Do you ever get the post-project blues? I’m only now starting to see the pattern. It begins with the euphoric rush of typing the words “The End.” I float for several days, elated by a sort of nostalgia born of what felt so right about the finished project. The high often opens the idea spigot, releasing the next project’s story flow.
Then the feedback starts to trickle in. With it comes the realization that there is more work to be done, and suddenly the flow feels tainted. Even though I know this will be the case beforehand, there’s nothing quite like hearing specifics from readers to cause the revision hammer and chisel to thump down on your desk, jarring the euphoria of skilled creation back to the cold reality of a still-misshapen chunk of granite. This is a time when I’m feeling caught between my excitement for book two in the series and the lure to begin fussing with book one again. I know I should wait until I’ve collected all of the feedback, then let it ferment and distill into a unified spirit before diving back in. The crossfire has left me feeling immobilized and melancholy.
Stasis Interruptus: As of the writing of this post, I am resolved. Today I’ve grown weary of the writerly haze in which I’ve allowed myself to wallow. I knew I needed a jolt, to get my mind off of critiques of my work—my own as well as those of others. I needed refocusing, a positive spin on my situation. I understand that I am lucky and blessed, but I wanted to make that understanding more tangible. So I decided to take a hard look at what seemed to be troublesome issues, then challenge myself to flip my perspective of them. In other words, turn my so-called troubles into blessings. I share them here in the hope that you might be inspired to challenge yourself, too.
Issue #1 – Finding the aforementioned manuscript still needs work. Quite a bit of it.
Flipside Blessing – I have a wonderful group of writers who are willing to read and critique my work. They are gracious enough to use their valuable time and experience to help me. Talk about a blessing! To top it off, several have already expressed their belief in the project’s potential. How could I ask for a better post-project circumstance?
Issue #2 – I feel like a slow writer, and each rewrite of a manuscript takes so long.
Flipside Blessing – I have it! The time, I mean. I worked hard to get here, but I’m at a point in my life where I can devote a great deal of my time to something I truly love to do—write! I am not under a deadline, and—knock on wood—I’m healthy. I am truly blessed to be able to devote myself to improving my manuscripts, to make them worthy of their potential without feeling rushed.
Issue #3 – I still have two more books to write to complete this story. And then I still have my original trilogy to rewrite. There’s so much to be done!
Flipside Blessing – There’s so much to be done! I am blessed to have a story I believe in already on the page. And I have a finished trilogy that I believe in, and I know there are others who believe in it, too. The two stories are closely interrelated, and my efforts on the current project will only make the originating story better. They simply need revision and proper format. Best case scenario: I’ll soon have six books ready for market. Worst case: I’ll have written and revised six books—that’s a ton of career experience, even if the stories are never widely read.
Issue #4 – I’m anxious to move on! About a year ago, I was kissed by the muse. I had an epiphany about the story that comes chronologically after my first trilogy. Will I never get to work on that?
Flipside Blessing – I can’t wait to tell the story of my characters’ children! And I already have about ten pages of handwritten notes, including sources of research. Unless I lose my marbles before I get to it (knocking on wood again), the ideas aren’t going anywhere. The story will be there when I’m ready to move on. Plus, I already know what I want to do next. And I’m pretty sure I’ll remain passionate about it. I’m looking to the future with optimism and excitement. That can only be a good thing.
Issue #5 – I’ve been at this so long, ten years and I’m still unpublished.
Flipside Blessing – I haven’t quit! I’ve persevered, and I can continue to do so. I’ve been at it so long, that I finally gained enough confidence to reach out in forums like WU, where I was once but a lowly lurker, too insecure to even publish a comment. And now here I am, writing an essay for you. I’ve been to conferences where I’ve shaken hands with wonderful writers and mentors, and been inspired by seeing them teach and share. I’ve come so far, learned so much. And I know there so much more to learn. Experience has demonstrated that I can apply new lessons. I’ve been at this long enough to see that there is no substitute for experience. I trust that I will continue to improve. Which sort of resembles having faith in myself, now that I think about it. Better still is having met so many wonderful people. People I am honored to call colleagues and mentors, people I am delighted to know as friends. And a few I can even consider “old friends.” There are few gifts in life that can compare to old friends.
