Writing Before Inspiration Strikes: Lessons From the Desk of a Mystery Author

Dorothy Parker once said, “Writing is the art of putting the butt to the seat.”

She couldn’t be more right. As an author working on my upcoming mystery book for young adults, I’ve learned that the magic doesn’t appear when you’re “ready.” It happens when you show up — even before you feel inspired, even before your coffee kicks in, and yes, sometimes before you’ve even changed out of your pajamas.

The simple act of sitting down at your desk, fingers hovering over the keys, has a way of tricking your brain into action. The mind is a master at adapting to its environment — much like how the sight of a delicious meal makes you hungry, soft music calms you, or a well-crafted horror movie sends chills down your spine.

Writing works the same way. Start typing, and your creativity will catch up. One sentence leads to another. A half-formed idea blossoms into a scene. And before you know it, your characters — those “crazy” little voices in your head — are dragging you into the next chapter whether you’re ready or not.

This is exactly how some of my most gripping plot twists for my YA mystery novel have appeared — not in a lightning bolt of inspiration, but in the quiet, disciplined moments when I simply showed up.

So if you’re an aspiring writer or even just curious about how mystery books for young adults are born, here’s my advice:

"Stop waiting for the perfect mood. Put yourself in the chair. Start. The words will follow."

And when they do, you might just surprise yourself with what unravels — a secret, a clue, a twist that even you didn’t see coming.

Stay curious. Stay persistent. And keep your seat warm. That’s where the mystery begins.

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