Can solitude lead to creative brilliance?

This question has been running around in my mind today after watching a Ted Talk by Susan Cain entitled The Power of Introverts.

In her discussion on how introverts – and their introverted ways – are often looked down upon in society, she said something that hit me like an arrow to the heart:

Solitude is a crucial ingredient to creativity.

She gave all sorts of current examples (Dr. Suess, Steve Wozniak), but she also pointed to ancient religion. Whether you are looking at Christianity, Judaism, or Islam, all have a tradition of people going out into the wilderness and, in their isolation, having major revelations that they then brought back to their people.

There is something about being alone that brings clarity. New ideas. New insights.

And I couldn’t help wonder…is it possible that this pandemic is a creative gift?

Like many people, I am really over quarantine. Even as an introvert who likes to be at home, I miss people. I miss going out. I miss going to do things. I’m tired of sitting at home staring at the same four walls.

What if, however, this time of isolation is designed to inspire revelatory creative breakthrough? What would happen if, instead of bemoaning all the losses of time with people or activities, I chose to relish my time in the “wilderness of solitude”?

What might be waiting for me on the other side?