When I'm sitting at the desk not being able to write line one, it's silence and despair! It's not so easy to put the pen to the legal pad or type the first sentence on the computer screen.

In this quote, Erica Jong, an American author and poet, expresses the struggle that many writers face when trying to begin a new piece of writing. She describes the experience of sitting at her desk, unable to write even the first line, which brings about feelings of silence and despair. Jong captures the frustration and mental block that can accompany the beginning of a writing project, highlighting how daunting it can be to start something from scratch, whether with a pen on a legal pad or by typing on a computer screen.

The origin of this statement likely comes from Jong’s own experiences as a writer, where she has undoubtedly encountered moments of creative paralysis. Her use of silence and despair illustrates how these moments of writer’s block can feel isolating and overwhelming, often making the act of writing seem impossible. This sentiment reflects a common challenge faced by writers, who must overcome their own internal barriers before they can produce work.

Jong's comment also emphasizes the psychological aspect of writing. It's not just the physical act of putting words down on paper or a screen, but the mental process of pushing past self-doubt, fear, or a lack of inspiration. The difficulty she mentions in writing the first sentence underscores how the beginning of any creative endeavor can be the hardest part, setting the tone for the rest of the project.

Ultimately, Jong’s quote serves as a reminder of the challenges and vulnerabilities that come with the creative process. It speaks to the universal experience of writers' block, where starting is often the most difficult part, and underscores the emotional complexity of beginning a new creative work.