Sometimes the message of books and blogs (including this one) about writing can make it seem like writing is nothing but a big chore full of nasty obstacles to overcome.
Sometimes writing does seem that way, and hopefully blogs like this can occasionally suggest strategies and approaches that work and can help.
But how’s this for a Dirty Little Secret? Writing Is Fun!
Yes, it’s often a challenge. But, to me anyway, it’s usually an exciting one. I enjoy the problem-solving that goes into writing a song… or writing anything that interests me.
I’m not saying I don’t encounter resistance at different times and in various ways. Of course I do (see the scores of other posts on this site!). But at heart I write because it’s an enjoyable experience to create something combining music and words where before there was nothing. To turn the germ of an idea into a finished work is a great experience. It’s fun, particularly as compared to most of the other activities of life.
I’m not capable of making many things, but I can make a song.
Unlike some people I don’t just like having written something. For some, the writing process is a necessary misery to be endured to get to the end product. And that’s fine. But I usually enjoy the time spent searching, puzzling, trying, considering, discarding… I wish I could spend more time writing.
Even when it’s a job, songwriting isn’t really a job. It’s good to remember how much I like doing it, that I’m grateful for the ability to do it… and that ultimately I write because I like to – I find it a rewarding and often exciting way to spend my time.
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Yes, writing is almost always very enjoyable and we should remember this and celebrate it. Thank you Tony for reminding me.
My pleasure, Ray!
Tony
The only reason I wrote was the fun and satisfaction I got from fitting words and music together. I always said that when it stopped being fun I would stop writing. And guess what? Writer’s block is my only friend, it’s become a frustrating pain in the butt, the novelty has worn off and it’s not fun any more. So I am now an ex-songwriter.
Thanks, Pete.
I guess it could go back the other way too! I’ll be looking and listening…
Best wishes,
Tony
I agree! I feel so alive when I’m writing.
Thanks, Robert!
TC
So true! I love writing. It is a feeling you just can’t replace ? Even though recording a song I have written is exciting, nothing compares to the high I get while creating that song. I’m so thankful!
Me too!
Thanks, Julie,
Tony
Writing was fun and pure joy for me before the outside pressure of “Nashville rules” entered the equation and I started rewriting endlessly to please someone else, who never could be pleased. I want to recapture the magic of initial inspiration.
Mary Ann,
I’m sure it’s still there…
Thanks for writing.
Best wishes,
Tony
Nothing in this whole world is as much fun as working on a song. And working with your friends makes it even more so. I’m the luckiest duck I know.
You would know!
Thanks, David.
Tony
Yes, I too love the puzzle solving aspect of weaving chords, notes, lyrics & rhythm into a creative audio tapestry called a song. Tony, thanks for sharing your “Dirty Little Secret”. Songwriting IS fun!
Andy,
I’m glad we’ve shared some fun together in the workshops!
TC