I’m pleased to tell you that I have decided to be part of Camp NaNoWriMo next month. I especially enjoy the summer sessions because of the flexible word count, anywhere from 10,000 to the standard 50,000 words. All forms of writing, such as poetry and short story collections, are accepted along with the typical novel/novella as we are accustomed to writing each November.
This year’s session is especially meaningful for me because I’ve not been writing much since my father unexpected died in March. As you can probably imagine, it threw the entire family into a state of shock and it’s been hard to regain the passion for the usual things. I skipped the April session and wasn’t sure if I wanted to sign up in July. I debated the decision until last week, when I realized that the point of the month would be to unleash my creativity and feel the passion that drives any of us to write. I could release myself from the burden of feeling like I had to start a new project with the goal of eventual publication or finish another such work in progress. No, this time, I simply need to write, put the words down, become at one again with the process. I can rediscover the joy. I can create something frivolous and it will be worthwhile as long as I’ve enjoyed the manner in which it comes together.
I feel that this important purpose is fundamental for all writers, not just someone climbing out of the abyss of family tragedy. Everyone has reasons why we do not free ourselves properly to be as outrageous, silly and unfettered as we must be in order to create what we view as more serious projects. I’m not certain of the origin of this dilemma, whether it’s our inner editor or simply the pressure to have gravitas and feel that whatever we make must be epic and grand. This coming month is the fingerpaint and carnival ride of creativity. So, if you haven’t considered taking the thrill ride that is NaNoWriMo yet, why not join me? We can all make beautiful colors!
Etcetera 