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For an apposite view: http://www.stevenpressfield.com/the-war-of-art/

The premise is The muse is at your writing desk. If you want to write a book, show up. Sit down. Write. Ideas will only come if you are working. Any thoughts ideas, rationalisations or fears that keep you from writing are the enemy. He collectively calls them "resistance".

You will inevitably have days and weeks without a useful page. Show up still.

I think following your motivation is great. If you are sitting around waiting for it, you need discipline. This is what this blog is about.



I'd suggest the Unquiet Grave (Cyril Connolly) as an older but richer and more creative examination of the issue.

If I took my lead from Palinurus, I'd remark that 'the war of art' demonstrates the cultural penury of our age.

But then Palinurus took that view of himself too.


Great book! If you like The War of Art, I'd also recommend the follow up book: Do The Work http://www.stevenpressfield.com/do-the-work/




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