Tangible Abundance/ Gratitude and Blessings:
“Gratitude can transform common days into thanksgivings, turn routine jobs into joy, and change ordinary opportunities into blessings.”~ William Arthur Ward
I paused during the writing of this post, just before this last segment, and went on a long walk on a nearby beach. Contemplating my situation in the brisk breeze, with columns of sunshine ethereally filtered through billowing clouds and reflecting off the sparkling blue Lake Michigan waves —my heart was filled to brimming. Even if it hadn’t started to become apparent yet (and it had), here was an abundance of tangible evidence of my great fortune. I feel as if I’m vibrating with the enthusiasm gained as I type this final section. I have characters and stories I believe are worthy of my efforts. I have a beautiful spot to write, set in an place that inspires me every day. I have friends who help and inspire and encourage me. I have a beautiful and supportive wife who believes in me. This otherwise ordinary day of writing has urgently reminded me how grateful I am. And that is a blessing, indeed.
Writing this post, and taking a good look at my list above has been just the jolt I needed. I can sincerely report a successful flip of my perspective, a turnaround of my mood and outlook. One truth I have found to be unfailing is that I am inspired and heartened by my fellow writers.
So I hereby challenge you. Regardless of whether you’re a moody curmudgeon like me, I’m willing to bet you have a troublesome writerly issue or two occasionally nagging at the back of your brain. Can you find their flipside blessings? Or perhaps a reason to be grateful? If so, please share in the comments. Thank you!
About Vaughn Roycroft
In the sixth grade, Vaughn’s teacher gave him a copy of The Hobbit, sparking a lifelong passion for reading and history. After college, life intervened, and Vaughn spent twenty years building a successful business. During those years, he and his wife built a getaway cottage near their favorite shoreline, in a fashion that would make the elves of Rivendell proud. After many milestone achievements, and with the mantra ‘life’s too short,’ they left their hectic lives in the business world, moved to their little cottage, and Vaughn finally returned to writing. Now he spends his days polishing his epic fantasy trilogy.
Vaughn,
I came to comment on Sarah’s article from yesterday (not too swift of me, but the blessing was that I got to read all the other comments and responses) and saw a new essay from you. Double blessing!
You’ve touched on attitude and perception today…how we view where we are in our careers. We can get down on ourselves (I mean, look at me, I’ve not written anything substantial and feel like a poser half the time when I’m amongst the literati), or we can say, “I’m exactly where I need to be right now, hearing the things I need to hear, learning the things I need to know.”
I recently participated in a short story competition and didn’t make the finals. Hmpf. But you know what? I didn’t get down on myself, although, like any writer, feel like the judges made a HUGE MISTAKE. ;) Just joking. No, I took their feedback (spot-on, btw) and grew from it.
There have been times that none of this has seemed like it’s going to pan out. Life has been throwing wrench after wrench into the cogs of my writerly machine, but I look at it as growth — and seriously, more fodder for this and future books.
Crisis or opportunity? It’s how we look at it. I’m lucky to be surrounded by people like yourself who see the hurdles as opportunities for continued growth. And when I have wallowed in my personal crises enough (as I’ve recently been doing), I look up to your excellent example, pick myself up, and tarry on.
Peace, brother. Or bro. Or breaux.
You have several important points here, Mike. It’s wonderful to think of our circumstance as “being where we’re supposed to be.” We have only our own guts to trust on this, but I feel the truth of it myself. And your point about having others to guide and inspire and encourage us – it’s priceless, isn’t it?
I prefer not to think of it as tarrying. How about parrying self-doubt and harrying inertia? Parry and harry on, Mike. Peace, bro!
You know, I don’t know why I wrote “tarry!” I know it means to wait. I wanted to write (and thought I wrote) “carry” on. My only explanation is that I had the cd, Amazing Grace: A Country Salute to Gospel, playing in the background and In the Garden by Billy Dean and Susan Ashton is on it. That song had to have been playing or have just played or was still filtering through my subconscious somewhere!
