Big Magic: Creative Living Beyond Fear

Encourage readers to connect the book’s themes and characters with their personal experiences.

1. Gilbert argues that fear is a natural companion to creativity but shouldn’t be allowed to control it. Have you ever let fear hold you back from a creative or personal endeavor? How did you overcome it?

2. The book challenges the idea that artists must suffer for their work. Have you ever felt that struggle or sacrifice was necessary for success? Did Big Magic change your perspective?

3. Gilbert encourages people to create for themselves, rather than for external validation. Have you ever pursued a creative passion purely for personal enjoyment? How did that experience compare to times when you sought approval or success?

4. The book suggests that perfectionism can be a form of fear that prevents people from finishing their creative work. Have you ever struggled with perfectionism? How did you manage it?

5. Gilbert rejects the notion that one must have formal education or credentials to be a creator. How do you feel about this idea? Have you ever felt that a lack of training or experience kept you from pursuing something creative? 

6. The concept of persistence plays a big role in Big Magic. Have you ever worked on something despite setbacks or rejection? How did perseverance shape your experience?

Examine the book’s relevance to societal issues, historical events, or cultural themes.

1. Big Magic argues that creativity is for everyone and should not be exclusive to the arts or gatekept by institutions. How does this perspective challenge traditional views of what it means to be creative? 

2. Gilbert critiques the idea of the “tortured artist.” How do you see this stereotype reflected in your culture? Do you think it influences how artists and creative people are treated? 

3. This book suggests that creativity should not be tied to financial success or productivity. How does this idea contrast with societal attitudes about work and achievement?

Dive into the book’s structure, characters, themes, and symbolism.

1. Gilbert uses a conversational and humorous tone throughout Big Magic. How does this style affect the reading experience? Does it make the book more engaging or persuasive?  

2. The book is structured around six elements of creativity: courage, enchantment, permission, persistence, trust, and divinity. Which of these resonated with you the most, and why? 

3. Big Magic uses personification, describing ideas as living entities with agency. How does this literary technique shape the way readers think about creativity?  

4. Gilbert argues that “done is better than good,” encouraging creators to finish their work rather than strive for perfection. How does this perspective compare to traditional artistic or professional standards? 

5. Gilbert frequently tells stories and anecdotes to illustrate her points. Which story stood out to you the most, and why? How do stories and anecdotes contribute to a reader’s understanding of a nonfiction text?