jaylake posted some interesting thoughts about quitting writing, so I composed (i.e. borrowed liberally from A.A.) this reply to it, then decided I'd put it up here instead. Jay's original post is in response to a blog named "101 Reasons to Stop Writing" at http://101reasonstostopwriting.blogspot.com/

So, Jay, here's what I think about quitting: Oh, I can quit any time I want. I've quit dozens of times. Also, I hear there is a patch you can get that lessens the cravings.

I also have learned that there are classic signs that someone needs help quitting.

1. Do you ever write more when you are disappointed, under pressure or have had a quarrel with someone?
2. Can you handle more writing now than when you first started?
3. Have you ever been unable to remember part of the previous evening, even though your friends said they didn't think you were composing?
4. When writing with other people, do you try to write a few extra paragraphs that others won't know about?
5. Do you sometimes feel uncomfortable if paper and pen or your computer is not available?
6. Do you sometimes feel a little guilty about your writing?
7. Are you in more of a hurry to get to your first writing for the day than you used to be?
8. Has a family member or close friend ever expressed concern or complained about your writing?
9. Have you been having more memory 'blackouts' recently?
10. Do you often want to continue writing after your friends say you've had enough?
11. Do you usually have a reason for the occasions when you wrote heavily?
12. When you're away from your writing area, do you sometimes regret things you said while writing?
13. Have you tried switching computer programs or writing with a different brand of pen, or following different plans to control your writing?
14. Have you sometimes failed to keep promises you made to yourself about controlling or cutting down on your writing?
15. Have you ever had a DWI (driving while introverting) or DUI (driving under the influence of the muse) violation, or any other legal problem related to your writing?
16. Do you try to avoid family or close friends while you are writing?
17. Are you having more financial, work, school and/or family problems as a result of your writing?
18. Has your physician ever advised you to cut down on your writing?
19. Do you eat very little or irregularly during the periods when you are writing?
20. Do you sometimes have the "shakes" in the morning and find that it helps to write a "little" poem, like a haiku, to calm yourself?
21. Have you recently noticed that you can't write as much as you used to?
22. Do you sometimes stay inspired for several days at a time?
23. After periods of writing do you sometimes see or hear things that aren't there?
24. Have you ever gone to anyone for help about your writing?
25. Do you ever feel depressed or anxious before, during or after a bout of heavy writing?

Answering "yes" to any of these questions may indicate you have a writing problem. Seek help! There are professional programs (many involving 12 steps) available in your area.