Writing without Forethought

Long ago, perhaps many years in my early youth, I heard the idea that a good writer will just sit, pick up a pen/pencil, and begin to write.  When we attempt to put a thought into meaning on paper, and start to scrutinize what we are thinking we almost get nowhere.  Because, each time a word enters the thinking process questions will arise as to the value of or rhyme within (in the case of poetry) and we find more scratches on paper rather than a flow of thoughts or rhythms of talent.

Perhaps some who write do not allow the words to flow from thought to ink.  Maybe, as in the aforementioned statement, too much time is spent trying to digest one inspired idea and frustration enters. Soon we may cancel the attempt to give to the world something only that writer can give. 

Allowing the Holy Spirit to inspire the artist in their accomplishment of creativity is the wisest manner of using our God-given gifts.  This becomes an opportunity to open to all a path of joy, excitement, and wonderment that can only come through those He has chosen.  

A musical composer will sit and begin hitting the keys to sounds already emanating from within as he/she begins to pen the notes.  In time a masterpiece is played to thousands the world over.  Watch the landscape artist begin with brush in hand and see a picture that puts viewers in an ecstatic frame of mind, seeing themselves relaxing on the seashore, a mountain of serene beauty, or in the forest with untold ecstasy.  An author takes a moment and begins to put on paper the thoughts that come into his mind as the words appear saying a lot.

How much forethought emanated from any of theses artists as each one began using the giftedness from within and creating music, drawings, and words that may one day allow people to relax as they listen to melodies of peacefulness, dream while viewing a canvas, or reading the thoughts of one person’s intellect.  Not too many of these artists sat and thought for hours as what to portray with their abilities.  Each one sat and began to create. 

This is talent given through the Holy Spirit and we can not sit idly by dreaming of a day when our belief says it is time to give it away.  That day may come too late and the artist will have passed on a gift God meant for all to enjoy. 

If one or more scrutinizes your art, music, or words to be read, so be it.  Many famous musicians never knew how great their work would become.  This is also the result of artists and writers.  If you have the inspiration to use these talents, use it to share with the world.  It may very well become somebody’s treasure and the world will never be the same.

Ralph B. Hathaway, January 2020