17 Comments
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Ali Isaac's avatar

Hi James, your writing is so beautiful, and speaks to me deeply. I agree that the tuning out is actually tuning in, not waiting for inspiration to strike, but locating it and bringing it to the surface. Inspiration doesn't strike, the poet/ writer works at it and shapes it into being and at first its not clear but then suddenly it is, because it has been chipped away at and polished until it is formed. 'It is solved by walking'... I do that too, I love the solitude too, being in the landscape helps and teaches me so much. Thank you for your beautiful words, and sharing these gorgeous films. 💕

James Roberts's avatar

Thanks Ali. When anyone asks me how long it took to create a new piece of writing or art I always tell them 57 years (my age).

To Hear the Trees Speak's avatar

Beautiful post, thank you. And thanks for the film recommendations, will check out Treelines.

James Roberts's avatar

Thank you, it’s a beautiful film.

Natalie Eslick's avatar

I am so happy to have found you James, your words are the sort of love language to the wild that is in my own heart. I am off to read everything *Into the Deep Woods* now!

James Roberts's avatar

Thank you Natalie. Much appreciated.

Helen DeRamus's avatar

Your essay today gave me a starting point for new work in progress. Thanks.

Kat Brimacombe's avatar

I thoroughly enjoyed reading your essay, as I sip my Sunday morning coffee. And thank you for, “This is not procrastination, it’s process.” I also work creatively in short bursts, and had always thought I was doing it wrong by not slogging, LOL. Again, thank you.

Lynne Wyness's avatar

Thank you for this timely reminder that writing is a process. I’ve been wallowing in a mire of non-writing recently, but something definitely loosens when I walk, read, stare into the distance. Now I just need to pick up that pen and find those first five words. 😊

James Roberts's avatar

Thanks Lynne. Just start with any 5 words! Something will come.

Katea's avatar

This is so beautiful and vulnerable and honest. It makes me feel that maybe, I am ok the way I am(which is a lot like this).🕊️

James Roberts's avatar

Thank you Katea, much appreciated

Dr Sharon Blackie's avatar

Beautiful, as always. My husband also does everything in pulses of inspiration. I'm sure they're getting shorter as he gets older ... I find it incredibly disconcerting, because I need to immerse myself to enjoy anything, or to write anything, and often I have to close the door on his restlessness so I can do that!

James Roberts's avatar

Thanks Sharon. Yes, I think it’s very trying for Julia too!

Sea Library / Anna Iltnere's avatar

Thank you, James, I enjoyed reading this.