Big Magic: Creative Living Beyond Fear

Big Magic: Creative Living Beyond Fear
by Elizabeth Gilbert

Discussion Questions

1. Gilbert shares a long list of reasons why you might be afraid to live a creative life. Describe a time where one of these reasons (or your own reason) held you back. What did you do about it?

2. What is the difference between bravery and fearlessness? How can these affect your creativity?

3. What is a "multiple discovery"? Give an example. Extra points if it is a personal example from your life!

4. How does Gilbert respond to the assertion that "it's all been done before"?

5. Gilbert shares her opinion on the necessity of art school. How did your education benefit your career (whether art school or not)?

6. "Art is absolutely meaningless. It is, however, also deeply meaningful." What does Gilbert mean by this statement?

7. What does Gilbert say are the essential ingredients for creativity?

8. Explain the difference between a trickster and a martyr. Which one are you?

9. What is "combinatory play"? Do you ever use this technique?

10. Share a favorite quote or passage from the book and describe how it applies to your life.