“I’m sorry to say I’m more on the side of not wanting to believe in [writer's block]. I’ve always assumed that naming any delay in my process gives it power over me, so that’s the last thing I want to do. Any time I can’t move forward I just step away, take a walk, do something different and trust that the muse will move me when I’m ready.” – Heather Feeney
“Because of the fundamental connection between writing and reading, I feel that “writer’s block” – and this holds especially true for academic writing – is most often a result of reader’s block. That is, when students are struggling with what it is they want to say, it’s often because they haven’t digested enough information on the topic they wish to write about. And what they’ll find is that by doing more careful, engaged reading (i.e. taking notes, highlighting, annotating) they are better equipped to begin the writing process. Any time I come to a “block” in my writing, the first thing that I will think to do is read – read in an effort to fuel the writing fire. Many writers will tell you that a well stated idea, or a short passage or phrase – or even the right word – can be enough to spark the flame inside that will burn through any barrier and release pent up ideas out onto the page.” – Matthew Gardner
