Noise in the Shape of Writing

A wise man once told me (and the rest of our writing class) that "every would-be writer wants to write -- what you guys desire is to 'want to want to write' -- that's the key."

We all nodded knowingly at the time, but I don't think many of us really understood. I'm not sure I did either. But it sounds nice. For example, right now I want to write. But, this blog notwithstanding, I still find myself unable to sit down at the computer (or notepad) and begin that novel and/or screenplay I have in my head.

I remember teach added "If it was as simple as 'wanting to write,' you'd all be writing every night. But you aren't. So you don't 'want to write' yet. You all need to 'want to want to write.' "

Well, my brain hurts now. And my awesome story still isn't on the page. I seem only to be able to write in short, 3 page amounts (that's why comedy sketches come easy).

If any of you have some words of advice on how to "want to want to write," let's have em.

Most of the time I simply "want to sleep," but that's probably due to my sucky 3 hour commute (round trip).