Blank paper Quote by Derek Walcott
“Individual writers have different postures, different stances, even different physical attitudes as they stand or sit over their blank paper, and in a sense, without doing it, they are crossing themselves; I mean, it's like the habit of Catholics going into water: you cross yourself before you go in.”
About This Quote
Source Poem: "The Sea is History", Derek Walcott, 1975
Writers physically position themselves before blank pages, a ritual akin to a religious crossing, marking a mental preparation.
In simple terms: Physical stance prepares the mind to write.
Key Takeaway
Adopt a purposeful writing ritual.
Themes
creativity
ritual
mindfulness
Mood
reflective
inspirational
Type
poetic
philosophical
When to use this quote
- writing sessions
- public speaking
- performance
- meditation
Key Concepts
symbolism
embodiment
Questions to Reflect On
- How does your posture affect your work?
- Can you create a personal pre‑writing habit?
A Different Perspective
Ritual may not suit all writers.
