Monica Valentinelli: Author, Game Designer and Consultant

Posted on June 16, 2007 - by Monica Valentinelli

Freelance Writing Tip #23: Find a Muse

Throughout history writers have searched high and low for sources of inspiration. Some authors have used their past experiences to fuel their writing, others a love interest, and still others their religious beliefs.

Having a muse can fuel your creativity. For example, say you really like Merlin and you decide to let your imagination run wild. You dream that Merlin stands over your shoulder, inspiring you to write. Maybe you chose him because he’s a popular iconic wizard, or maybe because you’re working on a story set in the world of King Arthur. Simply, Merlin becomes a source of inspiration to help you continue writing.

Non-writers may think that muses are quirky, and I’m sure there are quite a few writers who also think that as well. The point here, is that having a muse is not a declaration of your insanity. It’s simply a way to help motivate you to enjoy your work, to keep at it, and to add a natural touch of creativity so the words flow on the page rather than sounding clunky, over-edited, and unnatural.

Muses can take on many forms; some writers have a lucky pen or a hat that inspires them, others have a routine for writing. Just like any other profession that you might fall in love with (sports for example), even though having a muse may sound silly, if a burst of imagination helps you from turning off your computer or putting down your pen—then the muse did its job.

Related posts:

1. Don’t Rely on History : Freelance Writing Tip #34
2. Freelance Writing Tip #17: Don’t Get Too Personal
3. Freelance Writing Tip #15: Play
4. Freelance Writing Tip #28: Change Your Setting
5. Freelance Writing Tip #8: Think You’re a Writer? Write!