Wednesday, August 10, 2011

The Rhythm of Writing

  Growing up, I had many things I loved to do: painting, building castles in my sandbox, running through the sprinklers, or playing with the dog, but what I loved most, was the swing on the apricot tree.

  I loved feeling the whoosh of air across my face, imagining what it would it be like to soar over the fence and into the sky.

 Sometimes, I would twist around in a circle and let go, watching the world rush by in an unrecognizable blur, but the thing that drew me in, and kept me coming back, was the rhythm.

  I loved the unwavering rise and fall of the swing. Something about it was so peaceful, so beautiful, that I would spend hours lost in the world around me.

  To me, writing is like that.  If done well, there is a rhythm to it, a steady back and forth, that draws you into another world. The story, the characters, everything lives and breathes by the rhythm, the rise and fall, that moves them along. The exciting parts where you discover something new, and the slow parts, reassuring you that things will be okay.

     Just like the swing, that is what draws me in, and keeps me coming back for more . . .

14 comments:

  1. *sigh* I love your writing. You are so poetic, and yes, you do seem to have a perfect rhythm that just keeps me reading. Great post.

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  2. I still like swinging on a swing. I start by pushing my kiddos, but I end up on my own, soaring through the sky. And you're right; when writing is going well, it feels just like swinging.

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  3. Abby,
    You are so sweet. You made my day!

    E.R.,
    I'm glad I'm not the only adult still hanging out on the swings.

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  4. Swinging. What a perfect analogy! If I loved swinging as a kid and could never get enough of it, maybe that explains my writing addiction!

    I gave you a shout-out and some awards on my blog today, just so you know. :)

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  5. I feel the same way about swings. No matter where I have lived, I have always made sure there is at least one swing in the yard suitable for adult use.

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  6. Lacie,

    I'm glad you feel the same way. Adults need to have fun too!

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  7. Beautiful analogy Missi! I think we are born with this love of meter. It's why we have baby swings, Dr. Seuss, and play those clapping games.

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  8. Thanks for the shout out David. Maybe there is a connection with swing addicted kids becoming writers. lol!

    Thanks Shelly!
    I think you're right, that's probably why lullabies and rocking chairs work so well with babies.

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  9. Ooh, now I want to go swinging again...Beautiful post. I love the comparison of the rhythm being what keeps you coming back.

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  10. Oh my, what a wonderful writer you are! Reading this was an amazing experience - just like swinging is so marvelously enjoyable. I loved being inspired by the rhythm of your post. Thanks, Missi!

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  11. Love this post, makes me want to go to the park right now! I'm in your WF campaign group and just stopping by to say hello!

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