The Power of Losing Control in Writing

Core Concepts

Better writing happens when you lose control.

Abstract

In the article, the author reflects on a moment of surrender during a bath, where they let go of distractions like their phone and even a book. As they immerse themselves in the experience, they draw parallels between the flickering candle flame and their own restless nature. The author describes feeling a sense of enlightenment as they let go of control and embrace their body's pulsation without interruption by thoughts. This state of surrender leads to the realization that better writing occurs when one loses control. They share personal experiences of quitting their job and subsequently producing some of their most successful pieces by surrendering to different topics like tarot cards and documenting sexist advertising. Despite previously focusing on war-related content for two years, these new explorations yielded more success, prompting the author to question why this shift occurred.

Stats

"Two weeks ago, I quit my job."
"In a few days, I wrote two of my most-earning posts."
"I’d been writing about war for two years, yet not a single piece of writing about it earned me as much."

Quotes

"Better writing happens when you lose control."
"Every bit of my body comes together in one human pulsation."

Key Insights Distilled From

I’m Losing Control But My Writing Gets Better

by Anton Kutsel... at medium.com 03-14-2024

https://medium.com/the-narrative-arc/i-lost-control-and-my-writing-got-better-c8b6e70bf15e

Deeper Inquiries

How can writers balance control and surrender in their creative process?

Finding the balance between control and surrender in the creative process is essential for writers to produce impactful work. Control allows for structure, organization, and intentionality in writing, ensuring clarity and coherence. On the other hand, surrender involves letting go of preconceived notions, allowing creativity to flow freely without constraints.
Writers can achieve this balance by setting clear goals and outlines before diving into a piece while also being open to unexpected inspirations that may arise during the writing process. By establishing a framework but remaining flexible within it, writers can maintain control over their narrative while also embracing moments of spontaneity that lead to innovative ideas.

What factors might contribute to the success of writing when losing control?

When writers let go of rigid structures and allow themselves to lose control during the creative process, several factors come into play that contribute to the success of their writing. Firstly, relinquishing control opens up space for authentic emotions and raw experiences to surface in the writing. This vulnerability often resonates with readers on a deeper level, creating a more profound connection.
Additionally, losing control can lead to unconventional storytelling techniques or unique perspectives that set a writer's work apart from others. Embracing uncertainty and unpredictability in writing can spark creativity and originality that captivate audiences.

How does societal influence impact an individual's writing style?

Societal influences play a significant role in shaping an individual's writing style as they are influenced by cultural norms, values, beliefs, and experiences prevalent within their society. Writers often draw inspiration from social issues or historical events that reflect broader societal concerns or trends.
Moreover, societal expectations regarding language use, tone, themes, or genres may influence how individuals craft their narratives. For example: authors living under oppressive regimes might incorporate themes of resistance or political commentary into their works as reflections of societal injustices.
Overall: understanding how societal influences shape one's perspective enables writers to create more nuanced narratives that resonate with diverse audiences while also challenging prevailing norms through thought-provoking content.