Summary

Gilbert thinks it is important for creatives to believe that their work loves them as much as they love it. She rejects claims by writers like Norman Mailer who say that their work has killed them slowly. Gilbert cautions against mistaking "self-destruction for a serious-minded commitment to creativity" (210). She believes it is legitimate to enjoy the creative process.

Gilbert tells readers to be wary of becoming a Tortured Artist who uses creativity as an excuse to behave badly. She tells readers to trust the creative power of love over suffering, and to believe that their creativity loves them back. Gilbert wants readers to approach their work as she does, with stubborn gladness. She believes in choosing a playful and curious approach to creativity rather than becoming a martyr.

Gilbert encourages readers not to take their work too seriously. She writes about a...