Had to clear that up because my grace period to edit had expired! Ha! :D
“Discipline is the refining fire by which talent becomes ability.” – Roy L. Smith
I think when we were at the Unconference I might have shown you the slip with this quote that I carry in my wallet. I found it in a fortune cookie one day when I took a lunch break, after a morning of wrestling with my writing.
You are a true example of the truth of this quote, V. I know for a fact. I’ve read your wonderful yarns (you’re a gifted yarn spinner) and witnessed your evolution as you honed your talent with the discipline of craft. Your new manuscript is the proof. Insight. It’s one of the real benefits of the flip, isn’t it?
Once again, I’m glad I got up early and caught a post on WU. Yours.
B – you’re not just a stalwart example of discipline, but a tower of encouragement. You are the epitome of supportive friendship. No one has made me feel more like a real writer over the years, and that is a special gift. I speak of gratitude for blessings in this post, and you are a special blessing. Thank you! I can’t wait to return the favor. Glad you got up early.
I’m still in the final-polish-before-beta-reader stage, but I can already feel the post-project blues coming on. Yesterday I read over a few chapters early in the book, chapters I know are ready and had been universally liked by early readers, and started feeling the urge to throw it all out the window.
I’ve been there before and know it’s not about the writing, its about me, and it basically comes down to fear. Fear that it still won’t be right after all this time and energy. Fear of disappointing family members who all have their own ideas about what should and should not be included in the novel. Fear that I’ll end up “thisclose” to getting an agent again, but never get The Call. Fear of failure.
Then, of course, there is perhaps my biggest fear, and its one I am doing my damnedest to shake. What if I succeed this time? How will my life change and how will this affect my children? How will I deal with the stress of marketing one book and writing another at the same time? How will I navigate around the pitfalls of the publishing world? What if my future editor and I don’t have the same vision?
It’s silly, I know, because if I am lucky enough to get that agent, to get that publishing contract, I will learn to adapt to my new reality. My husband would be thrilled. My kids would be proud. I have a whole tribe of writer friends, many of whom have run that gauntlet and survived. They are never more than a call or text away, and they believe in me.
Just as I believe in you, Vaughn. I’ve read the manuscript you refer to here, and just want to go on public record to say that even though its a genre I don’t normally read, it kept me engrossed. All those revisions and rewrites you’ve done have paid off. You have talent. You have a solid story. You have persistence and aren’t afraid of hard work. That sounds like a recipe for success to me.
Old friends are indeed a gift. I certainly consider you one of mine.
Thanks for mentioning the fear – both of failure and success, Kim. Those fears certainly loom over all of this. It’s funny, but one of my goals for this rewrite of the prequel was to have it bring me back around to the original trilogy with a new outlook and renewed enthusiasm. And I’m right on course! I’ve been overly focused on the wrong things. Big picture-wise, we’re right on schedule, or as Mike put it, right where we’re supposed to be. Having read the work you’re revising, I can attest to the fact that it was already a wonderful book. But it’s the kind of project that will be so special due to your additional efforts. And who wouldn’t want their project to be special?
I appreciate your honesty here, and I can only imagine the special challenges of writing about not just a historical figure, but a family member. But more than any of that, I appreciate you dedication and hard work, and your friendship. I’m already proud of you. You are about to launch, and I can’t wait to watch you fly.
*Kim swipes away tears*
See, this is why we’re old friends. You said exactly what I needed to hear. You also gave me a great idea for my debut WU post as a regular contributor. ;-)
I love what you have written. This is the key to a happy life, not just writing. Being able to be aware of what we are feeling and then flip whatever happens to us the other way, into feeling grateful and blessed. I talked with someone recently about how I would really like to finish my 2nd book as I am a busy Process Psychologist as well as having a doggy holiday business and a million other things I do. The answer was surprising, yet so simple. It was, if you want to finish your book, Sherry, just start writing! Your post has also made me realize again, how lucky I am, that I have a fulfilling life where I do what I love in my work, my writing and caring for gorgeous dogs. Thank you.
We just need to step back sometimes to see it, don’t we, Sherry? There’s nothing quite like being around dogs to make us appreciate how good we have it. They certainly appreciate life in the moment. I think you’ve given me the idea for my next post. Best to you as you endeavor to “just write”!
