Fleetwood Mac for Writer’s Block

Everyone experiences writer’s block for one reason or another. What I find to be true, is that the way to shake up the juices and creative brushes in your head is different for everyone. So I will share one of my strategies. The most honest way is to just live and go places with friends and family, but since that is not always realistic or affordable, turn to YouTube. Turn to the live shows that people recorded on their phones or camcorders or TV cameras. Let’s begin with one of the greatest musical groups in history. 

Pre-1987 Fleetwood Mac live performances is one way I dig for ideas. Really, it works with any live music performance, but let’s take baby steps and start with Gold Dust Woman. Am I going to write about the performance like a journalist? Heck no. Am I going to document every movement by Stevie and Lindsey? No. I am just going to watch and think about what the story on stage is. The story behind the words and the sounds. Pain, lust, love, betrayal, mysticism, disdain, sleepiness, whatever you see. The awesome thing about this—there’s no one right answer. 

When I watch this performance of Gold Dust Woman I am transported to other places just by watching Stevie’s face. I am transported to other beings and existences. Have no idea what I am talking about? I think you do. Admit it! You do. The actual words coming out of her mouth are irrelevant. It’s how she sings them and the message behind her eyes and her swishy, silky, 70s ways. Yesss…..See it? Now write. Ohh…Is Stevie about to float above the crowd? Meet Lindsey in another dimension or time? Is Mick Fleetwood actually Santa Claus? Surely they’re on another planet. You get the hang of it?

This works for just about any live performance. The best I can recommend: Bjork, Billy Joel, Florence and the Machine, Prince, Freddie Mercury, and Tori Amos. Just to name a few. 

Get the block outta here, 

—Elaina GOLD DUST WOMAN 1977