In one of my favorite scenes from the movie Shakespeare in Love, Will Shakespeare is about to begin work.  He sharpens his quill pens, lights his lamp, spins around twice, spits, then starts writing.

Though I could do without the spitting, I can certainly identify with the rituals writers enact to psych themselves up to face the blank page.  As a rule, writers thrive on routine and ritual.  We want a certain pen, a particular color notebook, a specific piece of music playing in the background.  We light candles, say prayers and wait for the muse to descend.

Writing rituals are more than superstition, however.  They serve to prepare our minds and bodies for the work of creation.  Like Pavlov's dogs, we respond to our chosen rituals, not by salivating, but by turning on our imaginations.  For this reason, rituals can be a powerful tool.

Rituals are as individualistic as writers.  Amy Tan listens to movie soundtracks when she writes.  In fact, many writers choose music to suit the mood of their stories.  Hearing the music immediately transports them to their imaginary world.

Other writers prefer to call on their sense of smell to trigger a writing response.  They burn incense or infuse the air with essential oils.  My friend Lynda Cooper, who writes for Kensington's Encanto line,  buys a large candle at the beginning of each new book. She lights the candle when she sits down at her desk.  When the candle is finished, so is the book.

Other writers wear certain clothes as their writing uniform. William Saroyan always wore a particular hat when he sat down to write. When he put on his writer's hat, every part of him knew it was time to go to work.  I even know one writer who writes in the nude.  She says it's the one sure way to keep her in her chair!

Speaking of chairs, some writers find they write best in particular chairs or certain locations.  This can even vary from book to book.  I wrote one book seated on the loveseat in my living room.  For some reason, that book demanded to be written there, even though I usually prefer to work at my desk.

Some writers like certain things around them on their desks ù pictures, stuffed animals, statues.  These may be items which remind them of their book, or silly good luck charms that make them feel more at ease.  

Do you have writing rituals?  If not, why not experiment with rituals to help encourage your writing efforts?  As for me, I on my way now to buy a candle. . .