Courtney Barnett overcomes writer’s block with assistance from a praying mantis
Courtney Barnett, a 38-year-old Australian musician, is excited to share her new music with the world this spring, despite the challenges she faced along the way. Known for her melodic rock sound with clever and observant lyrics, Barnett’s songs like “Avant Gardener,” “Depreston,” and “Before You Gotta Go” showcase her storytelling prowess.
However, the creative process was not without its difficulties. Barnett navigated a three-year journey of overcoming writer’s block while working on her new album, “Creature of Habit,” set for release this Friday. She recalled how, at times, she would spend a whole day writing only to leave with one changed word that satisfied her, causing confusion for those around her who couldn’t fathom how nothing substantial had been produced.
Drawing from past experiences and advice from other artists, Barnett learned to recognize the signs of self-doubt and lack of confidence that often accompany creative slumps. Her introspective process led her to craft songs like “Stay in Your Lane” and “Great Advice,” which reflect her internal struggle and the perseverance required to push through.
During the writing process, Barnett found unexpected inspiration from a praying mantis she encountered at her Joshua Tree home in California. Watching the insect go about its day served as a reminder to stay patient and embrace the creative journey. In particular, the song “Mantis” became a personal favorite for Barnett, capturing the essence of the writing process and the struggles she faced.
The themes of navigating change and embracing new beginnings emerged organically in Barnett’s music, coinciding with her recent move to California and the closure of her record label back in Australia. Reflecting on the album, Barnett noted the prevalence of the word “change” across multiple songs, indicating a subconscious exploration of transformation and growth.
Despite the challenges of the COVID era, Barnett’s decision to relocate to the United States aligned with her desire for change and a renewed appreciation for music. Now settled in her new home, Barnett looks forward to touring extensively with her band in the coming months, bringing her music to audiences across the country.
With writer’s block behind her, Barnett feels proud of the journey she undertook to create “Creature of Habit.” She acknowledges the personal barriers she had to break through and the decisions she had to confront, ultimately leading her to a place of creative fulfillment and self-discovery.