Now that I'm working on a new project, I find myself reflecting on the previous months as I birthed book #1, and must admit, the second time around seems a whole lot easier. Just as in raising children, perhaps it's because I know what's around the corner.
The advantage I have with book #2 is that I'm aware of the highs and lows where the ideas come and go quickly. As a result, I've placed a writing tablet and pencil in every room of my home. And then there's the inevitable cycle of self-doubt. For some odd reason, I'd be willing to bet my signing advance check that good ole Mr. Self-Doubt will do his best to whisper over my left shoulder, in hopes of convincing me to throw in the towel.
Some may ask, "Is it worth it?" I suppose the "it" in this question refers to the amount of time and energy a writer puts into each project.
My response to this question is, "Do I have a choice?" Those of you who write understand exactly what I'm talking about. There is no choice! Either you allow your imagination to roam freely, or chain it down and suffer through the consequences. I choose to go where my thoughts allow me and brace myself for the ride!
You see, this newfound gift/talent/curse (take your pick), is something I have not forced upon myself. I believe it's always been inside, but I've never gone out on a limb and tapped into it. Now that I have, I hope to never let go. And I assure you, when you're a stay-at-home mom to four children under the age of ten, you reach out and grab hold to anything that keeps you emotionally and physically charged.
So, YES! Writing YA fiction is totally, most undeniably worth it! Even when I'm old and gray, I hope to have a writing tablet and pencil hidden in every room of my home.
Have a great Tuesday, everyone! Tory
*The compositions herein are not to be copied, reproduced, printed, published, posted, displayed, incorporated, stored in or scanned into a retrieval system or database, transmitted, broadcast, bartered or sold, in whole or in part without the prior express written permissions of the sole author Tory Minus. Unauthorized duplication is strictly prohibited and is an infringement of National and International Copyright Laws.
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Hi Tory,
ReplyDeleteThank's for your comment on our blog, and thanks for the invitation to come and see this post. I agree with you 100%. Writing has a lot of highs and lows, but so does anything else. I can't think of too many other things that are this much fun and can be done alone and in pajamas. (Note the caveats, please!) And unlike many other jobs, writing can also happen at lacrosse and football practices, on car rides, and (in a pinch) at truly dull movies on a Blackberry.
The doubts are the worst of writing. Through all of them, you just have to believe that every two words you write and every word you delete are making you a better, more powerful writer. As a YA writer, you also have the opportunity to help others discover more powerful people inside themselves. What an amazing job!
Gak, I did it again. Forgot to sign the darn thing. This was Martina. Not Marissa. Just so you know which messenger to shoot. :-D
ReplyDeleteTory, your post is a breath of fresh air. Yes, it's tricky when self-doubt looks over your left shoulder, but you ARE a writer and writers must write. Right? I haven't been blogging very long, but it's so nice to be among this group of people where we really "get" each other. What comfort! Thanks for stopping by today.
ReplyDeleteMartina, I look forward to following you and Marissa at AiCP. From what I read tonight, your blog is one I will keep on my radar.
ReplyDeleteAnd Julie...when our books hit the bestseller lists, you and I are going to have to meet (maybe even before then, hmmm...)! I agree, this journey is tough, but it sure is a lot easier knowing there are writers like you out there struggling/daydreaming about the same issues that I do each day.:-)
Deciding to write is a hard and brave thing. I ignored the urge for years, feeling that I wasn't worthy. One day it just clicked and I had to do it. I'm not published yet and it's not easy, but I love it. And it's true, when you've done it once, you have a better idea what to expect. Good luck with your new WIP.
ReplyDeleteTheresa - I was amazed at how many writers came out of the closet once I had with my first novel. We live in such a small community that I believe people are afraid of what others may say or think. I'm very blessed to have such supportive friends and family members. Thanks for stopping by Head in the Clouds and please come back soon!
ReplyDeleteHey Tory, I agree with everything in your post. I think even published authors still deal with self-doubt. But we need to grab hold of that doubt and use it as a springboard to sharpen our skills and take on bigger challenges. Plus it helps to have a great reading partner who can offer encouragement when you're feeling down about yourself.
ReplyDeleteJulie
www.julieloden.webs.com
Agreed! When asked why do I write the logical answer is "Because I have to!" ;) It's something inside of you. Good luck on your new project. The more you do it, the easier will flow.
ReplyDeleteAnd thanks so much for the comment you left on my blog. It really meant a lot to me. :)
Hey Tory,
ReplyDeleteI think that sometimes, the doubt is what makes us better writers. Often, the writers without staying power are the ones who move full steam ahead without much retrospection or reflection on the process.
By the way, I notice that you follow Cynsations. There is an interview on there with an editor I worked with on a children's book (I shelved it to go back to YA) that is interesting. Her name is Emma Walton Hamilton and she was amazing - you might want to check it out;-)