We are a creative class. We want to express ourselves, whether it’s drawing, speaking, writing, or painting or photography. For those of us who enjoy writing, finding inspiration and motivation isn’t always easy.

For that reason, I chose If you Want to Write: A Book about Art, Independence, and Spirit by Brenda Ueland to review. I’m not sure what to expect, but I know it will be less technical than the last one and focus more on what’s inside of us, the writers.

I knew I was in trouble when I read that Ueland believes such things as rules, teachers, and grammar are discouraging to the imagination. And maybe that’s true, but this may be the most challenging book I will read. I am a sucker for the rules, and I find comfort in the years of classes and proofreading that taught me those rules.

In order to get started, there are a few things we must keep in mind from the first chapter.

1. Ueland believes that anyone can write.

2. We are all original, and science proves that no two people are the same, so we are automatically original and unique.

3. We must be honest and write from our hearts and intelligence.

4. Also, try to surround yourself with people who support and encourage you. Spend time with those who want to hear your stories and push you to tell more.

5. Practice. Practice makes anyone better at anything, so let’s practice writing together. This book seems to focus on creative writing, which I have not done in years, and I am excited to open my mind to it again.

It may be difficult to shut off my rule-driven brain, but I look forward to writing again, and I hope you all will join me on the journey. Three cheers for the creative spirit and independent mind and bringing them back!