weed for creative writing - famous literature marijuana

Great literature written while high on marijuana

One of my favorite things to talk about is how famous writers used drugs to be more productive. The type of drugs they used, the cultural time period, had a very specific and measurable affect on their writing style. You could even show that each major period in the western literary canon came about because of the kinds of drugs writers had access to.

And you can compare and contrast these to find a “style” of writing that matches the benefits of each drug. So let’s attempt this with weed: I’ll try to find famous authors who were familiar with it or even discussed it.


“Experiencing a marijuana high is like discovering a new room in the castle of your mind.

Norman Mailer

Hey there, fellow enthusiasts! Blaze Green here, your go-to guy for all things cannabis. Today, we’re taking a detour from our usual strain reviews and cultivation tips to delve into the world of literature. But not just any literature – we’re talking about masterpieces crafted under the influence of our favorite herb, marijuana.

You see, cannabis has long been a source of inspiration for artists, musicians, and yes, writers. Its mind-expanding properties have led to some of the most profound and innovative works in the literary canon. So, buckle up, light one up, and let’s take a journey through the pages of history.

The Literary High: Famous Authors on Weed

  1. Hunter S. Thompson – “Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas”The king of Gonzo journalism himself, Hunter S. Thompson, was no stranger to substances, and cannabis was among his favorites. His seminal work, “Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas,” is a wild, hallucinatory ride through Sin City, fueled by a cocktail of drugs, including our beloved Mary Jane. Thompson’s frenetic prose and vivid descriptions are a testament to the creative potential of cannabis.
  2. Stephen King – “Cujo” and “The Tommyknockers”Master of horror Stephen King has been open about his past substance use, including marijuana. While King has since sobered up, some of his most chilling works, including “Cujo” and “The Tommyknockers,” were penned during his high times. King’s ability to tap into our deepest fears and craft intricate, suspenseful narratives is truly awe-inspiring.
  3. Carl Sagan – “Mr. X”Renowned astrophysicist and science communicator Carl Sagan was a secret cannabis enthusiast. Under the pseudonym “Mr. X,” Sagan penned an essay extolling the virtues of marijuana, describing how it enhanced his appreciation for art and deepened his introspection. While not a work of fiction, “Mr. X” is a fascinating insight into the mind of one of the greatest scientific thinkers of our time.
  4. Maya Angelou – “I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings”Celebrated poet and memoirist Maya Angelou was another literary giant who enjoyed the occasional toke. In her autobiography, “I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings,” Angelou recounts her first experiences with marijuana, describing the heightened sensory perception and introspection it induced. Angelou’s lyrical prose and powerful storytelling are a testament to the emotional depth that cannabis can unlock.
  5. Victor Hugo: The French author of “Les Misérables” and “The Hunchback of Notre-Dame” was part of a Parisian literary club known as Le Club des Hashischins (The Hashish Club), which experimented with the drug as a means of stimulating creativity.
  6. William Shakespeare: The Bard of Avon himself was not immune to the allure of the green herb. In 2015, South African scientists conducted a chemical analysis on several 17th-century tobacco pipes found in Shakespeare’s garden. They discovered traces of cannabis in some of the pipes. While it’s not definitive proof that Shakespeare partook, it certainly adds an interesting layer to his creative genius. Imagine, “To be or not to be” might have been penned under the influence of cannabis!
  7. Norman Mailer: The Pulitzer Prize-winning author was known to use marijuana and other substances. He believed that drugs could enhance creativity and provide insights into the human condition.
  8. Ken Kesey: The author of “One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest” was a countercultural figure who advocated for the use of psychedelic drugs. He was known to use marijuana among other substances.
weed for creative writing - famous literature marijuana

From a natural stiffness I melted into a grinning tolerance. Walking on the streets became high adventure, eating my mother’s huge dinners an opulent entertainment, and playing with my son was side-cracking hilarity. For the first time, life amused me

Maya Angelou

Remember, while these authors may have used marijuana as part of their creative process, it’s important to note that drug use is not a prerequisite for creativity. Many successful authors and artists have never used drugs and still produce incredible work. Always prioritize your health and well-being above all else.

Is Weed Good for Creative Writing?

The relationship between marijuana and creativity is a topic of ongoing debate. However, many writers and artists have claimed that marijuana has helped them tap into their creative potential. Here’s why:

  1. Enhanced Imagination: Marijuana is known to enhance divergent thinking, a type of thinking that allows many new ideas to be generated. It’s a key component of creativity, and it’s no surprise that many writers claim marijuana helps them think outside the box.
  2. Altered Perception: Marijuana can alter perception, allowing users to see the world in new and unusual ways. This altered state can lead to unique insights and ideas that might not occur in a sober state.
  3. Reduced Inhibitions: Marijuana can help reduce inhibitions and free the mind of self-doubt and second-guessing. This can allow creative ideas to flow more freely and can make the process of writing more enjoyable.
  4. Increased Focus: Some strains of marijuana can enhance focus, making it easier to stay engaged in the creative process and maintain momentum while writing.

However, it’s important to note that the effects of marijuana can vary greatly depending on the strain and the individual. Some people may find that marijuana hinders their creativity or makes it harder for them to focus. It’s also worth noting that while marijuana might help spark ideas, it may not be as helpful when it comes to editing or refining a piece of writing.

Moreover, while marijuana may have potential benefits for creativity, it also has potential risks, including dependency, mental health issues, and legal consequences. It’s always important to use marijuana responsibly and to be aware of the laws in your area.

In conclusion, while marijuana may enhance creativity for some, it’s not a magic solution for writer’s block or a substitute for practice, dedication, and the development of writing skills.


More Reading