Unleashing Creativity: A Comprehensive Review of ‘Big Magic’ by Elizabeth Gilbert

At its core, Big Magic is an invitation to explore the vast landscape of creativity. Gilbert believes that creativity is not reserved only for the select few – it is a birthright that all of us possess. She encourages readers to approach creativity with a sense of curiosity, as if it were a magical force waiting to be harnessed. By doing so, we open ourselves up to inspiration and the discovery of unexpected ideas.

Gilbert strongly advises against becoming frustrated or angry simply because the creative process is difficult or doesn’t produce results right away. Instead, she encourages readers to give themselves time and space to create. Creativity does not adhere to a schedule; it can come at any time. The key is to be present and receptive to it, and to nurture the creative impulse without placing too many expectations on it.

As Elisabeth describes in the book, she has learned not to put undue pressure on her own creativity to provide fame, fortune, or any other specific outcome. Rather, she allows her creative process to unfold at its own pace, without forcing it. This open and patient attitude is central to Gilbert’s philosophy of “big magic” – the idea that we can access a wellspring of inspiration and self-expression if we approach it with wonder, trust, and a light touch.

Fear often accompanies the creative process. Gilbert acknowledges this dance between fear and creativity, emphasizing that fear is a natural companion on the creative journey. Instead of trying to banish fear entirely, she suggests inviting it along for the ride. Fear, after all, can signal that something important is at stake. When we acknowledge fear without allowing it to paralyze us, we can move forward with courage.

One of the most interesting parts of the book was Gilbert’s analysis of the experience of many famous creators and artists. Gilbert observes that achieving fame for one’s work often brings a new set of challenges. Society tends to build certain expectations around famous artists, which can make them feel anxious. Gilbert herself experienced this, she says, when people kept asking how she would “top” her bestselling memoir Eat Pray Love with her next work.

The key, the author emphasizes, is not to concentrate on these external expectations or to fear being mocked if one’s subsequent creations are less famous. Rather, the advice is to continue creating for oneself, not for anyone else’s approval or acclaim. Even if a work is less successful than a previous one, the act of creating itself should remain the primary motivation, not chasing fame or accolades. This perspective allows the artist to maintain their integrity and creative freedom, rather than feeling beholden to public expectations.

Gilbert describes inspiration as a fleeting visitor—an idea that flutters by and whispers in our ear. It’s up to us to catch it, nurture it, and bring it to life.

One of the more mystical parts of the book was when the author described a shared idea for a novel between her and a friend. The two women, both writers, had independently come up with the same basic premise – the same type of characters and setting – but at different times, several years apart.

Elisabeth had once felt strongly about an idea for a novel, but she had repeatedly postponed writing it. Years later, her writer friend told her that she had gotten an amazing idea for a book. When Elisabeth heard the details, she was shocked – it was essentially the same idea she had once had. Elisabeth’s theory was that the idea had “jumped” from her to her friend when they had met at a conference and hugged.

While this all sounds quite mystical and hard to believe, the main point Elisabeth makes is that we are “gifted” with ideas that often come to us seemingly out of nowhere. When an idea flows through us, we should honor it and act on it as soon as possible. Otherwise, the idea may flow out of us and we’ll lose it forever. It may then keep floating around, finding another “host” who will bring it to life.

At the same time, Elisabeth advises, if you do lose an idea, there’s no point in getting angry or dwelling on it. Instead, simply move on to the next new idea that comes your way, and be sure to recognize and act on it when it appears.

Big Magic straddles the line between spiritual musings and practical advice. Gilbert draws from her own experiences, including her time as a struggling writer, to offer insights. She believes that creativity is in some ways a spiritual endeavor, but it also requires a strong practical commitment.

Creativity is not always like “fairy dust” that magically appears – oftentimes it requires dedicated, consistent hard work. It’s not enough to simply wait for inspiration to strike; we must show up consistently and do the work, day in and day out.

Gilbert describes her own experience in this regard. Through her 20s, she worked various jobs, but always kept a notepad by her side to capture any ideas or interesting stories that came to her, even while waiting tables or bartending at night. It was like a daily exercise regime, akin to what a pianist might do – a consistent practice in order to build towards greater mastery and achievement.

Gilbert advocates setting aside even just 15-20 minutes each day to engage in creative practice, whether writing, painting, or any other creative pursuit. Over time, this disciplined approach can yield significant results, even if the initial sparks of inspiration are sporadic.

One of the book’s central messages is that we don’t need permission to create – not from our friends, family, or the people who surround us. We don’t know the motivations, values, or life experiences of others, so why should we let them validate our creativity and creative work? Gilbert encourages us to ignore other people’s thoughts and opinions, even those of our own parents, and instead let the creative inspiration take us wherever it leads.

The key is to create for the sheer joy of the process itself – to write, paint, dance, cook, or engage in any creative pursuit because it brings us alive and connects us to our truest selves. When we release the need for external approval, we can tap into this wellspring of authentic self-expression.

At the same time, the author does spend some time discussing the role of education for creative people. While she encourages valuing the power of education when the opportunity is available, she does not see it as a necessity, especially if it leads to crippling debt. In the end, Gilbert argues, we don’t need degrees, accolades, or any other form of external validation to justify our creative impulses and creative work. The permission and worthiness to create comes from within.

Big Magic isn’t just about artistic pursuits; it’s about living a creative life in all aspects. Gilbert encourages us to infuse creativity into our daily routines, relationships, and problem-solving. Whether we’re gardening, cooking, or organizing our workspace, we can approach it with a creative mindset.

Gilbert’s writing style in “Big Magic” is deep yet understandable, creative yet practical, unbelievable yet obvious. The book is drenched in anecdotes, life lessons, and advice. However, it does not give you tips on becoming a bestselling writer or acclaimed actor. Instead, it nudges you towards “living a life that is driven more strongly by curiosity than by fear.”

In conclusion, Big Magic is a delightful blend of wisdom, encouragement, and practical advice. At times, it feels like you’re listening to a captivating podcast, eager to hear what the host – in this case, Elizabeth Gilbert – will share next. Gilbert’s prose is warm and conversational, making the book read like an intimate heart-to-heart chat with a wise, trusted friend.

This book has the power to change one’s perspective on creativity and inspire readers to pursue their passions with a renewed sense of wonder and joy. As you make your way through the pages, you are invited to consider how you can invite more “magic” into your own life – how you can dance with fear, honor the spark of inspiration, and create without inhibition. The overarching message is that the world needs your unique creative expression.

For those intrigued by the book’s premise, I highly recommend exploring it further. It is available for purchase on Amazon, and the audiobook version (get your free trial on Audible here), narrated by the author herself, provides an especially immersive and compelling listening experience. Gilbert’s own narration allows her voice and personality to truly shine through, enhancing the sense that she is speaking directly to the reader.