Maggie Smith on Art and the Gift of Our Attention
“I am so grateful that people make things and then send them out like little messages in a bottle without knowing where they’re going to wash up because sometimes we have no idea that we might be making something that is exactly what someone else needs. Even years from now.” – Maggie Smith
Episode 58
We need art and beauty now more than ever. In this very special episode with acclaimed poet and writer, Maggie Smith, she shares insights with Jen and Amy from her new book ‘Dear Writer: Pep Talks & Practical Advice for the Creative Life‘ and discusses how creativity is a gift that is present in all of us and that every decision we make is a creative act. In fact, Maggie believes that creativity can serve as a form of homecoming, helping individuals to reassemble themselves amidst life’s hardest challenges.
Their conversation also delves into the writing process and reveals the messy and iterative nature of creating art. Maggie talks about the transformative power of writing, the importance of reframing our experiences with new language, and how to maintain a sense of wonder in life, which is essential for personal growth.
Key takeaways include:
- The gift of your attention is a form of love.
- No one else can tell your story; it must be you.
- It’s never too late to start creating. And, the first draft is always a mess; embrace the process.
Resources Mentioned in This Episode:
Dear Writer: Pep Talks & Practical Advice for the Creative Life by Maggie Smith
Good Bones poem by Maggie Smith
Keep Moving: Notes on Loss, Creativity, and Change by Maggie Smith
Moving Forward After Pain Rips Your Script: Maggie Smith
The Friendships That Save Us: Maggie Smith
You Could Make This Place Beautiful: A Memoir by Maggie Smith
Bird by Bird: Some Instructions on Writing and Life by Anne Lamott
My Life by Lynn Hejinian
Take a peek around
If you’re not sure where to begin, I got you, friend. I’m always bringing you something new to enjoy.
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