How Do You Describe the Muse? | Serious Question for Writers

When I read Stephen King’s On Writing: Memoir of the Craft, I found the description of his muse hysterical. Ever since then, I’ve been trying to figure out how to describe mine. It hasn’t been easy. Where do I start?

Other Writers’ Descriptions

I’ve read a variety of descriptions from a lot of different writers. A goddess. A guiding angel. A light in the darkness. Etc, etc.

I can’t relate.

Why do Writers Describe the Muse as Having a Gender?

Mine alternates genders. Why? I don’t know. I guess it just depends on the story. When I write, I focus on the emotions of the characters to show the story, so I’m more dialogue-driven than anything else. This is partly why I decided to create graphic novels as illustrated books for adults. Though, mostly because graphic novels allow me to use all my skills: graphic design, art, and writing, all in one project.

Lily’s Muse

My muse has a whip and isn’t afraid to use it. A dom or mistress dressed in PVC and sometimes a leather mask. More often than not, I find myself begging my muse. Yes, master or mistress, may I have another? Sometimes my muse is kind. Sometimes not. But I write everything down anyway.

There’s an old joke. Why do you keep stabbing yourself with a pencil? Because it feels so good when the pain stops.

My muse is a badass bastard, regardless of gender.

The small acts of kindness will often be brief moments of enlightenment. This part of the story connects with that other part, do you see it now? Yes, I do see it, may I have another?

No. Keep writing.

Cracking whip.

Am I a Masochist?

In every day life, no. I don’t enjoy pain. I’m neither dominant or submissive. I just know myself and know how to get what I need. I’m not one to dither, hem and haw. Pick a direction and just go.

Yet, I’m completely in love with the questionable relationship that I have with my muse. And I wouldn’t want it any other way.

Show me Yours

I want to responses from other writers. How would you describe your muse? It can’t be any worse than mine. But, hey, surprise me.

Share your descriptions on Twitter or Facebook.