Writing Advice From The Late Great Larry Gilbert

I write plenty regarding what I don't like about Facebook, so let me switch things up and share something I do like about it. I love when my friends post really good articles, videos, and quotes like this gem posted last week by fellow comedy writer Julie Klausner from Mike Sacks’ book, And Here’s The Kicker. The quote is from the legendary Larry Gelbart, who passed away last Friday, offering advice he would give to writers beginning their careers.

When you’re writing and come to a rough spot and the ideas just aren’t flowing, put down dummy text and keep on moving—especially if it’s at the end of the day and you’re going to stop. Your brain will never stop for the day, even if you have stopped working, and there’s a very good chance you’ll come up with something better. Also, at the very least, you’ll have something to come back to the next day, instead of a blank page. That’s important. But in general terms, just sit your ass down in a chair and hope your head gets the message.

I love that! If you're a writer, I'm sure you appreciate that advice, too.Larry Gelbart was an award-winning comedy writer best known for developing the landmark TV series "MASH," co-writing the book for the hit Broadway musical "A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum" and co-writing the classic movie comedy "Tootsie." He died of cancer on September 11 at the age of 81. In his honor, the marquees of Broadway theaters were dimmed for one minute on Tuesday, September 15 at 8 p.m. Take Action Prevent and help fight cancer