Well?

[VictoriaTwead]

'There is nothing to writing. All you do is sit down at a typewriter and open a vein.'
Red Smith

Discuss...

[shubh]

It never happened with me. I always have so many ideas to share with others.

[VictoriaTwead]

I'm similar - not short of ideas, but after a few hours of writing I feel like I've been put through a mangle. I love writing but I'm exhausted!

[kennyg]

I think the word "typewriter" should now be replaced with the word "computer"

But seriously, all a person needs is passion to get things going.

[squire848]

That's a very beautiful, yet quite graphic quote. I don't necessarily believe that Smith means it is hard to write - as in by having to open a 'vein' as he puts it, he could also mean he is simply pouring himself onto the page. He may see it as opening up his heart and therefore finds it rather easy.
Though I can easily see how he could have meant it is almost impossible too.

[VictoriaTwead]

Well done, Squire. That's exactly how I read it.

[andr70]

I guess that's the worst thing that can happen to a person.If your head is "empty", you have real problems in life

[The Mythwriter]

Very true, I think many worry too much about techniques and processes and styles and a whole lot of other things instead of just getting out your ideas on paper.