Elizabeth Gilbert: Your elusive creative genius

The speaker reflects on the challenges and fears associated with a successful writing career, particularly after the unexpected success of 'Eat, Pray, Love.' She explores historical perspectives on creativity, contrasting ancient beliefs of external divine inspiration with modern views of individual genius. The speaker shares personal strategies to manage creative pressure, drawing on examples from other artists like Tom Waits. She advocates for a shift in perspective, suggesting that creativity might be seen as a collaboration with an external force, rather than solely an internal struggle.

What change in perspective does the speaker suggest regarding the source of creativity?

How does the speaker relate their own creative process to that of poet Ruth Stone?

What does the speaker suggest about the relationship between the artist and the divine in the creative process?

What advice does the speaker give to those feeling pressure in their creative work?