So, I really wasn't in any kind of trance when I was writing last time. In fact, I don't think I ever go into any kind of transcendental state when I am writing. The only change I feel as a writer from when I am not writing is that I now am more aware of what I am thinking and less able to make sense of the world.

What I mean by this is that when I am just thinking, I can begin to put things together, to synthesize and combine. But when I write, I don't seem to have that luxury. Besides, now I have to go put out the trash...