Rodney Said:

Hoe can I open my mind more to write a book or poem or even a story?

We Answered:

There are a couple of ways you can beat writer's block. Here are some that work for me:

1. Just write about anything. Don't try to write creatively, or have any goal in mind. Just write down whatever is in your head. You can even start with, "There is nothing in my head. I can't think of anything to write." Force yourself to put words on paper for at least a page, and you may find that somewhere in there you get on a roll with a thought that turns itself into something good. Getting started is the hardest part!

2. Go down to a place where you know there are usually a lot of people walking around (like a strip mall), find an outdoor table to sit at, and people watch. Take your notebook and write down observations about the people you see. Write down snippets of conversations you hear. Describe them, talk about the person you think they might be, make up a life story for them. Let those people get your creative juices churning. When I people watch I usually go to a local coffee shop, or sometimes will just sit at some outdoor tables somewhere and watch the people come and go.

3. Read. Sometimes the best inspiration is reading other people's good writing. Two of my favorite poets are e.e. cummings and Robert Frost. Check out some of their stuff if you haven't read much on them.

Good luck!

Ricardo Said:

to muslims: is it haram to write a fiction book?

We Answered:

It doesn't mean anything, but you are allowed to write a fiction book. It's not haraam.

Nina Said:

Could I write a book on animal behavior without a PhD or a masters degree?

We Answered:

You can write a book on whatever you want. The problem is getting it published and then getting people to read it. Without such degrees, not many people will take you seriously.