.co.uk

The term "writer's block" is familiar with most writers new and old. Some may find they are stuck for ideas quite frequently, and feel they cannot continue writing as they normally would; others may find that they have a lot of inspiration/creativity, but are struggling to say what they really want to on paper. Underwhelmed or overwhelmed, writer’s block denotes a hindrance in creative expression.

Blame The "Superego"

So how does one get writer’s block, and where does it come from? A reading of Freud’s "Psychoanalytic" theory proposes that each person has an inner critic, which attempts to dispute each attempt at writing. The human psyche is divided up into three parts that influence this:

  1. The id
  2. The ego
  3. The superego

The id, according to Freud, operates on the "Pleasure Principle" as it demands instant gratification; the superego contains strict ideas of propriety, duty, conscience and obligations; while the ego operates on the "Reality Principle", attempting to maintain a realistic balance between the two conflicting pressures.

In other words, it is the superego that is the strict, critical parent to the writer when he sits down and attempts to write. The superego is the one responsible for the writer’s anxiety and depression; it announces such things as “You are not a writer,” and “People are never going to take your ideas seriously, so quit now!” to permit the flow of ideas.

Strict Discipline Develops With Age

When a person is born, the superego hasn't developed yet. As a result, there is no concern about what other people think, and whether or not one's desires are realistically possible to achieve. Purely as a result of the "id", there is just a want to satisfy demands by whatever means possible.

As personality develops with age, a sense of morality is gained, with the belief that the imperious demands of the childhood were not always possible to achieve (the "ego"). Then later, through attachment, an overall sense of authority from the society is gained; a conscience develops, and one's aspirations start to be questioned (the "superego").

Tips For Overcoming Writer’s Block

Remember that the ego is practical. If you allow the superego to take control, then cynicism will dominant your abilities.

  * It doesn't matter if you are lacking inspiration, or your ideas don’t come out as creatively as you would liked. Just note down something from your mind -- anything. Remember, this exercise is primarily for yourself, so there is no need to worry about someone else reading your work. If your are struggling, focus on something around you -- an object, person, landscape -- and just note down what you see. Don't worry about elaborate metaphors or style -- just write!
  * Particularly if you are lacking ideas, a great way to achieve some inspiration would be to read. Sticking to a subject that you have a brief knowledge of already, or starting from scratch with something completely new and making notes, is good practice. If you are the type that is overwhelmed with ideas, then read primarily for pleasure. Pick up an old favourite, or find a new story, and find a quiet spot to enjoy your book, without being disturbed.
  * If you are really struggling, then take a break from writing altogether. Try focusing your energy upon a physical activity, like going for a long walk, or participating in a sport. Keeping the body active will allow your mind to settle.
  * Social gatherings should also be considered an important hobby, seen as though the writing lifestyle places strong demands upon privacy. Interacting with others will allow you time to express, verbally, your anxieties; or simply allow you to partake in everyday conversations to distract you temporarily from work.
  * Simple things, like lighting candles and incense, also help to create a relaxing atmosphere within a room, which will allow you to concentrate.

All this, of course, all sounds a lot easier than it actually is. All writing is difficult, regardless of how long a person has been doing it. It is just a case of being persistant; everyone has good days and bad days, regardless of their profession.

(C) Andy Carrington, 2009.