What Have You Rogued for Me Lately?

 

Nothing.

Not a damn thing for Mr. Bloodtrail over the past two weeks.

Not for the Rogues or any of my other writing projects.

In the past I would get discouraged about such a lack of productivity. This would create stress, frustration, and maybe even a mild form of depression. Instead of getting out of my writing funk, I would only elongate it and even create my own little Catch-22. I'm miserable because I can't write and I can't write because I'm miserable.

I think this can be a common dilemma for writers. But how a writer handles the situation can determine how debilitating it will be to his or her muse in the long run.

In recent months I've come to learn and accept that these periods are inevitable—they will happen. It's something that all writers must face. Whether it's due to writer's block or just a lack of time from the heavy demands of life, all writers must wallow through these non-writing phases.

I knew this writing abyss was temporary. Life got in the way and said, "Bloodtrail—your ass is mine for a while! You're not writing a fuckin' thing!" And I didn't.

This time—for once—I embraced it. I didn't get discouraged or stressed or depressed. I kept in my mind that once I navigated through these obstacles, I would resume writing with gusto.

For many writers acceptance alone may be difficult—if not impossible—as a method for breaking down these writing barriers. What I really recommend is to get into a good critique group; a small group of writers with common goals and/or interests. A group like this will become a safe haven for your muse.

At last night's meeting, when I heard all that my Rogues were accomplishing and their enthusiasm towards our future projects and events, how could I not come home feeling energized and ready to bust a cap in my word processor's ass? Besides that, the camaraderie and great laughs let any stress melt away and put me in a great frame of mind. That's really the key to great writing. Having your mind focused, and free and clear of worry—even if only for a short time.

With my obstacles cleared and my mind right again—my hiatus is over!

Mr. Bloodtrail is back and ready to inflict a bloodbath of prose. I'm prepared to go a on a cross-country writing spree.

Look out—you may be my next victim!

BT