I think the best way to start writing something is to make up a lie. If you can't or just don't want to write about something you feel or know or see, then write up a lie. It works!

On the other hand, when you're looking for inspiration, find something that plays on your emotions or makes you think. I'm always more eloquent after reading a good book, and more emotional after listening to something instrumental. Using music you listen to often might not cut it, unless you listen with your whole body....y'know, focus all of your attention on every beat, every instrument, every pause. I like instrumental because it doesn't confuse the mind with lyrics, you can explore your emotions in more directions than where the words are pointing you. I listen to soundtracks mostly for this...Le Violon Rouge, Amelie, Red Dragon...there are many wonderful soundtracks out there...Many from the artsy fartsy movies we all know and love, some by big hollywood productions too, look at Danny Elfman, he works with Tim Burton a lot of the time and his music makes me feel strong emotions when I listen to it.

Yeah, that's the best I can come up with at the moment