Can We Talk 2

From Where Does Inspiration Come?

         When I'm busy walking around or washing dishes or otherwise occupied, I am full of inspiration. I don't have time to work out the details or to write it down. But when I sit down to write the letters, or email, or articles, nothing comes to mind. "What was I thinking about when I crossed the parking lot?" "What was that great movie idea I had while driving down the Interstate?" It's all gone when I face paper or keyboard.

         Maybe my mind only works on a subconscious level. Or when I pick up paper and pen, I realize my thoughts were too murky or disorganized, and I just don't have the energy to think it through.

         Actually, I feel something like that for some reviews. I read a piece, and I can't relate. I think, "There is no way I can review this." But if I keep looking at it and think like I'm grading a paper, I can eventually come up with something. I look for grammatical and technical errors first. Occasionally, the problem is just the format. It's all just one long paragraph, but as I analyze it, I realize with a little outlining, it can be broken up and not look so formidable. I can usually find positive things to say if I keep looking. The point, after all, is to be encouraging. The writer always has the option to ignore my suggestions or to revise it totally.

         On the other hand, at times, no matter how many times I read it, I just can't give a review. I think it's better not to go through with it. I don't want to discourage anyone or get into a squabble. It's not like being the teacher where you have to read and respond to every paper; you don't have that authority position.

         Forcing myself, when possible to get through a review, helps my own writing, to be aware of what someone else might be looking for.