Author’s Note

The original Practice was printed by the thousand, with hidden binding, French paper, and a ribbon bookmark.

I loved making it, but I eventually realized that storing and shipping thousands of books out of my house was cutting into the time where I actually get to write (and my closet space).

So now Practice is available as a download.
Use it digitally on a tablet or e-ink writer, print it at home, or take the included files and specs to a local printer and make your own physical copy.

Instead of me printing thousands, you can make one or two at a time, whenever you need them. Much more sensible.

Thanks for sharing this practice with me.

— HALF SHY

P.S. There are ~18 physical copies of the original left.

DIGITAL/PRINTABLE

DOWNLOAD EDITION

“Writing is easy: all you do is sit staring at a blank sheet of paper until the drops of blood form on your forehead." - Gene Fowler

PRACTICE | A MONTHLY LYRIC WORKBOOK

WRITING GETS BETTER WITH PRACTICE

WHEN YOU FIRST sat down at a piano, how good did you expect to play? Did you imagine that just by putting your hands on the keys you’d know exactly what to do? Why is it then when sitting down to write, you beat yourself up expecting that same sort of magic? 

Just like playing an instrument, writing is a skill - one that gets better with practice. This monthly workbook will be your guide through the fog. A daily writing routine much less intimidating than the blank pages of an empty journal, it includes three sections:

  • A morning “boot up” routine to clear your head and organize your thoughts
  • Thirty-one days of practice through daily writing exercises
  • A song-writing toolbox to turn practice into a finished project every month

Here you can leave behind the self-defeating procrastination of perfectionism. Embrace the idea that practice will be imperfect - this book is a refuge for embarrassing and wild ideas. 

Take risks, humor yourself, and try your best. By showing up each day your best will only get better.

  • 112 Pages | 6" x 8.5" | Wire-O
  • Made in the USA 

Five Core Themes

Taking Care Of Yourself

Learn From the Work of Others

Consistent Technical Practice

Trying New Things

Finishing Your Projects

MADE IN THE USA USING SUSTAINABLE MATERIALS

Practice Lyric Workbook cover corner closeup

"WRITE MORE..."

The advice is everywhere. "Write more to get better" - but what does "more" really mean? While the empty expanse of a blank page can feel like an endless freedom, with a flip of a coin - a paralyzing overwhelm.

This book is a guide through the fog. We'll take it day by day practicing the skills that will hone your craft and broaden your knowledge.

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