Elizabeth Gilbert: “City of Girls” | Super Soul Sunday S9E10 | Full Episode | OWN

Introduction

This tutorial provides insights based on Elizabeth Gilbert's discussion about her novel "City of Girls" on Super Soul Sunday. It highlights key themes, writing advice, and personal reflections that can inspire both readers and aspiring writers.

Step 1: Embrace Creativity

• Understand the Importance of Creativity: Gilbert emphasizes that creativity is essential for personal fulfillment.
• Allow Yourself to Create Freely: Don't limit your imagination; write without the fear of judgment.
• Experiment with Different Forms: Try writing in various styles and genres to find your voice.

Step 2: Explore Themes of Love and Relationships

• Focus on Human Connections: Gilbert's novel revolves around love in its many forms, including friendship and romantic relationships.
• Reflect on Your Own Experiences: Draw from personal experiences to create authentic and relatable characters.
• Consider the Complexity of Relationships: Explore how relationships evolve over time and how they shape individuals.

Step 3: Learn from Failure

• Accept Mistakes as Part of the Process: Gilbert discusses how failure can lead to growth and new opportunities.
• Use Rejection as Motivation: Instead of being discouraged by setbacks, let them drive you to improve and try again.
• Keep Writing: Maintain a consistent writing schedule to refine your skills despite challenges.

Step 4: Cultivate a Supportive Community

• Surround Yourself with Like-Minded Individuals: Connect with other writers or artists who can inspire and support you.
• Share Your Work: Don’t hesitate to share your creations for constructive feedback.
• Engage in Discussions: Participate in workshops or book clubs to enhance your understanding of the craft.

Step 5: Reflect on the Role of Women in Literature

• Acknowledge Historical Context: Gilbert highlights the representation of women in literature and the importance of female voices.
• Write Strong Female Characters: Create multidimensional female characters that reflect real-life complexities.
• Challenge Stereotypes: Use your writing to address and dismantle societal stereotypes about women.

Conclusion

Elizabeth Gilbert's insights from "City of Girls" offer valuable lessons for readers and aspiring writers. Embracing creativity, exploring human relationships, learning from failure, cultivating community, and reflecting on women's roles in literature are all essential steps in the creative journey. Consider implementing these steps in your writing practice or as a reader to enrich your understanding of literature and its impact.