When someone says, "contemporary literary genius,"
one name comes swiftly to my mind—Lauren Groff. Having had the immense
privilege to catch a glimpse behind the curtain into Groff's world of writing,
I felt compelled to share it. For every bibliophile, aspiring writer, or Groff
enthusiast, this one's for you.
1. Nature: The Prime Muse
It was a cool autumn morning when I first met Lauren. She
lives in Florida, where she often speaks of the humidity and lush green
environment that surrounds her. Not surprisingly, nature plays a significant
role in her writing process. “It's as if the words breathe easier,” she told
me, her eyes reflecting the vibrant trees outside her window. She often takes
long walks, allowing the serene environment to marinate her thoughts and ideas.
2. Discipline over Inspiration
You'd think a writer of her stature would wait for
inspiration to strike. But no, Groff is a firm believer in discipline.
"Writing is like muscle memory," she said. Every morning, she's at
her desk by 7 am, diving into the world she's creating. Even if the words don’t
flow, the act of sitting there, wrestling with the page, is all part of the
journey.
3. Reading: The Nutrients of a Writer’s Soul
It's no surprise that Groff is an avid reader. She often
draws parallels between reading and nourishment. "Books are
sustenance," she mentioned, pulling out a well-worn copy of Virginia
Woolf's “To the Lighthouse.” For Groff, reading isn’t just pleasure; it's an
essential tool that refines her craft.
4. Acceptance of the Ebb and Flow
Like all artists, Groff, too, has her moments of doubt.
"There are days when I question everything,” she confessed, “but those
days are just as valuable." Instead of shying away from this uncertainty,
she embraces it. These moments of questioning often lead to deeper insights and
more profound revelations in her work.
5. The Tangible and the Intangible
Groff's writing space is a haven. Bookshelves teem with
literary gems, potted plants breathe life into the room, and scattered notes
lie everywhere. These notes are snippets of overheard conversations, fleeting
thoughts, and random musings. They might not all find a place in her works, but
they shape the subconscious mind that weaves her tales.
6. Vulnerability: The Crux of Connection
One of the most enlightening moments during our conversation
was when she spoke about vulnerability. “To be a writer,” Groff stated, “is to
lay oneself bare.” This vulnerability is palpable in every sentence she crafts,
allowing readers to resonate deeply with her narratives.
As the sun began to set, casting a warm glow into her room,
our conversation came to a close. Walking away, I was reminded that genius
isn't just an innate talent—it's a product of dedication, passion, and
relentless pursuit. Lauren Groff, without a doubt, stands as a testament to
what it truly means to be one of "our finest living writers."
If you've ever wondered how the magic happens, I hope this
small window into Groff's world provides some inspiration. Here's to the words,
the tales, and the undying spirit of storytelling. 🍁📚🖋️
