Bitter Ground: On Dissatisfaction, Bitterness, and Breaking Up the Bad Ground:

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November 18, 2025 • 13 mins

In this episode of Write of Passage, Vanessa explores the deeper meaning of dissatisfaction—both on the page and in real life. She reflects on how creative frustration signals that it’s time to examine the bones of a story, from character motives and relationships to the lies they believe. Then she draws a powerful parallel to our lived experiences: how unaddressed dissatisfaction can root itself as bitterness, how bitterness spreads, and how healing requires honesty, boundaries, and letting go of the apology we may never receive. Through personal insight, humor, and lessons from Fire Sword and Sea, Vanessa invites listeners to break up the bitter ground, reconnect with their purpose, and keep moving forward with clarity and courage.

Key Words: dissatisfaction, creativity, writer’s block, character development, emotional healing, bitterness, forgiveness, letting go, personal growth, storytelling craft, relationships, boundaries, Jacquotte Delahaye, Fire Sword and Sea, resilience, healing journey, self-reflection, writing process, creative life, overcoming obstacles

Episode Notes & Extras

Find my full show notes, behind-the-scenes thoughts, and extras on Substack → vanessariley.substack.com

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.css-14f5ked{margin:0;word-break:break-word;display:-webkit-box;-webkit-box-orient:vertical;box-orient:vertical;-webkit-line-clamp:2;overflow:hidden;}Bitter Ground: On Dissatisfaction, Bitterness, and Breaking Up the Bad Ground: