As we gear up for our upcoming writing workshop here at Brampton Library, we decided to go straight to the source - the facilitator of the workshop, writer and teacher Larry Brown, to share his tips on getting past the blank page. The result? Four key strategies to keep in mind when getting started in your writing journey, the first time, and everytime.

The blank page: how do you get started?

Start somewhere - anywhere.

Writing can start anywhere. It starts with a single sentence that somehow lodges itself in the writer's mind. It could be a song lyric, a line in from a tv show, or something you overhear someone say. Larry urges writers to be in permanent eavesdropping mode, keeping themselves open to words, sounds, and moments. 

Something to explore.

Inspiration does not need to come in written or verbal form, think (or look) outside of the box.  It could be a simple image, for example,  noticing the way the light slants low and early in November - that spurs an idea, a character, or invites the writer to explore a moment or feeling further. Again, being open and receptive to snapshots of life that rouse curiosity, interest, or emotion is the key to sparking inspiration and momentum.

Grab & Go

Once an idea, a sentence, or a scene of inspiration hits, follow it. You might not know where it's going, but the whim to use your imagination and take a look around your story is important. Larry reminds us that in writing, the opportunity to make a left hand turn always comes up - go with it! Do not spend too much time questioning or over analyzing where a story is going. Follow it, see where it leads.

Write (and ride) it out

Get thoughts and ideas out of your head, Larry says. Get them down in writing and start exploring.  What happens when you feel stuck? Ask questions. A lot of writing is answering questions. For example, on a first date, do your characters sit at a table, which table? Why? Answer the questions! Questions give you insight and the opportunity to achieve thoughtful detail descriptions and perpetuate the narrative. 

If you're feeling inspired to write or want the opportunity to learn the ropes from Larry Brown, grab your free workshop ticket for our "Conquer the Blank Page Writing Workshop" here happening on July 28th, 1 - 4pm at Chinguacousy Branch, or call 905-793-4636 to register your spot!