02 May Book Review of Becoming a Writer
Embracing the Writer Within: A Reflection on "Becoming a Writer" by Dorothea Brande
If you’ve ever felt that tingle of uncertainty at the thought of expressing yourself through words, you’re in good company. Dorothea Brande’s classic, Becoming a Writer, has a way of reassuring that anxious artist within us. Personally, I stumbled upon this book at a pivotal time in my creative journey, and it instantly ignited a spark that pushed away my self-doubt and reignited my passion for writing.
Brande’s approach in Becoming a Writer is refreshingly unique. Unlike so many contemporary writing guides that plunge into plot structures and dialogue mechanics, Brande turns her attention inwards. She seeks to connect with the hesitant would-be writers, the ones who secretly crave to unlock their creative potential but feel blocked by insecurities. Her premise is that writing is not merely an act of technique but a deeply personal and spiritual journey.
The central themes revolve around the relationship between the conscious and unconscious mind, the realms where stories reside, waiting to be unearthed. Brande astutely asserts that “stories are formed in the unconscious mind,” which resonates profoundly with anyone who has ever felt stories brewing beneath the surface. She encourages cultivating the artistic temperament that allows spontaneity and fresh perspectives—a lesson that’s surprisingly timeless, even in our digital age.
Her prose feels like old-fashioned wisdom wrapped in a warm hug. Brande has this enchanting way of articulating complex ideas with clarity and sincerity. For instance, her description of the unconscious mind as "shy, elusive, and unwieldy" struck a chord, granting me solace in the echoes of my own elusive creativity. This idea of learning to “tap it at will” is both daunting and exhilarating, capturing the paradox of the writer’s journey.
Amidst her insightful exploration, Brande provides practical exercises designed to coax those buried stories to the surface. I vividly recall attempting her exercises shortly after reading the book in 1981. At the time, the mere thought of writing a novel felt like an unattainable dream, yet Brande’s encouragement made that dream seem possible. Her words instilled a sense of liberation that propelled me into my first novel.
Fast forward to today, as I reflect on my writing career—with three novels published and more in the pipeline—I can’t help but feel gratitude for Brande’s gentle guidance. Her assertion that “the unconscious must flow freely” is not merely a writing mantra but a life lesson that applies far beyond the pages of her book.
In conclusion, Becoming a Writer is not just for those who want to learn the mechanics of storytelling; it’s a sanctuary for anyone yearning to discover their voice. If you find yourself grappling with creative anxiety or feeling that your potential is locked away, this book could very well be the key to your artistic awakening. It’s a gentle nudge towards embracing your own story, making it an invaluable read for writers at any stage of their journey.
Brande’s wisdom remains timeless, reminding us that the magic of writing isn’t found in rules but in the courage to explore our own depths. So, if you’re ready to meet the writer inside you, Becoming a Writer might just light the way.
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