You are the nicest curmudgeon I have ever not-met. And I loved this post.
I have had SO many blessings. The first that comes to mind happened when my first agent left agenting. She was wonderful, and I was heartbroken and orphaned. But my new agent is an even better fit. She is so passionate about my work, and I trust her immensely. Plus, she’s an ass-kicker. My books are in her very good hands.
I, like you, have been at this for many, many years and my first two books haven’t sold yet. But! The rejections I have gotten from editors have been amazing, encouraging and hopeful. I realize now that when I do get a book published, my skin will be thick enough to weather the critiques, the critics, the negative Amazon reviews, the ho-hum response from people I know.
AND, I feel the exact same way about WU. Had I gotten a book published right away, I would not have had the time to hang out with you all. That is the biggest blessing of all!
I have also learned to see that the accomplishment of writing an entire novel is what mattes most. I used to want to believe that was true. Now I actually believe it. ;)
You’ve got some marvelous examples of flipped perspective, Sarah. And you’ve gone and made me grateful for some of your setbacks. If they hadn’t occurred, we would’ve missed out on all of these magical, funny, uplifting essays you’ve written for WU. Seriously, that would’ve been a setback for all of us who look forward to reading you each month (and I know there are many of us!). Talk about gratitude!
Abundant blessings to you, Sarah! Can’t wait to be the opposite of ho-hum when I devour your books! This, I know, will happen some day soon.
I absolutely love this post. I’ve been trying to do this, flipping perspectives and focusing on positives, in my everyday life. I should try it with my writing as well! It can be so hard to adjust one’s own perception of events, or to not fall into old habits and ways of thinking. This is a great example of the wisdom that comes when passion and persistence meet. You’re an inspiration, Vaughn!
Now here’s an example of a blessed writer, folks. Not only are you uber-creative, talented and dedicated, Nicole. You have a gorgeous family, and truly live in God’s country – one of my favorite regions on earth. I’m so excited for you. Thanks for being one of the blessings in my writing life!
Vaughn-
You took that picture? That’s near where you live? Huh. I was all set to feel bad for you, in step with your post-project blues, but forget it. Talk about abundance.
Then again I have my own serene places, the coffee bars of Brooklyn. Stopped in one this morning on a walk with my wife and dog down to the East River waterfront. I guess I can’t complain.
Which is your point. What is there to complain about? You and I, we write. In America. As someone once said, that means we enjoy more freedom than anyone in the world.
So what do we do with that freedom? Feel lucky, know we’re grateful, pray our thanks, sure all of that. But for our great blessings we also have high responsibility, to tell powerful stories with powerful points. To say something we all need to hear.
Like you did this morning. Thanks, pal. And BTW, a ten year break in period is par for the course. You’re right on schedule.
Hi Don, You’ve put a special emphasis on the blessing of walking our versions of this beautiful world – to do so with the ones we love. Takes it to another level, doesn’t it?
Speaking of taking it to another level, here’s a bit of gratitude heading your way: I’m grateful not just for all of the great craft advice and mentoring you offer your fellow writers, but for making me recognize that there is no real rush. You’ve helped me to see that it’s about more than making a manuscript squeaky-clean and ready for submission. It’s about making it as moving as it can be for readers. That’s the kind of impact that’s worth patiently striving for. So thanks.
Vaughn,
Thanks for your honesty this morning. I know that feeling you described at the top of your post. Euphoria…then the plummet when reality sets in. When the feedback comes and your head starts to reel. But what you describe afterwards is so so important. That you turn it around and see the gift. The urge to write, the passion to tell this story well, the realization that it’s all good. I too have been working for 10 years on a series. I have time now to focus. Things are moving along. Will my health hold? My mind? If I dwell on those questions, I’ll get heavy. But if I remember that I’m so damn lucky to have this desire, this story, these hours to work, then I become very light.
To see feedback as a gift is important. To feel grateful to those who give us their time and honest reflection is a marvel. Thanks for the reminder. If your post today is any indication of the passion you put into your books, sign me up!
