Before I start posting the next chapters of Lichtenbergianism: procrastination as a creative strategy, I have some pondering to do.

I’m fairly happy with the first two chapters, “Introduction to Lichtenbergianism” and “Framework,” but the chapters on the Nine Precepts are still not making me completely happy.  I know, one’s writing never makes one completely happy, but I’m not sure I’m saying what I want to say the way I want to say it.

For example, I think I need more anecdotes from my fellow Lichtenbergians about how the Precept has functioned in their work.  At this point, a book supposedly about a group of creative men is merely about me and I think that creates an uncomfortable disjuncture between the reader and the text.  Certainly, it was the participation and sharing of the assembled Lichtenbergians at the GHP seminar that made the topic so fascinating and inspired me to think that it was worth a book.

In Chapter 3, “TASK AVOIDANCE,” I wonder if I get bogged down with procrastination management.  There doesn’t seem to be a conclusion to the chapter yet.  Have I made the point effectively?  Is it funny enough?

So here’s what we’re going to do.  I’m going to brush up the chapter as best as I can and go ahead and post it in pieces.  That’s what this experiment is all about, isn’t it?  Sharing, beta-testing, audience engagement?  (see SUCCESSIVE APPROXIMATION, Chapter 5; and AUDIENCE,  Chapter 10.)

Any place I feel that there’s a gap in the texture, I will leave an XXX to indicate that someday I may write something to fill that gap.

In turn, you will comment helpfully to let me know what you think is missing.  (see GESTALT, Chapter 9.)

See you tomorrow!