To Write Better, Read Better

The perfect place to read. Shown here after a long day of sunning and reading.

Like other art forms, writing does not start with the piece of paper or white computer screen in front of you. I remember learning about and experiencing the "white canvas" problem while in art school. Sitting in front of a blank canvas is the toughest part of creating. Knowing where and how to start can be a big stumbling block. The solution I was taught at that time was to just make a mark, any mark, on the canvas. Just jump in. That first mark breaks the blockade in your mind.

As I have started to write every day in an effort to get better with words, and to use it as a tool to actually learn. In the past I just sort of skimmed topics. I have discovered another way to think about that white canvas problem when it comes to writing. Writing does not, or should not, begin at the sheet of paper or the blank computer screen. Reading, studying, thinking, learning, asking questions are all part of the writing experience. With other art forms it is also the same. Want to be a better photographer? Spend time in your local art museums studying art in other mediums. Want to be a better musician? Listen to music, listen to things new to you. The more reading I do the better I should be at working with words. At least I hope that is the case. I have a long way to go to even feel a little confident, let alone actually become acceptable at this skill.

Sönke Ahrens, in the book "How to Take Smart Notes" has the reader ask this question before they begin working on paper. "What can we do differently in the weeks, months or even years before we face the blank page that will get us into the best possible position to write a great paper easily?"