Monday, June 25, 2012

Where the writing leads. . .

I've learned so much in the world of writing, and I am eternally grateful to the blogging world for that. I have to confess that I had a most illogical, preconceived notion that I overcame, thanks to other bloggers. The idea was that I shouldn't have to read a book on how to write. If it didn't come naturally, I shouldn't be doing it. Little did I know that it was a skill that needs refining, just like a surgeon must be taught how to operate, and there's nothing wrong with learning to write from a book. In fact, it's a very good way to learn. The books out there are written by proven authors with success stories. I'm getting the words straight from people who I would love to meet and talk to, but probably never will.

One book I had heard of several times was Bird by Bird. I starting reading it, and have had more than one epiphany along the way. First of all, that getting published, while a worthy goal, is not the ultimate guarantee of writer happiness that I believed it to be. It almost felt like a weight being lifted off of me to hear someone say that. I write because I feel I must. It shouldn't matter if it achieves the ultimate success or not. Next, I'm not the only one who writes crappy first drafts. Not everyone is a Hemingway with the first penned words except me. It's okay to start out bad and get better.

One thing I regret is not starting sooner. For so many years I put it off because I was having babies, working, and finishing my degree at the same time. I wouldn't allow myself to do it until I had my degree finished. It's been two and half years now, and my youngest will be in school full time this fall, so I'm finally satisfying my lifelong desire to write.

Whatever comes of it, I won't regret the journey.



32 comments:

  1. Ahhhh. Yes. "I write because I must." It's something only other writers truly understand. You also write because only YOU can share the stories that live inside you.

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  2. Oh Honey... this is SO the right perspective! And this is exactly how I feel--and have felt for the last three years in this writing journey... I'm just going to do my best, and see what comes from it... and regardless of success, I'm just going to enjoy the journey... and it's definitely been a ride so far! :D

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    1. It has been a relief to come to this point. I'm still driven, but more in a relaxed vs. desperate way.

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    2. Yes! I feel the same way! I'm still driven, but I'm more clear-headed about it, and not as desperate... that's a great way to describe it. :D

      And I wanted to say thanks also for signing up for the "What If?" Blogfest... that'll be SO FUN! <3 <3 <3

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    3. I'll be looking forward to it! I was already thinking of something today :)

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  3. Hi, Honey! I'm glad you came to my blog because it lead me to your wonderful blog.

    Writing is all about the journey, isn't it? I'm glad you're approaching a time in your life where it will be easier for you to focus on your passion.

    New follower!

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    1. Thanks for your positive comments and for joining my blog!

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  4. I love this! Venturing into the writing world can be scary. It is for me at times. I'm excited to read books about writing though. I totally want to perfect the craft! I'm glad you shared this today. We all need to remember this! :)

    Oh! And thanks for joining our blogfest! I'm excited to get to know you now!

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    1. Soo true! It is a little scary, and I'm excited about the blogfest too. Thanks for stopping by and joining by blog :)

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  5. Ditto what Morgan said. :)

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  6. Beautiful post! It is a wonderful journey, no matter where you end up.

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  7. Write to your heart's content. It will be wonderful no matter what path you take.

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  8. I heard Anne Lamott speak a couple of years ago and I loved her book, too. Some great writing wisdom in those pages.

    Lovely post, Honey.

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    1. Thank you for the compliment! I have really been enjoying her book and the insight- lucky you to have heard her in person.

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  9. I read a Lammott article on S****y First Drafts and I felt the same way after reading it - it is sometimes hard to imagine that good literature started with a draft. 'The Writing Book' by Kate Granville has been with me for a while - it motivates you to write in an open ended way with lots of improvisation exercises rather than 'This is how you write fiction.' Thanks for sharing your experience. Cheers

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    1. That was quite a revelation for me too! I'll have to check out the book you mentioned- sounds very helpful.

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  10. Great post. Write because it is a part of who you are and enjoy the ride. (:

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  11. Great attitude!
    I'm coming over from Alex's IWSG, by the way. Nice to meet you. :)

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    1. Nice to meet you too! I know I've seen you around the blogger world so thanks for stopping by!

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  12. This is a great post! I love writing because writing helps me express my feelings. I enjoy going through your blog!

    www.modernworld4.blogspot.com

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  13. yeah i think the first draft is always utter crap its not about the writing its about the rewriting!

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  14. New follower here, via Marcy and Dianne. Nice to meet you!

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    1. Thank you for joining my blog. I've been following yours for awhile already. Your critiques of queries are so insightful. The thoughts you posted on my first page at Marcy's blog meant A LOT coming from you. It made my day. Thanks!

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  15. But you're writing now and you have all that experience to pull from.

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  16. The joy is in the journey, as they say. :)

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  17. Absolutely. I started just now taking writing seriously (well back in November). I waited until I had kids too. It's worth it :)

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