I don't think it takes much. I write about things that I think need remembering-- it's often something that creates an emotional response in me- from wonder to frustration to fear to pleasure.

Is this a regular process for you, like journaling, or do you need to be especially moved in order to write?

In the past journaling was a daily process for me. It was a way to unload my brain, making space for new experiences to witness with an open mind. I've had much less time to write in residency-- the 80 hour work week means there are few hours left over in a day for anything but the essential-- during those times, I write when I have no choice-- when something so profound has occurred I will not forgive myself if I don't write it down.

Do you think that writing poetry or prose has made you a better doctor?

Personally I think it has made me a better doctor. In training our lives move extremely fast with little opportunity to think about the process we are going through. We are constantly in the midst of helping people through life-changing situations. Writing gives me a place to reflect upon and understand the experiences I've undergone along the road to becoming a physician. It helps me understand myself and my profession more.


Biography:

Books: Body Language: Poems of the Medical Training Experience