The Mystique of the Lone Writer

Even as an introvert, community has always been important to me. From church and school to workplace and cohousing, I do better when I'm surrounded by a tribe that provides camaraderie and support, and that challenges me to grow.

Looking back now, I see the ways that I have brought community to my writing life as well. I wanted to do an MA in creative writing so that I could work with a thesis advisor and participate in a workshop class. I found other writers when I moved to a new city so that I could continue to do joint critiques and commiserate about the joys and pains of this life. I love going to conferences and reading biographies, so I can hear other writers' stories. I started blogging, and then recently created Wrestling the Angel so I could share my own story with the world.

I am beginning to appreciate my own need for writing community. I have been haunted by the mystique of the lonely writer in his garrett, suffering alone with his art until he finally emerges, fully formed and triumphant. He did not require help from anyone. He was a self-made genius. His writing was purer and more virtuous.

But I want to refute this myth for myself, and not label myself as weak or dependent just because I get energy and inspiration from talking to other writers. For my next step in that direction, I'm investigating the realm of writing coaches. Hey, if athletes can have them, why not artists?

It is possible to overdose on community, doing more socializing than writing. It can be another method of resisting the difficulty of the work. I believe it's a matter of finding a balance so that you feel surrounded but still reserve space and energy for yourself and your work.

Of course, there are genuine lone writers for whom isolation is essential to their craft. Alice Munro and many Canadian writers of her generation never did an MFA program, didn't have writing groups, and had to figure out the ropes of writing and publishing on their own. But if companionship on the path is something you need, go ahead and grab it.

[P.S. Here's a McSweeney's list about why writing groups just don't work for some people ...]