The Pen Gremlin
There’s a voice in my head I call the Pen Gremlin, a ball of anxiety that’s related to my Inner Critic (whom I’ve renamed my “Outer Critic” as a reminder that I’d never say to anyone else what I tell myself.) They’re not the same. My Critic is very clear about how I can’t write, but my Pen Gremlin is more insidious. Instead of outright critique, it asks questions. What if this scene isn’t working? What if I don’t have the right character arc? What if my world-building isn’t clear? What if, what if, what if???
On the surface, the “what-ifs” may seem helpful. I do need to ensure scenes are working. I do want strong character arcs. I do need clear world building. But my Pen Gremlin pulls me into a frenzied spiral. If my scene isn’t working, then I have to revise it. But what if I revise it and it’s still not working? What if I can’t get the next scene to work either? What if the whole story isn’t working???
So how do I pull back from Pen Gremlin’s clutches? By reminding myself there are other answers to Pen Gremlin’s questions. What if this scene isn’t working? I can get help. What if the story sucks? Then I’ve learned what doesn’t work so I’ll get it right next time.
It’s easy to listen to the loudest voices in your head, but remember, your Pen Gremlin and Inner Critic (Outer Critic) aren’t the only ones.