Researching Postcapitalist Possibilities

“The desire to write grows with writing” is a quote attributed to Desiderius Erasmus of Rotterdam, a prolific writer, theologian and humanist in the 15th Century. I have not been able to find the source of the quote, but it continues to circulate because it seems like the truth of it is widely recognised by writers.

It has been on my mind lately as I have committed to writing 250 words a day on a new book, tentatively titled Postcapitalist Economies of Care. The 250 words started out as difficult — I needed to figure out a structure, a point, then write within that structure and point, which usually required some reading. But as I have gone on, for 3 weeks now, it has become easier. In fact, I come to sit in my home study in both early morning and late afternoon in the weekend just for the pure pleasure of it, even if I have already managed the 250 words.

It’s a strange experience really. I think the desire to write grows with writing as you start to figure out what you are trying to say then find the time and the way to say it. Right now, I’m only halfway through my chapter structure, but already at my word count for it — what that means is that I’m quite motivated to get back to it, get on with the next section and get to the end of the piece of work so I can then return to edit and sharpen.

I would also add that for me, the desire to write also grows with reading. When I read books, especially, I feel quite motivated to interact with their arguments and figure out how they differ or complement what I am thinking.

Finally, I’ve been working on a variety of interesting projects for a decade, and working on a new book is an opportunity to reflect on what they all mean and how they all help me consider my broader project of transitioning to postcapitalist economies of care. Watch this space!