Writer's Fallout Shelter

Fear not, kiddo. I think nearly every writer that has ever lived endured the same malaise of literary cynicism and despair. You can always copy technique....you can always copy style...but when you can't find your "voice," it's "woe unto me."
(I bet some of you bet I'd forgotten about the "Style vs. Voice" issue, uh? I promise, we're coming back to that one.)

I suppose there's several reasons that stop us cold at the keyboard. My worst enemy is that darned internal editor who whispers, "You've already shot your best shot. Anything you write from this point forward will be pure, world-class crap. So, don't even bother."

Three or four years ago, I was pretty sure the internal editor was dead on the money. Today, I know better. I may still write the occasional crap, but I've got some decent stuff in there, somewhere, too. It's my job (calling, mission, etc...whatever you want to call it) to stay at it until the good stuff rises to the surface.

If you're still stifled after reading this, do me a favor. Reverse roles for a few minutes, and write to me, telling me ways I can overcome block\feelings of inadequacy.

Be serious, or come at me from left field. Tell me that sitting at the computer while wearing a pink tutu and singing Barry Manilow songs is a surefire method of beating block. Tell me something...anything. Just write. Aim for five good paragraphs.

One thing about beating the "wall..." Nothing, and I mean [i]nothing[/i] says you must always write in your chosen genre. Break from the mold once in a while. The results may surprise you.

Have you ever been caught hiding bodies in your closet? No? Good place, uh?