If You Want To Write By Brenda Ueland Chapter Summary

Chapter One In chapter one of If You Want to Write by Brenda Ueland demonstrates how “everyone is talented, original, and has something important to say” (Ueland 3). Firstly, she states that everyone is talented since all humans have something to express. She proves this by saying even religious men who went out into the wilderness for silence still expressed. Even though they were silent, thoughts still originated regardless if silent or loud. She also points out that if you tried to never express anything you would nearly explode. Further, on Ueland explains that if a person speaks from their true self they are ultimately original. Along with originality Ueland also believes everyone is talented. Ueland says “…creative power and imagination

Ueland states that creativity should remain alive in everyone for all their lives. Ueland also refers to William Blake who also valued imagination like her. She uses Blake to “show the blessings of using your creative power” (Ueland 10). Additionally, Ueland states that writing boosts creative power which makes life better. She also stresses the importance of doing things not for ambition but for the sake of enjoyment. Along with using William Blake, Ueland also refers to her friend Francesca who taught her writing should be done affectionately. Ueland points out that all writing should be rewarding because it always teaches something new. To finalize Ueland states that those key ideas are vital, so you don’t give up on

She also restates that “…willing action is sterile” (Ueland 35). Furthermore, Ueland explains how walking has helped her creativity. Although, she used to dislike walking Ueland turned it into an opportunity were she and her imagination could be free. This taught her to live in the present not in the future and has helped her writing. Ueland also states that initial idling can be depressing because of the thoughts of senseless life. However, after that is when the imagination begins to show you how life can be improved. Ueland than states how this leads to ideas for writing and improvements. Next, Ueland sets the difference between working and grinding. Ueland states that grinding is the automatic mechanical repetitive way of learning. Working is slowly trying to learn whatever you can while using imagination. Ueland encourages the reader to work instead of grinding because “…grinding and repetition is all lost time…” and fearfully you’ll forget (Ueland 40). To finalize Ueland tells the reader to avoid pushing away creativity by feeling guilty and in a hurry when instead “…you should be lazy and happy” (Ueland