Meaning: The quote by Helen Jackson, also known by her pen name of "H.H." or her married name of Helen Hunt Jackson, provides insight into the experience of being in a state of flow while writing. Jackson was an American poet and writer who lived in the 19th century and is best known for her novel "Ramona," which shed light on the mistreatment of Native Americans in the United States. In this quote, she expresses the feeling of being so engrossed in the act of writing that the words seem to flow effortlessly and abundantly from her mind onto the page.

When Jackson says, "As soon as I began, it seemed impossible to write fast enough," she captures the essence of the creative process for many writers. The feeling of being in a state of flow, where the words pour out almost faster than they can be written down, is a common experience among those who are passionate about writing. This state of intense concentration and productivity is often described as a deeply satisfying and even transcendent experience, where the boundaries between the self and the act of creation seem to dissolve.

Jackson's description of writing "faster than I would write a letter" highlights the intensity of her creative output. The comparison to writing a letter, a task that typically requires careful thought and consideration, emphasizes the contrast between the deliberate act of communication and the spontaneous outpouring of ideas and words that occurs during the act of creative writing. The quote suggests that Jackson's writing process was characterized by a sense of urgency and an almost compulsive need to capture her thoughts and ideas as they emerged.

The mention of writing "two thousand to three thousand words in a morning" provides a tangible measure of the prolific nature of Jackson's writing during these periods of intense creativity. This level of output is impressive by any standard and speaks to the depth of her engagement with her creative work. It also reflects the discipline and dedication required to sustain such a high level of productivity, as well as the profound sense of fulfillment and purpose that often accompanies the act of creation.

The phrase "and I cannot help it" captures the feeling of being swept up in the creative process, almost as if the act of writing is happening through Jackson rather than by her deliberate effort. This sentiment echoes the experiences of many writers who describe feeling as though their best work comes through them rather than from them, as if they are conduits for something larger than themselves.

In conclusion, Helen Jackson's quote provides a vivid glimpse into the intense, immersive, and deeply rewarding experience of being in a state of creative flow. Her words capture the sense of urgency, abundance, and almost involuntary nature of the creative process, shedding light on the profound connection between the writer and their work. This quote serves as a powerful reminder of the transcendent power of creative expression and the deeply personal, yet often inexplicable, nature of the creative process.