Natalie Goldberg

Writing Down the Bones

1. IDEA 1

   Writing is a practice

   Goldberg, drawing on her Zen Buddhist training, treats writing as a practice like meditation. She argues that regular, honest writing helps people discover what they think and feel. She sees the page as a place to listen to oneself.

2. IDEA 2

   Write without stopping

   Goldberg recommends timed writing sessions where you keep your hand moving and do not cross out or edit. This bypasses the inner critic. In her view, the point is to let thoughts flow instead of judging them as they appear.

3. IDEA 3

   Trust first thoughts

   Goldberg argues that first thoughts often have energy and honesty. Writing them down captures fresh ideas. In her view, later thoughts are often shaped by second-guessing and fear. Honest first impressions give writing a living quality.

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