From Coffee Shop Dream to Poetic Reality: The Genesis of Writer's Bloc
Published on: 18 June 2025
At Writer's Bloc, we believe in the transformative power of expression. It's a core tenet that guides everything we do, from our vibrant open mic nights to our broader vision for a creative community. But where did this passion for expression begin? For me, Calen Critchfield, the journey started with a long-held vision for a unique creative space.
I'd like to share a bit about the origins of Writer's Bloc, how my initial dream for a coffee shop became the platform it is today, and the philosophy that continues to drive our mission.
The Seed: A Vision for Expression
Writer's Bloc was always a vision I had: to create a space, like a coffee shop, that catered to local live music and poetry, always having an open mic. It was meant to be a place where people came to release their creative selves to the world.
The goal was to show people the ways of expression, being one of the biggest parts of our souls, and how important it was to harness that expression and let yourself be who you are, light chested, and to "express what is inside your chest."
While the physical coffee shop is still a dream I hope to realize in time, the essence of Writer's Bloc—creating a home for uninhibited expression—took root in an unexpected way.
The Launch: Open Mic Meets Techno Beats
The very first Writer's Bloc open mic poetry night was born out of a partnership to promote a techno music event. This event, aptly named "Love is a Technicolor Frequency," was designed to be more than just a party; it was an exploration of expression through dance. My intention was to show people how expression, in all its forms, allows for a flow from one state to another, connecting the mind, body, and soul.
The specific moment that truly cemented the power of this concept was watching people on stage, totally lost in their expression, getting that incredible release of weight off their chests. And then, feeling that same release myself when I performed.
It was a powerful epiphany: the need for spaces where individuals could truly "express what is inside their chest" was universal, transcending the boundaries of any single art form.
"Express What Is Inside Your Chest": Our Slogan and Philosophy
"Express what is inside your chest" isn't just a catchy phrase for Writer's Bloc; it's our slogan and guiding philosophy. For me, it means:
To let your heart roar out its beauty and not be tainted by anything. Let your expression shine through you in all the beautiful ways that it can.
This belief extends to all creative endeavors. People can harness this expression through their art, whether it be written, painted, danced, or sung. Creativity is the ultimate way to express your soul and your soul's purpose.
Evolution and Embracing Authenticity
From that initial open mic promoting a techno event, Writer's Bloc has flourished, particularly around our signature **open mic nights**. These nights are definitely our thing. While our journey has seen ventures into other areas like a coffee brand and workshops (both of which, though unsuccessful, were valuable learning experiences), it's the open mic format that has truly resonated. We've expanded and retracted from around South Africa to solely Johannesburg again, like lungs that breathe and rethink ideas, constantly refining what we do best.
The core of Writer's Bloc remains our commitment to creating a **non-judgmental zone**. I feel when people are given the chance to be themselves, they naturally align to a space of non-judgment. It is not in our nature to judge; that is all taught. We create a space that allows for one to express themselves freely. This environment allows attendees to "release all that is them" – a profound emotional and creative unburdening.
Looking ahead, Writer's Bloc is also actively working on a publishing initiative. While administrative processes are being navigated, submissions remain open for anyone eager to share their voice with the world.
The Takeaway: Freedom and Feeling
What do I hope attendees take away from a Writer's Bloc event today? My answer is deeply heartfelt:
I hope that attendees take away motivation. I hope they take away in words. I hope that it inspires them to dance through the night and allow themselves to feel the emotions and know that the world is not meant to be on your shoulders but a place you can be free just to be, and that is okay.
From a long-held dream of a creative hub to the raw honesty of our spoken word nights, Writer's Bloc stands as a testament to the power of uninhibited self-expression. It’s a space where souls can roar their beauty, and where the simple act of being oneself is not just accepted, but celebrated.