Will Maclean on F*cking Up a Notebook to Write a Novel
This first appeared in Lit Hub’s Craft of Writing newsletter—sign up here. There’s a great artist called Bobby Fingers whose YouTube channel documents him making insanely detailed sculptures of celebrities, taking the viewer on a journey through his creative process as he
Bobby Fingers, a YouTube artist, demonstrated his creative process by constructing a life-sized fiberglass rowing boat shaped like Jeff Bezos' face. He emphasized that this ambitious project took considerable time, yet he refrained from complaining, as it was his own undertaking and no one had demanded his effort.
This sentiment struck a chord with the author, highlighting that any worth or significance in one's creative work originates from their commitment to completing it. Despite lacking external interest or demand, the author must convince themselves that their endeavor holds value, as it is the initial step towards making it exist and matter in the harsh, unforgiving realm of reality.
Many writers have devised numerous methods to navigate this challenging phase. The author's approach involves starting with a pristine, untouched notebook and declaring to themselves that this is where the book will take form. They then intentionally "fuck up" the notebook, finding this act essential for the writing process. This method allows the author to explore various creative avenues, including painting, drawing, complaining, plotting, and even failing or succeeding without fear.
As the notebook fills with ideas, images, and other materials, it acts as a breeding ground for serendipity and randomness. The author's notes evolve, absorbing thoughts, relevant information, and personal expressions. The physicality of the notebook plays a crucial role, providing a contrast to the digital world and offering an outlet for the author's frustrations.
The author's notebooks are often cluttered, containing cut-up remnants, handwritten documents, photographs, stamps, and even pressed flower petals. These elements serve as reminders of the author's past and contribute to the novel's development. The author also establishes a dedicated space within the notebook for doubts, allowing them to acknowledge and compartmentalize these negative thoughts, preventing them from derailing the creative process.
Through this unconventional writing method, the author's ideas find their birthplace and must fight for survival or perish.
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