You’ve probably heard about pantsing (having no plan) and plotting (having a detailed plan), but have you heard of intuitive writing?
Like pantsing, intuitive writing has no rules or regulations- it’s just you, a blank page, and your characters. The goal is to let them drive the story and get as much on paper as possible without worrying about accuracy, grammar, or plot order.
Sounds easy, right?
How to Write Intuitively
According to the Writer’s Digest, there are several ways to strengthen your intuitive writing. They are:
- Develop a daily writing habit (practice makes perfect, after all)
- Join a physical writing community (to visit regularly for inspiration and fellowship)
- Be more open to surprises and twists (and strike while they’re hot)
- Claim your workspace (you can clean it, light a candle, open a window, whatever you need to feel comfortable)
- Connect with others (to share ideas and tips with)
- Use prompts to keep you focused (photos, letters, phrases, etc.)
- Set a timer and let your words fly without restriction (10, 20, 30 minutes)
These tips and practices can help you strengthen your intuitive writing, open your mind to ideas, and find help and support when you need it.
Intuitive Writing and Poetry
While most intuitive writing refers to longer works of fiction, you can also use it for poetry.
Poetry is very emotional in its own right, and poets often use intuitive writing to capture the essence of those feelings in their first drafts.
They’re not worried about perfect rhymes, which style to use, or how long it is- they merely want to capture the moment. Then, they can clean it up and share that moment with the world.
Final Thoughts
Intuitive writing is pure freedom. It’s throwing away all outlines and expectations and letting the characters take the story in whatever direction they please.
In poetry, intuitive writing is losing yourself in the moment and letting the emotions drive your words.
However you use it, intuitive writing is one of the best ways to create a first draft because, as I mentioned earlier, it’s nothing more than getting the information on the page.
Then, the real fun (editing) begins!
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