4. Clarify Continuity
The north star of any project is its purpose. The purpose (aka reason for writing) can be as simple as recording something we experienced. We can write as a way to discover what we have to say. Every reason for writing is valid and deserves our respect. We may need to write and rewrite many times to uncover the true essence of a piece. Discovering what holds the work together is its guidance system. Our intention for the writing is the map to get to the destination, well-written and well-appreciated writing. The essence that runs through it is what gives it power.
For my Book of Cranes, the “continuity” (the continuous thread that ran through the book) was the information that revealed the down-to-earth magnificence of the cranes. I included scientific facts and the spiritual significance they have long held for people worldwide and throughout history.
The guiding principles for my memoir, Incandescence: Rising Above Darkness, were the stories from events that taught me something universal about how to survive, heal, hope, and thrive.
North Port 1999 is my son Bodhi’s sci-fi thriller novel. His book began as one image he shared with me. I asked questions to help him find the story behind the creature. We have reading sessions that we call “lie down and listen” because the listener lays on the massage pad while the reader reads out loud. We offer responses to help improve the writing. Whenever we want feedback, we become a sacred witnesses to help each other get perspective. I was very fortunate to have my artist mother showing me how to always encourage and never interfere. We should be cautious to only offer feedback when the other is ready when they ask for it or at least give permission. It should be beautifully mutually beneficial. Finding another creative to give and get feedback from is important. It is worth the effort to find someone with the intention of helping us improve. Sometimes simply listening is the best help for someone formulating creative ideas. Sometimes questions can assist the writer in getting clearer. We should be encouraging or quiet. Good writing and great art can go through awkward stages. It is gratifying to be an advocate. If we find the courage to create and the bravery to share it, we should be rewarded. On the way to excellence, we all need encouragement. I love being there for my son and others as a creativity coach.
The thread that runs through a writing project is what holds it together. The connecting fiber must be strong to keep all the parts from falling apart. Whether a single writing or a collection, we must be clear about its connecting purpose. Sometimes clarity comes from the themes within the writing. Other times it is the vision for the writing. The intention of the writer can be what holds it together.
As we write, many thoughts will come across our minds. Our job is to sort out what is on the path and remove what is not. Unless we are writing for self-discovery, we should only put whatever comes into our consciousness into the writing, or we may create chaos, not clarity. Staying on the path of the purpose of the writing allows us to cut through the wilderness of words. Putting only the verbal images that align with the vision of the writing makes it read true in the reader’s mind. By diligently staying authentic to the writer’s intention, we show respect for its power and potential.
We can navigate by setting our course focused on what the writing holds the highest. We are the only ones who can keep the writing on its proper path.
As other projects come into mind, we must set them aside for another time and stay focused until we first finish what we have committed to complete.
Next lesson in the course coming soon!
Read my memoir ➡️ https://www.incandescencebook.com/
See my videos ➡️ https://www.youtube.com/@The_Creativity_Show
See my art ➡️ https://clarecooley.com/shop/
This 10-week course is FREE.
Clare Cooley is a fiscal year 2022 recipient of a Creative Support for Individuals grant from the Minnesota State Arts Board. This activity is made possible by the voters of Minnesota through a grant
from the Minnesota State Arts Board, thanks to a legislative appropriation from the arts and cultural heritage fund.
Praise for Clare Cooley’s Memoir
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Art Featured In The Book
Clare’s Memoir features 68 images of her art and 40 photos of her making art.