Well, I knew it was going to happen eventually.
It seems I have nothing at all to say, today.
Notice, I did not say “nothing of substance.” That is often the case. I find I can go on for quite some time about a bit of trivial nonsense. Today, we’ll see how I do with absolutely nothing.
After a string of gray days, I do not have a good photo as accompaniment. Sometimes a good picture will inspire a bit of writing. Not today. This shadow self-portrait seems appropriate for this bit of empty rambling.
Likewise, a nice title can lead the way. I have a collection of titles, gleaned from poetry and other writings, for artwork that I have not created yet. On days when I’m fumbling in the studio for a place to start, or a direction to take with a work in progress, I go through my list of titles. Sometimes I find just exactly the stimulus or clarification I need. It works with writing, too. In November I made a quick list (Potatoes; Swim; Bicycle; Apples…) and chose from that list a title. Then – like an assignment – I used it as the jumping-off point for my writing that day. I have one item left on the list: Ice Cream. It’s freezing outside; I am in no mood to write about ice cream today!
It’s the year’s end; that’s part of it, I’m sure. There’s a self-sabotage instinct that kicks in when success is near. I’m not sure if it’s a fear of completion or an aversion to success, but it has haunted me throughout my life. In view of the finish line, I tend to freeze. And that finish line is in sight. Five days until the end of this year; five more days until I can say I have successfully posted a blog every single day of the year. So, that’s where I run out of steam.
Fortunately, I’m also stubborn. I am not going to give up now. I will get something out each day, through December 31st. It may not be important, poignant, or even interesting, but I am too close, now, to give up.
Even when you think your articles have no title or substance, you writing inspires! I loved this year, and I look forward to yet another if you will allow us all to continue to enjoy your creativity!
Thanks, Joe!
Gosh what an achievement. I can’t imagine being able to post every day. I love your photo of nothing – it says a great deal.
Thank you! It has been quite a struggle off and on, but I’m pretty proud of myself for taking it on and sticking with it.
I love the photo! It’s a blog post in itself, and very telling of your life. Keep up the good work, even if you don’t post every single day!
Thanks, Sara! Yes, I’ll finish out this year, of course, but won’t be trying for every day in 2017.