Living the Artist's Way

October 30, 2023
In this meditative guide, Cameron (Write for Life) adds the practice of “writing for guidance” to the creative program first outlined in her bestselling The Artist’s Way. By writing out a request for guidance (“What should I write about next?” is a frequent query of Cameron’s, though readers can tackle “any topic”) and answering it on the page, one can tap into a force that’s both deeply personal and greater than themselves, according to the author: “There is something in the act of writing that renders the guidance we receive somehow more ‘real’... our hand is an instrument in the hand of God.” Outlining a six-week lesson plan, Cameron details how writing for guidance can help readers quell anxiety, “slow down” amid life’s stressors, and surrender control. Interspersed throughout are personal anecdotes and conversations with the author’s many friends (almost all of whom write “morning pages,” a practice Cameron delineated in her original program) that illustrate how such guidance can be sought out, received, and used. In one case, asking and answering a series of requests on the page soothed Cameron’s nerves as she waited for feedback from her editor; elsewhere, a friend shares how “writing opens up to hear guidance.” Cameron’s lovely prose is grounded in a keen awareness of her inner and outer worlds, which are described so vividly that the reader comes to feel like one of her many “intimates.” Artists and others looking to tap into their intuition will find plenty of wisdom here.

Starred review from October 15, 2023
Cameron continues her popular Artist's Way series with a six-week program designed to tap into spiritual guidance and spark creativity. Readers who have followed her previous works will probably already be starting their day by writing their three morning pages: a practice that gives floating thoughts a safe landing spot and prepares the writer for her upcoming day. Each week invites another facet, beginning with grounding, strength, and calm, and ending with optimism, stamina, and commitment. The author, who acknowledges that inspiration in her writing and life comes from spiritual connections with friends, nature, and reading, speaks freely of the guidance that appears when she picks up a pen. She calls this "writing for guidance" and identifies it as an essential tool that artists can use to find their creativity. Her descriptions are beautifully written, and while she admits to sometimes questioning the guidance writing offers, Cameron attests to finding fulfillment in following its directions. Each chapter contains well-chosen quotes and writing prompts to spark the guidance process. Whether it's living through an air-conditioning installation, teaching a Zoom class, writing about prayer, or working with her publishers, the author demonstrates the power of seeking and following the spiritual path. Her many fans will be inspired.

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