How perfect to describe it as heaviness versus lightness, Susan. I’m so glad to find that my realization is helpful to another member of the ten-years-on-a-series club. More gratitude. We are abundantly blessed. Thanks for enhancing the message!
Great post, old friend. : )
I’m so glad I started writing fiction when I was out of my twenties. Then, it would have been life or death, all-consuming. Now, as much as I love writing, I can put it in perspective and see that the ups and downs aren’t as important as a happy and healthy family and life. (And on days when family members aren’t that happy, writing helps put that into perspective, too.)
Great point about finding our way here post-twenty-something, Liz. Yes, it would’ve consumed too much of me, as well. Another of Mike’s “it’s where (and when) we’re meant to be” realizations.
Isn’t it cool that we’re old friends now? Seems appropriate, as I feel like I’ve known you since I was twenty-something (but you would’ve been just a child then ;-). Thanks for sharing your perspective, old friend!
Vaughn, you delivered exactly what I needed today. Like Kim, I’m in the polish-before-another round of Beta Readers stage, and this week my energy shifted to slog mode. I guess it’s not surprising after 13 years. For a long time I was embarrassed by my slow learning curve. Especially when other writers churn out books faster than I can write a sentence.
I was moaning a bit about this with my son and he said, “So what? What you’ve learned through perseverance and patience is part of who you are as a writer now. You have changed and transformed the same as your protagonist and that’s what life is about.”
Don’t you love how our children lead us forward!
Yes, I’m currently slug like, but I’m also proud of myself for not giving up on a story I believe is important. I’ve been true to myself, and a loyal supporter of my protagonist as she has struggled to break free from her own demons. We are both better off as a result.
I don’t know what the future holds, more rejections I’m sure, but I will never regret my commitment and the joy I’ve found in my transformative journey while connecting with other writers (especially through WU). The support I’ve experienced among writers heals and revives my spirit—today’s post is proof!
Thanks for sharing. Keep On and you will be Kept UP!
What a wise son you’ve raised, Jocosa! I’ve fallen into that trap, of comparing what I’m doing to others. It’s something that definitely requires a flipped perspective!
I’m glad you mention loyalty to your characters. For me, that kind of loyalty, that faith in their worthiness, has been such a sustaining force. And now I’ve got another thing to be grateful for. Here’s to to our characters and to loyalty. Thank *you* for sharing. Your comment is a great addition to the conversation.
I’ve been teaching gratitude this month as part of my Mindfulness groups at school. It’s amazing how the reminder to think of my own blessings helps to calm fears and firm up resolve with much in my life. Right now, with moving, I haven’t been thinking at all about my writing, but I hear what you’re saying about how a change in perspective can make all the world of difference.
Congratulations on finishing the manuscript!
There’s an astute observation, Lara: gratitude as the antidote to fear. It’s spot on! I miss you, so it’s great of you to stop by. :-) Thanks! Wishing you the best with the move! Then, it’s back to writing (I insist! ;-).
Vaughn, my friend, you are one lucky dude. Not just for the reasons you list – all good reasons – but because you have the power to control your emotions, to set the direction of your travels, to take destiny by the balls and say “Not today, today I’m holding my head high.”
LOVE the positive vibe! Go gettem tiger!
Hugs
Dee Willson
Author of A Keeper’s Truth and GOT
I absolutely adore this comment. And not just because you call me tiger. Does it get any better than “to take destiny by the balls”? Not today, it doesn’t! :-)
Thanks for contributing to the positive vibe, Dee! You too – head high! Hugs!
Me too, on that quote Denise. I’m pinning that above my writing space. “Take destiny by the balls.” Come to think of it Vaughn, that sounds like the philosophy of a certain main character of yours…:)
You’re so right, B – that is Vahldan’s philosophy in a… er, nutshell. (Sorry.)
Vaughn, what a wonderful, spot-on post! (And great comments, as usual, from the WU community.) Issue #5 especially resonates for me, as I’ve been working on fiction for about ten years as well, admittedly not with the same degree of intensity every year, but as you so rightly remind us, the “not-writing time” is not wasted if I’ve been learning about craft and the process, finding a community of writers to learn from, and working to incorporate what I’m learning into what I’m writing. I’m where I need to be, and on days when I’m less than okay with that, I have posts like yours to give me a wake up call! Thank you. And keep going on those books — I’m eager to read them!
