Six weeks ago I made a grand pronouncement that I was writing a book. I also announced it would be done by Easter. Well, I have confession to make. I am still writing the book, but it isn't done. There are several reasons for it still being in outline form.
First, it harder a write a book than I thought. O the arrogance of a novice writer! I discovered that you need to have a plot mapped out, a least a little bit. Knowing the main point of the story helps too. Second, I didn't have much time when I wasn't completely exhausted. Somehow I forget from year to year how tiring Lent is. During this six weeks, even closest friends have not received phone calls or emails. Once home all I could do was sit and watch mindless TV. The thought of talking to someone else had me hiding under the quilts. I like my friends and miss the interaction, but running on empty makes it difficult to connect. Baking bread as a spiritual practice is so much easier! Third, I am chicken. What if in fact, I did write a book, what would happen? How much energy would it take? Success vs. failure. Success is scary. However, I have not given up. The writing still continues. Now it has more realistic goals. I keep telling myself lots of people write books and so can I. The first step is to get the words on the paper. Big sigh! Off to stare at the computer screen until inspiration strikes! Let's see how long it does take to write a novel.
First, it harder a write a book than I thought. O the arrogance of a novice writer! I discovered that you need to have a plot mapped out, a least a little bit. Knowing the main point of the story helps too. Second, I didn't have much time when I wasn't completely exhausted. Somehow I forget from year to year how tiring Lent is. During this six weeks, even closest friends have not received phone calls or emails. Once home all I could do was sit and watch mindless TV. The thought of talking to someone else had me hiding under the quilts. I like my friends and miss the interaction, but running on empty makes it difficult to connect. Baking bread as a spiritual practice is so much easier! Third, I am chicken. What if in fact, I did write a book, what would happen? How much energy would it take? Success vs. failure. Success is scary. However, I have not given up. The writing still continues. Now it has more realistic goals. I keep telling myself lots of people write books and so can I. The first step is to get the words on the paper. Big sigh! Off to stare at the computer screen until inspiration strikes! Let's see how long it does take to write a novel.
I know you can do it! I'm looking forward to reading my autographed version.
ReplyDeleteThanks, Kenna! Certainly an autographed copy for you!
DeleteDo a web search for "how long does it take to write a book" It will reassure you that you just guessed wrong at how long it would take. As long as you don't quit you won't fail.
ReplyDeleteCarol