Undue impulses that influence the mind can often strive to regress the work of a writer in a true innocent expression. The impeding and menacing latitude of this experience may persist for an indefinite time. Such a barrier can temporarily disrupt and stagnate a seasoned writer to crippling frustration. Agonizing in deep rooted boredom dominates the day, while therapeutic sleep may suffice as an analgesic at night. The mind is anesthetized of all creativity and the desire to write has atrophied.

This barrier of detachment can intensify when molded with extenuation of such behavior. The mind is triumphant … it has achieved its tenacity! It has succeeded in creating a tumultuous temperament for the writer! It has won the amplifying realization of its control … a powerful virtuoso to the vulnerable! The barrier is now juxtaposed with infirmity obsessing the mind.

The poet takes on the role of a puppet … at the hands of his/her mind. This was not envisaged – not planned. There is no escape … the barrier has intruded and invaded an artistic, inventive, joy seeking mind when, only yesterday, there was perfect unison, harmony and consummate rapport with creativity and thought. Being exposed to such a barrier, the poet may lament as the mind is stifled and crippled. Nevertheless, it is in one’s best interest to put aside writing, disregard the barrier, and focus on, perhaps, a beautiful sunrise or sunset, as a stimulant to overcome frustration.

Is such a situation justified … absolutely so. We know the power of the mind can influence our mere existence. Barriers to writing is only one miniscule example wherein we are struck with “brain lock”. There are no warning signs for either its starting point or its exit. The poet is battling a dilemma with an opponent not convinced to give up. The brain has a mind of its own and will not succumb or digress with dignity. It has launched a barrier to writing for the poet. Creativity has shut down, while life juggles along as though being towed by a tow truck. The writer has to give in reluctantly and subjugate to time. Meanwhile, writing has twisted to slavery, with no compassion or mercy.

Without a warning, the mind restores to normalcy. Quick to grasp it, the poet dives in and breathes his breath with immense pleasure. The barrier has lifted, temporarily. Now is the moment … the time … to unload the dormant creative passion. Now is the time to reunite yourself with your creativity and get that sparkle in your eyes, to perfect that poem and rekindle your energy to write.

We do not live in a perfect world, neither are we perfect in what we do. There will always prevail times of uncertainty, moments of doubt and barriers to writing. My simple advice is to try not to be perfect and when you succumb to “brain lock”, give it time. You must strive to win – at all times – you have the ability to break these barriers. Tell yourself that you are a winner … in good times and not so good times and you will endeavor to beat the odds, break down the barriers and magnify immense satisfaction in your writing.



© Laura Simoes

July 2008