Writing Down the Bones: Freeing the Writer Within, 2nd Edition

By Natalie Goldberg

For more than twenty years Natalie Goldberg has been challenging and cheering on writers with her books and workshops. In her groundbreaking first book, she brings together Zen meditation and writing in a new way. Writing practice, as she calls it, is no different from other forms of Zen practice —"it is backed by two thousand years of studying the mind."

This new edition, which marks almost twenty years since the original book's publication, includes a new preface in which Goldberg expresses her trademark enthusiasm for writing practice, as well as a depth of appreciation for the process that has come with time and experience. Also included is an interview with the author in which she reflects on the relationship between Zen sitting practice and writing, the importance of place, and the power of memory.

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224 pages

Average rating: 9.27

15 RATINGS

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Community Reviews

BookListLinda
10/10 stars
https://cerebralspice.wordpress.com/2025/09/17/book-list-the-gift-of-sabbatical

Just as good the second time, albeit a couple decades apart. Goldberg inspires and encourages, and includes helpful exercises that can jumpstart writing.
Ellery
10/10 stars
This is a very good book for someone who is just starting out as a writer.