Freewriting Sans Topic
March 28, 2008 · Written by Melissa Donovan
Many months ago I described my experiences with freewriting, explaining how learning this valuable writing method helped me improve my writing and find new ways to access the ideas that lurk in the recesses of my mind. When you practice freewriting, you step out of your own way and let images and symbols stream from your subconscious into your writing. This is a subtle yet powerful way to call on your muse.
For this week’s exercise, try freewriting for yourself. Sit down in a calm and quiet space. Take a few moments to relax and breathe deeply. Then, using pen and paper, fill one page with freewriting. Don’t think about the words you’re putting down. Instead, invite images and scenes and let these find their way to your page. If you’ve never practiced freewriting before, it could be awkward or uncomfortable at first. Sometimes one word will get stuck in your head. Just keep writing that word until something else replaces it. Try tapping your toe if you get stuck because rhythm sometimes helps stimulate freewriting.
If you’re brave, go ahead and post a comment with an excerpt from your freewrite. Good luck and have a great weekend!
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ok, I promise to try it, I don’t promise to share it..
But I’ll let you know how it goes!
Hmm… I haven’t tried this, but it sounds a bit like mind mapping…
I used this technique with my fifth graders several times over this past year…it’s amazing (and sometimes scary) what the ten/eleven year old brain can come up with when given this kind of latitude.
@Wendi, watch out, it’s addictive!
@Laura, it’s not like mind mapping. Instead of drawing all those bubbles, you just let the words flow. It terms of letting ideas flow, I guess it is kind of similar to mind mapping. Hmm.
Maybe I should write a more extensive post about it. Freewriting is something I’m pretty passionate about.
@Eric, Oh, I imagine kids would produce some incredible freewrites. Wish I could read them!
We’ll have to revisit this topic.
I just did it this morning and wow my mind jumps around alot.
@Coby, Jumping around is a good thing in freewriting. Feel free to post an excerpt!
I do this quite a bit. You’re right, it is very addictive!!
Hope your flu is better!
@Amy, Thank you. This is the strangest flu I’ve ever had. Going on ten days now… every couple of days I think I’m getting better but it hits again. Now I’m mostly just exhausted, probably from not eating much, but I think I’m finally on the road to recovery.