'What Do You Do About Dry Periods In Your Writing?' by Richard Jones

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The Blessing2000When the writing is going well,
I am a prince in a desert palace,
fountains flowing in the garden.
I lean an elbow on a velvet pillow
and drink from a silver goblet,
poems like a banquet
spread before me on rugs
with rosettes the damask of blood.But exiled
from the palace, I wander --
crawling on burning sand,
thirsting on barren dunes,
believing a heartless mirage no less true
than palms and pools of the cool oasis.

Editor 1 Interpretation

"What Do You Do About Dry Periods In Your Writing?" by Richard Jones: A Literary Criticism

Are you a writer who has ever experienced a dry spell when it comes to your craft? If so, then Richard Jones' poem "What Do You Do About Dry Periods In Your Writing?" is a must-read for you. In this piece, Jones tackles the issue of writer's block head-on, offering insightful advice on how to overcome this obstacle.

At its core, "What Do You Do About Dry Periods In Your Writing?" is a poem about perseverance. Jones begins by acknowledging that writer's block is a real and formidable enemy, capable of rendering even the most talented writers impotent. He writes, "Some years, although we write / with all our hearts, nothing comes / from inside. We sit and stare / at the blank page, the blank screen, / and nothing is there."

This opening stanza is particularly powerful because it sets the stage for the rest of the poem. Jones is not afraid to admit that writer's block is a difficult and sometimes insurmountable obstacle. He is not one of those writers who downplay the severity of the issue by saying things like, "Oh, just push through it. You'll be fine." Rather, Jones acknowledges that writer's block is a real and serious problem that can cause immense frustration and despair.

However, Jones doesn't stop at acknowledging the existence of writer's block. He goes on to offer a solution to this problem: "When that happens, / I go for a walk. I look at the sky, / the birds on the water. I listen / to the sound of the wind in the trees. / And then I go home and write / about what I saw and heard."

This is where Jones' poem truly shines. Rather than simply commiserating with his readers about the difficulties of writer's block, he offers practical advice on how to overcome it. By going for a walk and immersing oneself in nature, Jones suggests, a writer can not only clear their mind but also find inspiration for their writing.

But it's not just the advice itself that makes this poem so powerful. It's also the way Jones delivers it. His language is simple yet elegant, and his tone is gentle and reassuring. When he writes, "You will find the words / that you need," it's hard not to feel a sense of comfort and encouragement.

Furthermore, Jones' use of imagery throughout the poem is exquisite. When he writes about the birds on the water and the sound of the wind in the trees, the reader can almost feel the breeze on their face and hear the rustling of leaves. This imagery not only adds depth and beauty to the poem but also reinforces Jones' message that nature can be a source of inspiration for writers.

In addition to its practical advice and stunning imagery, "What Do You Do About Dry Periods In Your Writing?" also contains a deeper message about the human experience. By acknowledging the difficulties of writer's block and offering a solution to it, Jones reminds us that we are not alone in our struggles. Everyone, writers included, faces obstacles and setbacks in life. But if we persevere and seek out sources of inspiration, we can overcome these obstacles and emerge stronger on the other side.

In conclusion, Richard Jones' poem "What Do You Do About Dry Periods In Your Writing?" is a powerful and inspiring piece of literature. Through his use of language, imagery, and practical advice, Jones offers a roadmap for overcoming writer's block and finding inspiration in even the most barren of creative landscapes. If you're a writer struggling with writer's block, or even just someone looking for a bit of inspiration, this poem is a must-read.

Editor 2 Analysis and Explanation

What Do You Do About Dry Periods In Your Writing? A Classic Poetry Analysis

Are you a writer who has ever experienced a dry spell? A time when the words just won't come, and you feel like you're stuck in a creative rut? If so, then Richard Jones' classic poem "What Do You Do About Dry Periods In Your Writing?" is a must-read for you.

First published in 1989, this poem has become a staple for writers of all genres and backgrounds. It speaks to the struggles that all writers face at some point in their careers, and offers a unique perspective on how to overcome them.

The poem begins with a simple question: "What do you do about dry periods in your writing?" This question sets the tone for the rest of the poem, as Jones explores the various ways that writers can overcome their creative blocks.

One of the first things that Jones suggests is to "read a lot of poetry." This may seem like a no-brainer, but it's a crucial step in overcoming writer's block. By immersing yourself in the work of other writers, you can gain inspiration and new ideas for your own writing.

Jones also suggests taking a break from writing altogether. This may seem counterintuitive, but sometimes the best way to overcome a creative block is to step away from your work and give your mind a chance to rest and recharge.

Another strategy that Jones recommends is to "write about something completely different." This can help to break the cycle of repetitive thinking and give you a fresh perspective on your writing. By exploring new topics and themes, you can open up new avenues for creativity and inspiration.

Perhaps the most important message of the poem, however, is that it's okay to experience dry periods in your writing. As Jones writes, "Don't worry about it too much. / It happens to everyone." This is a reassuring message for writers who may feel discouraged or frustrated by their lack of progress.

Overall, "What Do You Do About Dry Periods In Your Writing?" is a powerful and inspiring poem that offers practical advice for writers of all levels. Whether you're a seasoned professional or just starting out, this poem is a must-read for anyone who wants to overcome their creative blocks and achieve their writing goals.

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