The writing process needs to be more frequently understood, with many believing that good work must be perfect. However, Anne Lamott, in her essay “Shitty First Drafts,” and George Dila, in “Rethinking the Shitty First Draft,” debunk this myth, demonstrating that writing does not have to be a painful experience.
Lamott developed the term “shitty first draft,” stating that “Almost all good writing begins with terrible first efforts.” “You have to start somewhere.” This emphasizes that first drafts are not about perfectionism, but about allowing ideas to flow naturally. They serve as the foundation for what will eventually become a polished work of writing.
Dila expands on Lamott’s insights by encouraging writers to see first drafts as necessary components of the creative process. He writes: “The term ‘shitty first draft’ can imply that the draft is without value, but it can also be seen as a vital part of the creative process.” By shifting our perspective, we can see the first draft as an opportunity for exploration, where “what appears to be chaos can lead to clarity.”
Both authors emphasize the importance of accepting the messiness of writing. Lamott reminds us that, “you can’t get to the second draft without the first draft.” This acknowledgment frees writers from the constraints of perfectionism, allowing their creativity to flourish.
Finally, Dila argues that “the journey of writing can be joyful when we let go of our expectations and judgments.” By accepting the “shitty first draft” as a necessary step, we can turn the writing process into a fun journey of discovery. So let your ideas flow, embrace the chaos, and enjoy the process of writing.
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