Show notes
We dive into the process of creating a personal essay and how some people prefer to plan it all out first (plotters) and others prefer the word vomit technique (pantsers).
“I don’t worry about what the point is at the beginning.” It’s ok to free-write a “shitty first draft,” Anne Lamott style, and worry about the theme of your essay later.
Don’t let anything obstruct the flow of your creativity. Trust your intuition when an idea lodges itself inside your brain, let the story pour out, and then you can tackle the structure and theme.
Once you have a great idea, you can pass it through the filtration system to see if there is an essay in there: Is there a small moment of change? Can I paint a picture? Is there a clear inner/outer story and theme?
“If you’re waiting for inspiration, you could be waiting forever.” We discuss the value of having constraints to aid in creativity: assignments, parameters, or a writing prompt to guide your writing process. We share some different angles for idea generation.
“You can make many different meanings out of one’s experiences.” Follow the ideas that are calling to you, and then examine different angles that could result in a juicy essay.
Keep showing up: having the ideal writing practice and perfect conditions is not always realistic. Commit to coming back to your writing even when you aren’t able to give yourself a really long or productive writing session.
We leave you with some writing prompts and tip for free writing to get the ideas flowing, and this tip for deciding what story you want to write: Brainstorm different angles and then pick the one that feels juiciest, and find your “heart’s desire” story.
Pam and Steph share their “one piece of advice” for writers who are looking for inspiration to start an essay.
Meet our fabulous sponsor, Jlounge!
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Links
Last week’s episode on what we’re looking for in an LTYM submission
Shari Caudron, Denver based memoir writing coach
Where I’m From - poem by by Ella Lyon
Pam’s award-winning essay- 12 Truths About My Life with Bell’s Palsy (Longreads)
Upcoming Shows
Moms Unhinged Comedy at Louisville Underground 11/10
LISTEN TO YOUR MOTHER Boulder Holiday show at the Dairy Center 11/20
Tickets for Reclamation at The Muse 12/5 at The Muse
How to write a killer Listen to Your Mother essay (or any personal essay) | Word to Your Mother podcast ep. 2