The Muse – what happens when creatives invoke theirs?
The Muse is traditionally thought to have appeared in ancient times when those writing poetry, hymns or epic history would call Her in. They did so through invocation, which typically occurred at or near the beginning of commencing their work. That’s when the composer, artist or author called for help or inspiration. Or simply invited the Muse to ‘sing’ through their work.
A more or less quiet, yet vital partner in story creation
The Muses of today are not often invoked so formally
Except perhaps in popular culture. Such as the film industry’s celebration of this part of creative mind with a comedy classic, The Muse (1999). About a has-been filmmaker (Albert Brooks) who hears of a modern day Greek Muse (Sharon Stone).
Magic escalates as the muse character inserts herself within his story. And, when Brooks engages Stone’s services, she begins to instigate nonstop fun. But ofttimes with a catch. Her antics escalate, which fills him with sheer panic. Impossible situations explodes into comedic, yet teachable moments.
What about mine?
How interesting if mine would show up like Sharon Stone’s character.
However, the one I engage seems mostly non-physical. (A polite term for the ‘invisible friend.’) However, isn’t that the point of fiction? Fables are filled with imaginary-come-to-life beings.
And my invisible partner does reveal herself as what flows through my pen, which happens without much conscious thought on my part. That’s how I know she’s real, I suppose. In my case, I consider my ‘invisible friend’ as one of the fully functioning members of my active-imagination team.
There can always be more to share on the spiritual life of such things. Maybe mine will write her own autobiography as one of my fables… There. She’s done it again.
O! for a muse of fire, that would ascend the brightest heaven of invention. ~ William Shakespeare
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