Bird by Bird is the support every writer needs to begin writing. Let’s explore.
Small Assignments
A key piece of advice from Lamott is to make a start with ‘small assignments’. Hone in on a particular piece of writing or a specific scene or key moment. Not only will this make the task feel more achievable but it will almost certainly lead to writing that is sharper and more evocative.
Shitty First Drafts
The first draft is simply about letting it all ‘pour out’. Ideas about perfection or even the need to edit and shape the writing as it comes will only stifle the writer’s creative flow. The writer needs to become comfortable with this, understanding the only requirement for the first draft is to ‘let it all out’.
‘…writing a novel is like driving a car at night. You can see only as far as your headlights but you can make the whole trip that way.’ (Track 3, 58:23)
One-Inch Picture Frame
Lamott suggests writing a scene or key moment through the lens of a one-inch picture frame, giving the writer focus and the ability to capture a level of depth that might otherwise not be possible.
Of course, this level of description need not be consistent throughout, but such a focus will almost certainly lead to writing that is atmospheric and full of life.
Polaroid
Like a polaroid, the writer does not know how the work will turn out; they are not supposed to. That is part of the magic. Instead, the writer must come along for the ride and let the characters show them the way.
Get Quiet
For the writing to flow, without the intrusion of thought, the writer needs to ‘get quiet,’ quietening the mind too as a means of entering the writing ritual.
‘You have to get things quiet in your head, so you can hear your characters and let them guide your story.’ (Track 18, 3:22:39)
Feedback
Lamott emphasises the importance of feedback, because so often the writer is wandering alone in a state of confusion. Writers can drive themselves mad waiting for, and receiving, feedback, yet it is nonetheless important in the editing process and we should lean into this support.
‘…small miracle that you have someone in your life whose taste you admire… who will tell you the truth…’ (Track 23, 4:32:43)
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Reference: Lamott, A. (2020). Bird by Bird. Canongate Paperback. (timestamps: Bolinda audiobook read by Susan Bennett, 2021)