I have a disturbing confession to make. It appears that I write better when I am high.
Only kidding. You didn't really think I meant that, did you?
Seriously, I’ve been struggling with a lot of back pain lately, and since I can’t get to the doctor or the chiropractor until our health insurance kicks in, I resorted to taking some of my leftover prescription medicine from the last time my back hurt this much. The combination of a muscle relaxant and a pain-killer leaves me in a fuzzy state of being that can only be described as la-la land.
It was in this state that I decided to write my post from yesterday, exploring the etiquette of blogging. I have had more comments and compliments on that post than on any other post I have ever written.
Of course, the delicious high of feeling like I wrote something worthy led to an immediate case of writer’s block from the complete and utter fear that I would fall flat on my face in my next attempt to write a post.
I avoided writing one all day (well avoided writing on WordPress, I did actually write something for my Hub) spending time answering comments and editing the book I am still hoping to self publish, while ordering things to help me with one job and making a feeble attempt at further job hunting. (Feeble because I am not sure what my next step should be).
Through all of this my back was a dull ache and I avoided medicating, until about an hour ago when a spasm left me toddling for a supportive cane and some of my helpful pills. Now, back in the land of fuzzy brain, I felt inspired to make an attempt at another post.
Knowing of course that what goes up must come down, and that my moment of brilliance has passed.
Oh well, it was nice while it lasted.
Oct 03, 2011 @ 16:50:33
Many, many brilliant writers were notorious alcoholics. Hemingway, Joyce, Kerouac and Wilde openly admitted it and reveled in it. Wonder how many others aren’t as honest as you have been? I’ll join ya. I find a glass of wine most helpful for writer’s block from time to time.
Oct 03, 2011 @ 16:53:48
I’m sure many people resort to that. I don’t usually, but this time it is a little fun.
Thanks for reading. Enjoy your wine.
Oct 03, 2011 @ 16:51:18
Hey that pic looks damn familiar! (http://www.theheadsoffice.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/prone-man.jpg) Haha! Inspiration comes in many ways, and it could simply ne that you are relaxing enough that you are not building your own roadblocks. The trick is to learn how to do that without cool meds!
Oct 03, 2011 @ 17:11:26
I was tempted to borrow that picture, but I thought it would be more successful to create my own. I’m trying to incorporate my own stuff more.
Oct 03, 2011 @ 16:59:13
Wahhhh!!!! LOLOLOL!!! You know I love this post as much as the other one. For the sheer fact that I believe most of us are first,, crazy to write and put ourselves out there and then second, that most of us are also in some sort of altered state when that happens – whether they/we/whoever/the sasquatch admits it….
Oct 03, 2011 @ 17:02:50
I’m glad you liked it.
Oct 03, 2011 @ 17:04:50
Being high from prescription and not-so-prescriptive drugs probably causes our analytical brain (and inner critic) to take a break . . . allowing our creative brain to soar.
Meditation is also good for encouraging our inner critic to take a hike while we explore the realms of creativity.
So Medication or Meditation may be the key you need.
BTW: If you’re looking for something to write about here . . . you ought to share how you managed to paint your daughter’s room with such awesome stripes in such short order after moving in.
Oct 03, 2011 @ 17:10:36
The answer to that is slave labor. I put my brother to work.
I have yet to be successful at meditating. I’m trying, but I just can’t quiet my mind enough yet.
Oct 03, 2011 @ 18:20:14
If this is your “low”, you’re doing just fine! Also? That picture is brilliant (and pretty much how I feel most days)
Oct 03, 2011 @ 18:46:46
I was thinking more of “low” numbers, but I am also a little low on everything today. Compassion, patience, words, energy . . . you name it and I’m low.
Oct 03, 2011 @ 19:28:32
Yeah, I know that feeling of having had a particularly successful post and then being terrified of how to follow it up! (It actually happens to me more often than I’ll usually admit).
I like your writing. I haven’t read very much but shall read more now. I subscribed to your blog a while ago and I’m just about to pop it into my RSS feed as well. Between the two, I should (I hope) remember to read it more often!
Oct 03, 2011 @ 21:10:03
Thank you for coming back. I understand, it is sometimes really hard to keep up.
Oct 03, 2011 @ 19:30:32
PS I hope your back feels better soon. Nothing wrong in taking meds that help you feel better.
Oct 03, 2011 @ 21:49:29
Not to make fun of you pain Lisa…..but some of the “most popular” stuff I have written has been while under the influence of pain killers…… It’s a win win really…. You get some relief from your pain and if so be it, things start to flow onto your blog, then that’s ok too….. Hope you are feeling better soon!
Oct 04, 2011 @ 07:38:40
I knew some of your more insane posts had to be under the influence of something.
Oct 04, 2011 @ 03:19:46
That picture reminds me of the prompt of the iron man on the floor! I’m a back sufferer so I hope you get it sorted soon Lisa!
Oct 04, 2011 @ 07:35:21
I debated whether to link back to that prompt picture or create my own. Maybe I should add in the iron man for contrast.
Oct 04, 2011 @ 09:45:44
I’m of the opinion that your writing is typically brilliant, high or low. The pain pills may just shut down the internal editor.
Oct 04, 2011 @ 10:02:38
Hilary, you are far too kind. We’ll see what happens, as I am about to take more now.
Oct 04, 2011 @ 14:49:23
Tragically funny. I’m now trying to come up with an ailment that will require heavy meds. You are a real inspiration.
Oct 04, 2011 @ 14:52:26
Renee, you could always resort to more traditional methods, like wine or cocktails. Or perhaps even less socially acceptable options (note my first image). That way you can avoid the pain part and just get the fun.
Oct 04, 2011 @ 16:55:58
Chocolate works too! Really enjoyed this and the one about Sarah too!.
Oct 04, 2011 @ 17:00:26
Thanks. I want some yummy chocolate now.
Oct 04, 2011 @ 23:19:18
LOL, I thought this was a brilliant post. I loved the photo. I deal with back pain and neck pain and . . . so I know the feeling. Plus, I also freeze up when I feel I have written a brilliant piece and how do I follow that? I guess we keep showing up and take what we get. Since I have been reading your posts, I have liked them all so keep on writing.
Oct 07, 2011 @ 13:29:23
I hope you feel better soon.
Most of the “greats” were on drugs. Maybe you’re on to something.
Oct 07, 2011 @ 19:30:14
Maybe I am, only time will tell.