Writing Down the Bones

By: Natalie Goldberg

Narrated by: Natalie Goldberg

Length: 8 hrs and 50 mins

Publisher's summary

With nearly one million copies of the book Writing Down the Bones in print, Natalie Goldberg has helped change the way writing is practiced in homes, schools, and workshops across America.

Here is a new collector's edition of this modern classic as you have never heard it before, read by Natalie Goldberg herself and then infused with her most personal reflections about this "magic manual" for all writers. Try these ingenious, Zen-based exercises to expand your writing skills - or just for fun.

© Natalie Goldberg; (P) Sounds True

Zen and the Art of Journaling

Consult any article on learning how to write and this book will come up. In truth, this book should be called "Zen and the Art of Journaling." Goldberg seamlessly infuses his personal practice of zen meditation with the art of writing. Let me tell you something straight up: this is NOT a "how to write" book. It is more a guide on how to spiritually benefit from and energize your writing. There are plenty of writing exercises and insights for the aspiring writer to enjoy in this book, but Goldberg's main focus is how to be in the now and then write in the now. The more I listened I realized how her perspectives were best used for poets and anyone who likes to journal. Sure, keeping a journal will help the writer develop their voice. But this is really a guide to get a closer, more intense spiritual experience from your writing. Even if you're not into Zen, the insights that Goldberg offers are well worth your time.

In this edition, Goldberg revisits her own text, adding additional ideas and experiences she's had in the 30 years since it was originally published. The problem is this is where the audio production fails. I can't tell what is the book and what is a current insight. Not that it matters much, but Goldberg's delivery is constant throughout the recording so it's impossible to tell where the book stops and her current thoughts begin.

This is a decent book for the aspiring writer to pick up and get a little energy boost, but don't expect any earth-shattering insights into the practice of writing. Go to Stephen King's "On Writing" for that. Also, I've listened to some live recordings of Goldberg's lectures and they are far more entertaining and interesting than this book. She has learned a lot in 30 years, so while it's good to revisit the original text here, I think her more recent insights will probably be more valuable. Just my $0.02.

A Delight!

It's a bit intimidating to write a review for a renowned classic such as Writing Down the Bones. The book is flawless. But I adore this recording with Natalie, not only reading her work, but then adding thoughts and commentary on her writing. Insightful and perhaps one of the most enjoyable Audibles I've listened to, just to hear the author's thoughts on her work.

good ending

the interview at the end is worth starting with and relistening.
the greatest take away is that writing is a form of meditation practice...and should be practiced regularly.

one of the favorite things she said is that her meditation taught her that thoughts are not to be relied on and they can deceive us....writing can help to flesh it out.

A tremendous gift to all writers

I am so touched by this book and by Natalie herself. It has been life changing for me.

Absolutely life changing...I am awestruck

I love Natalie, and and new profound connection with myself and my writing practice. This is such a gift, to have her story, in her voice, with her commentary as she reads. and I will be listening again.

I LOVE Her Voice! So helpful

If you love people; if you love different cultures and subcultures; you will absolutely love this book. It was like some said—having coffee with a dear friend or aunt. 💞

It also contained both motivation and practical tips. This book may not be for the Type A, highly structured, frenetically driven people. This book may not be for those who prefer money and ego over love, friendship, and true success.

But if you’re still reading this you may not be that person. I read it and it was unlike any book I’ve ever read. I’d certainly like to meet Ms. Natalie Goldberg someday. I liked her answer for the last question in the interview at the end.

Do it for yourself.

What’s wrong with her voice?

I love her voice. I’m a big fan of authors reading their own work, in general — it adds a lot for me. Remember that Goldberg has successfully taught writing for decades and has formed countless writers; this is the voice that she teaches in. It’s her voice. It’s her. It’s a no-nonsense, warm, down-to-earth New York voice. It’s a voice that contains sensible reminders for us all.

INSPIRATIONAL

Natalie Goldberg's invaluable guidance on writing offers such a wonderfully unique combination of both practical and creative advice. She is smart, funny, wise and simply brilliant at teaching writing.

Although there are, at times, some spiritual/philosophical issues she delves into that may not resonate with everyone, this audiobook at its core, is truly a celebration of the passion and joy of writing. It has inspired me to view writing in a different way and with more of an open mind. And an open mind is a beautiful thing!

Inspiring & great voice

Would you recommend this audiobook to a friend? If so, why?

I would recommend to fellow writers as it encourages people to listen to their inner voice and write.

Which character – as performed by Natalie Goldberg – was your favorite?

Natalie

What’s an idea from the book that you will remember?

Just write even if garbage

Any additional comments?

This is an inspiring book if you want to write. The focus isn't on the actual "how to write a sentence" type of material, but more on how to fit writing into your life and how to come up with ideas and a process to keep writing. Natalie Goldberg was the narrator and I loved listening to her voice.

excellent

most memorable moment,"noodle your way thru ,if your not a bulldog at writing .love it.I'm a noodle writer how blessed it is for me to be originally a noodle writer and it's ok.