Creator vs. Critic

There are two parts of your brain that have to come together in order for you to be an effective writer: the creator and the critic. The two seem to be at odds with each other. The creator is a right brain function and is that part of your brain that is concerned with the process of writing. The critic is a left brain function and is that part of your brain that is concerned with the end product. The creator begins the writing process. The critic finishes it. Yet, these two very different parts of your brain interweave to produce effective writing. The creative process must begin with intuition and spontaneity and they must have free reign to get the first draft written. Without this creator, the writing would never get done. But the creator is the wild mind whose only goal is to express itself, to release, to emote. It doesn't care about function or structure or communication. That's where the critic comes in. Once the first draft is written, the critic can tame the writing, smooth the rough edges, and mold the writing into an effective work of art. The trick is to let each part of the brain do its work at the right time. Write first, edit later is the cornerstone of advice for writers. Try to let the creator write all your first drafts. There is plenty of time for the critic to come in and tidy up. Trust your creator. Let it do its job and you will be amazed at the results.