Demons...

Real writers talk about their own lives, their own deepest fears and terrors and passions, in the midst of telling their “fictional” tales. If that seems too difficult or awkward, leave that material alone for now.

Over the course of time, you will find yourself going more and more deeply into what you need to get said. You will make friends with your demons, learn how to lead them out of their dusty cages—teach them to sing at your bidding and for your pleasure. But for now, write about what’s comfortable to write about. Let the demons lie. They won’t go anywhere: they’ll be there when you are ready to start taming them. Ultimately, other writers, other brave spirits, will give you the courage you need.

--Steve Kowit, In the Palm of Your Hand, p. 48