Thanks, Kate, for reinforcing that what we bring to the page is the sum of our experiences, and particularly those lived along the way of our writerly path. It’s exponential, isn’t it? – how experience shows us what is useful, and that recognition leads to further enlightenment.
I’m glad to have provided the wake-up call today. Lord knows this community has provided such calls for me often enough. Thanks for your kind words, Kate! They’re very encouraging!
What? You don’t love drama??
Nah. I get enough of that from Outlander, lass. ;-)
Vaughn, if you look up “moody curmudgeon” in the dictionary, my photo is way bigger than yours. (See how competitive I am?) But this mood cur was physically moved by your post—I felt such a tingle of goodness and genuineness coming out it.
It reminded me of that great Annie Dillard quote, “How we spend our days is how we spend our lives.” Spend them in grousing (as I find myself too often doing) and you have a habitually sour life. But gratitude—aye, that’s the sweet stuff. Thanks for the hand up today.
I’m grateful to you, for this comment, Tom. But I often find myself grateful *for* you. Your essays and comments always brighten my day. Maybe it’s our curmudgeony similarity that draws me to you, but I doubt it. You’re actually full of humor and light, and I appreciate you. (Man, this doesn’t sound at all moody, does it? Drat, I’ll never get that bigger picture with this type of truthful sweet stuff.)
Thanks for being a part of my writerly tribe, Tom!
One of my re-occurring issues is that I have dyslexia.
How can someone with problems with language–both spoken and written–be a writer? I’ve asked myself over and over again.
Why?
It helps keep me in my comfortable nest. I have a reason not to grow and stretch. And we all know, it’s scary to grow and stretch.
Flip side
I’m not alone. There are successful authors with dyslexia–Jules Verne, F. Scott Fitzgerald, Agatha Christie, John Irving and…
If they can contribute to the wealth of literary. I can too.
My mind may be different than many, but it has gifted me with endless creativity.
Thank you for this article, Vaughn. It has inspired me to write a blog pot. I will publish this post on my blog in July.
Thank you for inspiring and enheartening me, Vaughn.
Leanne, Thanks for an informative addition to the conversation. You are an inspiration! Continue to stretch and grow. I’m looking forward to that post! Let me know when it goes live? Thanks again!
Vaughn, I endorse the comments others have made about this thoughtful post. Your perseverance and dedication to the craft set the bar for all writers to follow. It is too bad some writers rush to publish their work online. Having met you at the Un-Conference and communicated online with you, I know you are a person who cares deeply about the craft. If I can be of assistance to you in your journey to publication, please let me know.
Hey Chris – Shoot, you’re making me blush over here. But I’m glad to had the chance to meet you and get to know you. Because of it, I’m certain you share my deep caring. Thanks so much, and back at you – anything I can do to be of service, my friend. Thanks for weighing in!
Hello Vaughn and WU community,
I am new to this community, and I came across this post today. Thank you, Vaughn, for expressing much of what has been churning around in my head. I also am at a point in my life where I can pursue my love of writing unfettered by such mundane concerns as a day job!
Situation: Newly retired and a bit scared
Flipside Blessing: Newly retired and free to explore where I’m going with my writing, with enough time to devote to it.
After reading your post, I will no longer feel like a poser when I say that I’m a writing a novel. I will no longer feel inadequate because I’ve never produced anything (to date) that I feel is worthy of public exposure let alone publication. Thank you for your thoughts.
Leah
Well, you’ve certainly taken a great step forward, Leah. Owning your status as an aspiring writer is something that took me a long time. You certainly are no poser. We have been given the gift of time, not to say we didn’t earn it. Now it’s on us to not let that gift go to waste. Sounds like you’ve already got a great handle on it. Keep it up!
Thanks for your honesty and courage. And please come again. And keep commenting. I’ve found that WU fosters aspirants like us in a gentle but insistent way.
I’m soaking up all the positive energy in this post and in the comments, and feeling tremendously grateful for all the good vibes today, thank you!
