Writing Process Thoughts

I've been reflecting lately on the Writing Process and I've discovered I'm the happiest when I'm in the center of it all which Joe Walker called "The Divine State Of Possession." Every writer approaches the situation differently. Some work from what they call pure inspiration and just begin writing the script. Some meticulously plan characters, arcs, themes etc. and then go to script. In the beginning I brainstorm an idea by asking myself some salient questions such as 1) Why am I excited about this? 2) What is the single most interesting image this idea conjures up in my soul? 3)Do I have a sense of where it begins and ends? After thinking about these things and maybe, if I am so moved, I record these notions. I wait to see if I'm still excited about these notions tomorrow and the next day. If I am, then I continue the exploration and begin looking for a structure to help organize things. For me the idea must contain a continuing, sustainable excitement to move forward. The ideas that resonate deeply are the ones worth your time and effort. And time and effort are what it takes to really excavate something of value to the writer. It's not a matter of who else may love the idea----it's a personal connection that counts. There will always be those who don't feel it as much as you as well as those who are supportive. I'm not saying the audience doesn't count. I'm saying in the beginning stages you are the audience and you have to have rocket fuel to launch your craft. The Divine State of Possession occurs when you are in the throes of your creation and cannot rest until the story is hammered out. Then you can step back and allow the critical eye of evaluation to have a say. And all this is before you show the work to anyone else. You make the initial adjustments before other trusted sources offer feedback. In this way a context and framework has been established and you can pick and choose the advice that will help you further hone your work.