The Elusive One Per Cent

 

As Thomas Edison famously almost said, ‘Writing is one per cent inspiration, ninety-nine per cent perspiration.’ If that’s so, then why is it that finding inspiration often feels like the hardest part of any writing project? Who knew a blank page could be so intimidating? And even writing on a given theme still requires the inspiration of a new angle or a hook to draw the reader in.

 

If you’re one of those annoying fortunate people who never struggle with inspiration, please feel free to ignore the rest of this post and return to your current masterpiece (although if you’re willing to spare a couple of minutes to post your tips in the comments, that would be greatly appreciated).

 

For the rest of us mere mortals, here are a few suggestions on finding that elusive inspiration:

 

Read, read and read some more. Immersing yourself in other people’s words can kick-start your own creative juices.

 

Link-up with other writers. Admittedly, this has been harder to manage in Covid times, but that doesn’t mean we shouldn’t try. Join a writing group, attend a writers’ event, engage with social media.

 

‘Interview’ your characters or an imaginary reader. What conflicts are they wrestling with? What are their aspirations? What would your intended audience like to know more about? Top tip: if you’re doing this in a public place, it may be best to keep the conversation in your head…

 

Make use of competition prompts or writing exercises to generate new ideas. Working on a seemingly random idea might lead to something bigger – and even if it doesn’t, it’s a great way to develop your writing skills.

 

Do something different. Yes, really! Go for a run walk, potter in the garden, listen to some music. Sometimes inspiration just needs a bit of time to bubble away in the background. Think of it as a timid hedgehog – it’ll only venture out into the open when it thinks you’re not looking.

 

What about you? Is inspiration something that comes easily – and if not, where do you find it?

Fiona Lloyd is Chair of the Association of Christian Writers and is married with three grown-up children. Her first novel, The Diary of a (trying to be holy) Mum, was published by Instant Apostle in January 2018. Fiona also writes regularly for Together magazine.

Twitter: @FionaJLloyd & @FionaLloyd16