Elizabeth Gilbert, author of Eat, Pray, Love is coming to Toronto!  Gilbert will be promoting her new book, Big Magic, a self-help type of book discussing creativity.  In preparation for the event, I did some pre-reading and have to admit, the book was not what I expected.

For anyone who read the book The Secret – after all of the hype on the Oprah show – Big Magic has a similar tone.  Gilbert shares that creativity is waiting and that individuals need to be open to the universe, to let creativity in.  While there are some helpful tips embedded in the book, I have to profess my incredulity towards being open to the universe.

I can’t help but go back to the Internal vs. External Locus of Control and admit to adhering to the Internal Locus of control where individuals have the power and control over their own existences, making decisions and choices that impact their experience.  I struggle with the thought that chance, luck and outside circumstances control creativity.  I like to think that this outside control may inspire creativity but that individual decisions and choice guide action.

While the book was an easy read, I can’t say that I loved it.  I am, however, looking forward to hearing Elizabeth Gilbert speak and hope that this will enhance my thoughts of Big Magic.  I think she has been brave sharing her unorthodox views and admire her independence and adventure from Eat, Pray, Love.  Unfortunately there is not a book signing but participants will receive a pre-signed copy of her book – I would have loved the opportunity to have my copy of Eat, Pray, Love signed.

i go