Dancing on the head of a pen : the practice of a writing life

In this masterful blend of the practical and the spiritual, Robert Benson invites you into the work and rewards of a writer's life. More than a primer on effective writing, Dancing on the Head of a Pen is a winsome guide to the place in the heart where the life of the spirit meets the life of art. " Dancing on the Head of a Pen is a pure delight to read. Encouraging, honest, practical, and important. I needed this book." --Melody Carlson, author of more 200 books including Finding Alice "With deceptive simplicity and an almost seductive easiness in his voice, Benson lays open before us the filigreed mystique of the writing life in all its beauty, its unmitigated angst, and its inescapable vocation." --Phyllis Tickle, author of numerous books including The Divine Hours "Robert Benson's Dancing on the Head of a Pen is a gem. It is wise, witty, and inspiring--a trifecta seldom achieved by a book on the writing... A compelling combination of advice and inspiration, Dancing on the Head of a Pen will challenge and encourage writers, artists, musicians, painters—anyone drawn to a life of artistic expression. Digging deeply into his own writing habits, failures, and successes, Robert Benson helps you choose the ideal audience for your work, commit to it, and overcome the hurdles that inevitably confront both aspiring artists and accomplished professionals. Extending beyond the craft of writing, this gentle book moves into a rich discussion on the relationship between spirituality and art. Including wisdom from revered writers past and present, Dancing on the Head of a Pen is a beautiful mosaic of inspiration, practical help, and a glimpse into the disciplines that shape one writer’s life. “ Dancing on the Head of a Pen is a pure delight to read. Encouraging, honest, practical, and important. I needed this book.” —Melody Carlson, author of more 200 books including Finding Alice “With deceptive simplicity and an almost seductive easiness in his voice, Benson lays open before us the filigreed mystique of the writing life in all its beauty, its unmitigated angst, and its inescapable vocation.” —Phyllis Tickle, author of numerous books including The Divine Hours “Robert Benson’s Dancing on the Head of a Pen is a gem. It is wise, witty, and inspiring—a trifecta seldom achieved by a book on the writing life.” —James Scott Bell, bestselling author of Plot & Structure "Inspiring insights on effective, artful writing from a beloved author, whose insights will resonate with writers, artists, musicians, craftspersons, and anyone drawn to creative pursuits"-- Provided by publisher