Writer's Block? A Comment on the Pressure to Be Productive
Written by Rebecca Rijsdijk.
We recently posted a blog article by Gayatri Medhi on the subject of writer's block. It sparked some discussion in our DM's, leading us to consider writing our own opinion piece on the topic. Our friend and fellow poet Stefanie Briar pointed out that writer's block does not exist, stating that "you either write or you don't." She argued that writer's block is simply a way of making an organic process overly complex. We thought she had a point and decided to add our own two cents to the conversation.
Writer's block, the feeling of being unable to produce new ideas or put words on the page, is a common concern among writers. But is it a real phenomenon, or simply a by-product of our society's tendency to always have to be productive?
First, it's important to consider the definition of writer's block. The term itself suggests that there is some external force preventing the writer from doing their work, as if they are blocked by an invisible wall. But is this really the case?
When we experience difficulty in any task, it is often due to internal factors such as a lack of motivation, confidence, or focus. These challenges can be overcome by setting clear goals, developing a routine, and finding techniques that work for us as individuals. It's also important to remember the value of self care in overcoming these challenges. Taking breaks, engaging in activities that bring us joy, and practicing self compassion can all help us to feel more motivated, confident, and focused. Or, if all else fails, you could simply give society the finger and have a long, good rest.
It's also worth noting that the creative process is rarely a linear one. Ideas may come in fits and starts, and it is normal to have periods of time where we feel less productive. This does not necessarily mean that we are experiencing writer's block, but rather that we are in a natural ebb and flow of the creative process. Nobody can be productive all the time, and trying to be just results in burnout. Understanding that the creative process is often cyclical and that it is normal to have ups and downs can help us to be more accepting of these natural fluctuations and to avoid putting unnecessary pressure on ourselves to be constantly productive.
So if writer's block is not a real phenomenon, why do so many people believe in it? One possible reason for the belief in writer's block is the pressure to be constantly productive in our society. In a capitalist system, productivity is often equated with success and worth. We are told that we must be constantly working, creating, and achieving in order to be successful. This pressure to be constantly productive can create anxiety and self-doubt, leading us to believe that we are experiencing writer's block when we are simply struggling with the normal ups and downs of the creative process. The belief in writer's block may be perpetuated by this constant pressure to be productive, rather than being a real phenomenon in and of itself.
In conclusion, while it is normal to have periods of time where we feel less productive, the concept of writer's block may not be a real phenomenon. Instead, it may be a product of the pressure to constantly be productive in our society. By recognizing and acknowledging the natural ebb and flow of the creative process, we can better support ourselves and our writing.
REBECCA RIJSDIJK is the author of several poetry collections, including Portraits of Girls I Never Met and The Lady from across the Sea. Besides writing poetry, Rebecca works in healthcare and lives in Eindhoven with her partner and a bandit dachshund called Bobbie. She is also the Founder and Editor-in-Chief of Sunday Mornings at the River.