Big Magic
Author: Elizabeth Gilbert
Genre: Self-Help/Creative
Grade: B
I actually read other things this month besides scary books!
I’m a big fan of self-help books (though I’m not sure I could be any shining example of how they help). This one is from the author of Eat, Pray, Love and it’s all about the creative process and in a lot of ways about the ultimate acceptance that needs to come with that process.
Gilbert also has some Ted Talks on youtube (this one being the one I really enjoyed.) The book stresses some good points. Basically if you want to be creative you have to own it. If you are a writer but you don’t publish well, maybe publishing is not what matters. Maybe it’s accepting that you are a writer anyway. That you derive enjoyment out of it. That you need to do it.
Also that being creative doesn’t mean suffering so don’t make yourself do so needlessly. The book is a fast and easy read and I liked her messages. I thought some of the writing was a little too flighty (?). I don’t know if that’s the right word for it but personally I rolled my eyes in a couple of places. Yet I’m probably a much more naturally cynical person than Miss Gilbert.
The most interesting part and the stuff I hadn’t heard before was based on her writing processes. I think if you are interested or a fan you should check out the Ted Talks and get an idea of where she’s going with her thought process here. It would also make a nice gift for a struggling creative type in your life.
Recommend: Yes- I think it will definitely appeal to some people more than others so check out the talks and check out some other reviews to see if it’s your cup of tea.