Does anyone else use pictures (from internet or magazines) or even go to locations to get you 'in the mood' for your writing? I feel more 'in the moment' when its raining, during autumn/winter or if I'm looking at pictures of an autumn/winter scene, or even moody foggy scenes. Basking in the sun just doesn't do it for me. Could these things be considered my muse?
Yeah. I use pictures, music, and sound effects, like 6 hours of rain and thunder on YouTube. It's quite effective, but it can put you in some dark places sometimes.
There are also these kinda pages: http://www.rainymood.com/ As for the OP, I don't usually make use of any visuals, sounds, etc. to get in the mood for writing. I do, however, make use of sounds and music while I'm writing in order to get more immersed in the feel and mood of the scene.
Yes, Rainymood is excellent white noise. Youtube has a great selection. Also, this thread title can be easily taken the wrong way
Rain and thunder would put me in a mood not create the right mood for writing. It's more location for me. I use pictures for prompts especially when developing characters. I did. Reminds me of teenage boys in a magazine shop trying to reach the top shelf. But what a great title for creating interest and driving traffic to the thread!
Absolutely. But not to get me 'in' the mood. More to help drive the tone. I have a folder of pictures and often have one or two open next to my word doc.
I used to have a small photo of a reindeer in the snow glued to my phone while I was writing my first book (which was all about the snow). I put it there on purpose, and it did the trick!
If I listen to certain sounds or look at certain pictures I form a scene in my head. I'm then able to dive into that scene and start creating.
I usually have a specific song that I listen to or image that I look at while writing a particular scene which I think fits the mood. It actually is a massive help like you couldn't believe. If I have writers' block I can just browse through related images or listen to songs and become inspired again. It really helps the imagination.
I usually use music heavily in idea generation (although not while writing) - and I also order concept sketches of my characters on DeviantArt so that I can actually look them in the eye.
I definitely use pictures, and music as well, while thinking about my story. Both give me ideas and free up my brain. However, the only music I use while actually writing is non-demanding classical music (chamber music or classical guitar) mostly to drown out distractions.
