Big Magic

Jack Gilbert told a shy young woman who hesitantly admitted that perhaps she wanted to be a writer. He asked, “Do you have the courage to bring forth this work? The treasures that are hidden inside you are hoping you will say yes.” This is the central question upon which all creative living hinges: Do you have the courage to bring forth the treasures that are hidden within you? This is one of the oldest and most generous tricks the universe plays on us human beings. It buries strange jewels deep within us all, and then stands back to see if we can find them.

Dearest Fear: Creativity and I are about to go on a road trip together. I understand you will be joining us, because you always do. You believe you have an important job—to induce complete panic whenever I’m about to do anything interesting—and, may I say, you are superb at your job. But I will also be doing my job on this road trip, which is to work hard and stay focused. And Creativity will be doing its job, which is to remain stimulating and inspiring. There’s plenty of room in this vehicle for all of us, so make yourself at home, and understand this: Creativity and I are the only ones who will be making any decisions along the way. You are allowed to have a seat, and you’re allowed to have a voice, but you are not allowed to have a vote or touch the road maps, or drive.