but who doesn’t want to be taken seriously?
Based on this sample, Jodah, I would say your muse came through in a big way for you. 'Course those charming roos and wallabies might contribute as well. If one appeared in my neighborhood, there would be an Animal Control person hot on its trail.
When I feel stuck I try meditating or using nature. I also read a variety of books that seem to inspire me. Congratulations on the newest addition to your family. I loved the poem.
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Thanks for the congratulations Mike. They were going to call him Jax, but at the last minute changed the first name to Cyrus. It is strong though. Yeah, even without a muse....once I start writing I get on a roll. it's the starting that sometimes gives me trouble.
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Thank you Brian for the kind and interesting comment. I agree with what you say about loathing the farting about required with photos etc, and thanks for pointing out my "deiberate" spelling mitake in my poll. I'l see if editbot changes it for me.
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Thank you Brian for the kind and interesting comment. I agree with what you say about loathing the farting about required with photos etc, and thanks for pointing out my "deiberate" spelling mitake in my poll. I'l see if editbot changes it for me.
Hello John - Congratulations on the grandson - that is one very strong name. He is going to have to live up to that one for sure. I see you have some control over your muse. Once the words start to arrive you are confident that more will follow. This is an enjoyable read.
Read your very enjoyable Hub while my Muse was on a meal break Jodah. I've been writing about murders now for a week and need to come up for air. Although I love writing and researching Hubs, I loathe the faffing about with the editing and loading images and then forgetting where I've put them. It's easy to lose a couple of hours farting around and achieving diddly squat....or is that just me??
...by the way spotted your deliberate typo in the second poll question..you won't catch us out like that!...have to go Muse is knocking to be let back in.....
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Hi Suraj, thank you for the wonderful comment. Kangaroos can be found in zoos and widlife parks, but there are many more in the wild. In some places they are in almost plague proportions and are actually culled. Yes they can be found in the suburban areas of some towns. I live in the country and they come into our yard every afternoon. Many are killed on the roads as well.
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Thanks Bill, I envy your productivity. I could never manage enough time to have nine articles in the pipeline at one time. You have a great muse. Thanks for the visit.
I always believe there is beauty in randomness. The same can be said for this hub of yours. Its so exciting tgat you see kangaroos rite outside your windows!! Are they common in oz? I tgiught they only kept them in zoos. I didnt know they roam around the neighborhoods like stray cats!! Great hub!!
I'd say you are doing quite well for one who was stumped. :) Great news on that new grandson. My muse is always around....I have nine articles currently waiting for me, pieces I started and then had to leave because of other priorities. The only thing that stutters for me, at times, is a willingness....there are times I'd rather be outside with my critters. :)
Have a great weekend, John!
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Hi Nadine, thanks for reading and also the congratulations. I hope you are enjoying your spring in Cape Town too.
Congratulations for your new grandson, but to be six weeks on your own! That must be hard. I loved reading your hub and the photos of the view of your garden. Yes spring has arrived. Thank goodness.
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No worries Frank, thank you for taking the time and being the first to read this. Your comments are always valuable as well.
god bless the new born.. oh how precious they are.. and the suggestions/advice is indeed sound.. thank you for sharing your thoughts, your photos, the new life and the advice Frank
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