Originally Posted by
Secret III
You know, being an ameteur at this (see, I don't even know how to spell!) it's nice to see this thread. A lot of artists didn't go to art school or didn't go to art class and whatnot and so they don't relate to being social with other artists, like many of the professionals do. I firmly believe your daily habits will affect the quality and depth of your output. Just like anything else in life. Plenty of sleep and eating a balanced meal will set you up for a good session of art-making or in this case, writing. Most of us need a clear mind and a lot of privacy and comfort to get into prime creative mode.
Personally I make my best stuff late at night when everyone is asleep. And usually theres a "sweet spot" of creativity and I can actually feel all cylinders firing at full speed. Some people like to be intoxicated or whatnot and many times that was my path but getting screwed up isn't necessary. Inspiring unconventionally new pespectives, but not necessary.
Another very important piece of advice for those artists stuck in a social trap. You may find that certain people around you will try influencing your creations in a plethora of ways. They might try being subtle, they might stage elaborate setups with a cast of twenty incognito actors. They might do anything they can to put their thumbprint on your stuff. If so, then your best course of action is not to encourage them by letting them try and indirectly give you "ideas". The second you let that happen they'll take it as far as they can. So, don't use your life or what happens in your life as the basis of your stories. I don't. You shouldn't either.