The Theory of Creativity

Some months back, I found a writing seminar that combined hiking and photography with the writing curriculum. From what I remember, the theory of the class was that people who practiced photography would be better writers because taking photos forced them to look at the world and see it from different perspectives. 

A few of the authors that I follow on Twitter have other creative outlets besides writing, like painting, sketching, playing a musical instrument or growing roses. Although nobody has specifically expressed what role these other interests play in their writing careers, they do seem to be important to the person themselves.

What could something as seemingly unrelated as playing the violin or sketching still lifes have to do with writing? Theories could be made that having other creative passions makes you a more rounded individual and thus more interesting and someone with a more extensive pool of experiences from which to draw inspiration. Others may say that focusing your mind on something other than the story you're trying to tell gives your subconscious a chance to work on your plot or character development and allows you to come back to it refreshed and with a new energy. 

Whether or not there is a benefit to the writing, I don't think anyone could argue the benefit of having things in our lives that fulfill, renew or inspire us. I have never considered myself a particularly creative person. Other than my writing, I haven't explored any other interests in that area. Since finding the writing course I mentioned above, I decided to change that. I bought a DSLR camera and am learning how to use it. self-portrait - July 2010I enrolled in two workshops with two different life coaches to learn how to dream and how to live a courageous life. I went hiking up a mountain. I am considering teaching myself how to knit or crochet again. I want to find a pottery class. I may buy a keyboard so I can start playing the piano again. I want to learn to play the drums or the guitar.

I may not be good at any of these things. I may not enjoy all of them. But I love the idea of trying and seeing how things go. I think it would be fun to create a character in one of my stories who has one of these newfound interests as a passion and see how she explores it. My mind is buzzing with all the possibilities and my heart is finding joy from it. And that? That has to be good for my writing.

Comments

[Sandi]

Yay for trying new things! I hope you have a blast with your new camera. I have a list of new things to try, I just need to find a way to fit them into my life. I think the idea that one of these new skills could be something that one of your characters loves is a fabulous idea!

[Mary]

Okay, Sandi stole my opening line.... Great minds, I guess. But, yes. YAY!! I just recently taught myself to knit. It takes me at least a half hour to do one row (of a scarf) but still. I like it. So good for you for exploring all these new things! Some may turn out to be not much, but the ones you do love? Very exciting!! I can't wait to hear how things go.

[Mo]

I love that photo of you. Beautiful!

I've definitely been trying to reach outside of my zone lately—whether it's photography, running a 5K or so working in my garden. I'm not always successful (this 5k thing is going to be a disaster!), but I think it's important to try new things all the time. It keeps you sharp and it's good for the soul.

[Denise]

I think you're onto something here....exploring new things will help you develop new characters....some of your characters might even surprise you and give you and idea of new things to explore. Either way trying new things is a good thing :) I've always wanted to learn to play the violin...I don't know why but I find instrument so incredibly intriguing. If you need crochet help let me know....I somehow have managed to keep that particular skill going although I'm awful at actually finishing projects. Can't wait to hear more about your fun new adventures.

[Kellee]

I love that photo of you as well.

I do so wish you were nearby. I would love to knit with you. I'm sure you'd love the interesting characters I meet at my various knitting groups. Also? Even though I already know the basics, I'm taking a crochet class this Saturday and the next as well. And there is nothing like sitting with a friend, knitting and drinking and laughing. :)

I wish you were near. We could go on photowalks together. I could teach you about your camera. It would be so much FUN!

There are photography and knitting groups in large supply, and I know you've been trying to be more social. These will definitely help your writing, and I have no doubt that you'll be able to launch some new friendships with these activities as well.

Proud of you, and looking forward to seeing the directions in which you stretch and grow. :) <3