Minding the Muse: A Handbook for Painters, Composers, Writers, and Other Creators

"Priscilla Long has read wide and deep in the practice of artists of all stripes, and she has meditated to good purpose on what she's found. She is particularly good on the cross-fertilization of artistic methods, with the result that this book is wise, practical and illuminating, a friendly aid to creation." -Janet Burroway, author of Losing Tim, A Story Larger Than My Own, Bridge of Sand, Imaginative Writing, and Writing Fiction "On days when the isolation of working in solitude can feel overwhelming, it helps to have the wise and supportive voice of poet, writer, and master teacher Priscilla Long whispering in your ear that making art is a possibility, and that you, like the many artists quoted in this book, have something worthwhile to say." -Bruce Black, author of Writing Yoga "Like mushrooms, facts must be gathered; like dough; a draft must rest in order to rise. Drawing on vivid anecdotes from a range of artists, this book makes her case that creativity thrives in the balance between spontaneity and discipline. Long's voice is conversational and witty, seasoned by her experience as an accomplished poet and essayist. Minding the Muse is a gift to anyone ready to take their craft more seriously." -Sandra Beasley, author of Don't Kill the Birthday Girl: Tales from an Allergic Life and Count the Waves "With stunning freshness and clearmindedness, Priscilla Long explores how to live a life in consonance with one's creative goals. She offers inspiring advice from many high-achieving creative individuals. Readers are certain to come away with renewed confidence and many practical maneuvers they can't wait to try. On the balance scales, in terms of usefulness and of being a joy to read, this short book outweighs dozens of others on the topic." -Susan K. Perry, PhD, author of the bestselling Writing in Flow, "Creating in Flow" blogger at PsychologyToday.com, and author of the novel, Kylie's Heel "Do you get bogged down in creating the works you imagine? Priscilla Long's handbook pulled me right in, to help me move beyond where I get stuck-making space, dealing with feelings, getting out in the world, and more. This accessible, comprehensive, and, well, creative, book is a gift for anyone who wants a fruitful, creative life." -Sondra Kornblatt, author of Restful Insomnia, and A Better Brain at Any Age "Minding the Muse is an artist's answer to the over-asked questions: 'Do you write with a pen or pencil?' Priscilla Long's new book, rich with real life examples, gives creators in all disciplines concrete ways to shape a personal daily practice that invokes the power of the sleeping muse." -Barbara Earl Thomas, painter