Quotes From Bird By Bird
If you're an aspiring writer, you've probably heard of the book "Bird by Bird" by Anne Lamott. This classic guide to writing has inspired countless writers over the years, and for good reason. In this post, we'll explore some of the best quotes from "Bird by Bird" and discuss why they matter for writers of all levels.
The Struggle is Real
We all know that writing can be difficult, even for the most experienced writers. From writer's block to imposter syndrome, there are plenty of struggles that can make it hard to put pen to paper. But in "Bird by Bird," Anne Lamott reminds us that all writers go through these struggles:
"For some of us, books are as important as almost anything else on earth. What a miracle it is that out of these small, flat, rigid squares of paper unfolds world after world after world, worlds that sing to you, comfort and quiet or excite you. Books help us understand who we are and how we are to behave. They show us what community and friendship mean; they show us how to live and die."
For struggling writers, this quote can be a comforting reminder that the struggle is real and that there's no shame in finding it hard to write sometimes. It can also be a reminder of the power of books to inspire and comfort us, even when we're struggling in our own writing.
The Importance of Taking it One Step at a Time
Another key message in "Bird by Bird" is the importance of taking the writing process one step at a time. This can be especially important if you're feeling overwhelmed by your writing goals or by the task of putting your ideas down on paper. Here's what Anne Lamott has to say about it:
"Thirty years ago my older brother…was trying to get a report on birds written that he'd had three months to write, which was due the next day. We were out at our family cabin in Bolinas, and he was at the kitchen table close to tears, surrounded by binder paper and pencils and unopened books about birds, immobilized by the hugeness of the task ahead. Then my father sat down beside him, put his arm around my brother's shoulder, and said, 'Bird by bird, buddy. Just take it bird by bird.'"
This quote can be a helpful reminder to writers of all levels that writing is a process, and that it's important to break it down into manageable steps. Whether you're working on a report about birds or a novel, taking it "bird by bird" can help you make progress and stay motivated.
The Power of Community
One of the key themes in "Bird by Bird" is the importance of community for writers. Anne Lamott reminds us that writing can be a lonely and isolating process, but that having a community of other writers to share our struggles and triumphs with can be incredibly powerful:
"Writing can be a pretty desperate endeavor, because it is about some of our deepest needs: our need to be visible, to be heard, our need to make sense of our lives, to wake up and grow and belong. It is no wonder if we sometimes tend to take ourselves perhaps a bit too seriously."
Whether you're part of a formal writing group or just have a few friends who also love to write, having a community to turn to when you need support or encouragement can make all the difference.
Embrace Imperfection
Finally, one of the most important lessons from "Bird by Bird" is the importance of embracing imperfection. No one's writing is perfect, and trying to make it perfect can be a surefire way to stifle your creativity and motivation. Instead, Anne Lamott reminds us that it's okay to make mistakes:
"Perfectionism is the voice of the oppressor, the enemy of the people. It will keep you cramped and insane your whole life, and it is the main obstacle between you and a shitty first draft."
If you're struggling to get started on a piece of writing, this quote can be a helpful reminder that it's okay to make mistakes and that it's better to get something down on paper than to wait for inspiration to strike.
Question and Answer
Q: What is the main message of "Bird by Bird"?
A: The main message of "Bird by Bird" is that writing can be difficult, but that by taking it one step at a time and embracing imperfection, anyone can become a successful writer.
Q: What is the importance of community in writing?
A: Community can be incredibly helpful for writers, as it provides support, motivation, and a sounding board for ideas and struggles.
Q: Is it okay to make mistakes in writing?
A: Absolutely! Embracing imperfection is one of the key messages in "Bird by Bird," and it's important to remember that no one's writing is perfect.
Q: Who is "Bird by Bird" by?
A: "Bird by Bird" is a classic guide to writing by Anne Lamott.
Conclusion
Overall, the quotes from "Bird by Bird" that we've discussed in this post serve as powerful reminders of the struggles that all writers face, as well as the importance of taking it one step at a time and embracing imperfection. By keeping these messages in mind, writers of all levels can find the motivation and inspiration they need to succeed.
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