Behind the (Writing) Scenes with…
Susan S. Buzzi, Fort Lauderdale Branch
A Writer’s Process
From The Pen Woman, Summer 2019
Since childhood, my love and passion for literature and language (I have learned to speak several) has accompanied me throughout my life’s journey. The magic of both the spoken and written word, for me, has always been fascinating.
Words can be so very powerful. Sometimes hidden, cherished, painful, and not always shared verbally; they are intrinsic, can bring great joy and hope, take the form of visual affirmations, and be creatively incorporated with the arts.
As an author and educator, writing is perhaps the most important means of communication for me; its logical yet critical companion is reading. The ability to imagine and the willingness to immerse and transport myself into the material does, in fact, require some commitment. And yes, that specifically addresses social media and all related accessories: connect with yourself.
As a coach practitioner and counselor, I use writing as an expressive therapy, which often can help conquer a variety of adversities, grief and loss, addiction, and serious illness. It is cathartic, becoming a metaphor for the unspeakable. I encourage journaling and daily note breaks to pen feelings and thoughts, so that clients can actually see and track their progress and growth. Writing is fast becoming a valuable tool in diagnosis and behavioral evaluation.
I do believe inspiration is everywhere — and if we are open, it will find us. And so, that is my approach, pure and simple.
The process can be collaborative or solitary. I often travel with a notebook for unexpected scripting — I try to be prepared. I’d like to consider myself disciplined, usually holding a sacred space and time for writing — an “appointment” with, and for, myself, if you will. And now, having been a caregiver for my dear mother, I am ever mindful of how very precious each moment can be. Make the time and never compromise.
Whether traditional or unorthodox, and because every writer is different, some can produce on a train or in the middle of the night; others prefer quiet and seclusion.
I am happy to share some basic strategies that are included in my personal ritual:
- To begin, there must be desire and purpose.
- You must also set aside the time it deserves.
- Proper rest and diet can help alleviate the dreaded “writer’s block” if there is a deadline.
- Focus; do what you must: meditate, walk, etc. to clear your mind.
- Write from the heart and be authentic.
And so if I adhere to these practices and avoid disruptions (or excuses), I am usually successful with my projects. I will say, I tend to write what I know. That includes educational programming and research documents; however, I do also enjoy poetry, “Faulkner style” and free flowing.
Whatever your style, subject matter or process might be, just write!