I’ve been experiencing the mid-drafting blues, feeling bogged down a bit and impatient with how long it’s taking to work out the story and the characters. When I get focused and working, I’m not impatient, I’m excited to see my protagonist getting easier to hear and see, becoming more real and less sketchy. At those moments I know the process is unfolding, slow and steady. I also know there will be lots of revision, but first things first.
On any given day, I look at what I got done–and how many other parts of my life are competing for the time and attention–and I think “not enough.” So the flipside blessing: it’s enough for TODAY, come back and do the next bit tomorrow. I’m tremendously fortunate to have a tomorrow (knock wood). Really, this comes back to Mike’s comment about being where we need to be, hearing what we need to hear, learning what we need to learn. :-)
Oh how I know the mid-draft blues, too, Alisha. Thanks for sharing your flipped perspective on recognizing progress, even when it’s incremental. We all have to take it step-by-step, day-by-day. Even Stephen King can only crank out so much in a day, right? Sending you patience vibes across the big lake today! Thanks again for enhancing the conversation with a great example!
What a great post, Vaughn. I can completely relate…to the blessings to be found in each instance of frustration. I’m at 8 years, with a trail of 3 novels and one novella behind me, none of which are worthy of the spotlight, but all of which taught me so much. Everything that I bring to the keyboard and the brain space where my story lives, I’ve only gained from doing, doing, and doing.
To succeed, you need to be willing to fail, because in failure there are lessons. Determination is the backbone of discipline, passion is its heart. You have both, my friend, it’s clear in how you speak about your writing. Sure it’s been ten years, but just think of how much amazing stuff is going to be packed in the novel you finally publish–your readers will *feel* the wisdom and mastery behind the story they dive into.
One great up for me is the opportunity to be part of this great community here. The writing journey is progressive, but coming here has, for one year now, provided me with a great reference to know that, no matter where I’m at, I’m always moving forward.
I can tell you’re building something special, John. You are wise to know how much is gained by doing. Your work ethic and patience absolutely will pay dividends.
Speaking of your finding your way to WU, you’re another one that I am grateful to have in our community. Your comments are always insightful and thoughtful. You dig deep to enhance the conversation that takes place here, as you have today. It’s appreciated. Here’s to our shared determination and passion, my friend!
Thank you so much for this post, Vaughn! I really needed it today. You’re always such an inspiration and, having read your work, believe that you are closer to achieving your dreams than you can imagine. I would say that Ten years isn’t unusual. It took me twelve to break in and I didn’t have near the body and depth of work you have. You can do this!
I especially suffer from Issue #2 – I don’t just feel like a slow writer, I am slow. My YA author friends have books coming out left and right, they seem to crank out thousands of words per day while raising families and working full time jobs. Then there’s me, plodding through the first draft, and now, not being on deadline for the first time in three years, I’m even slower. In the last few months I’ve come to (mostly) accept this as part of who I am as a writer. It’s my process, and I should embrace it. Because, on the flipside, my first draft tends to be a lot cleaner. Taking my time means I have less revisions. I build the story organically, I take the time to deepen the world building and characters as I go along. Also, like you, I have time. I’m blessed to be able to write every day and focus on my dream.
I’m also blessed to have an amazing tribe to help me stay focused and hold me up when the self doubt comes creeping in, which seems to happen on a daily basis.
Ah, Heather. How many years has it been? Talk about an inspirational and supportive friend! My very first essay on writing was published on your blog, for crying out loud. You were across an ocean, and yet we knew we were kindred spirits. And it’s crystal clear to this day that we “get each other.” I am grateful for that recognition, and for one of my oldest writing friends.
Speaking of slow writing, and not to rush you, but I am anxious for you to finish your last contract book. I’m dying to read more of that epic fantasy you started! ;-) Thanks for your encouragement and support, old friend!
Thank you for this post, Vaughn! Remembering to be grateful is a challenge. I’ve often been accused of being a Pollyanna, but I can beat up on myself with the best of them.
Soon after my memoir was published, I was speaking with the marvelous writer and teacher Marita Golden, explaining how upset I was with myself for not making the commitment to writing sooner, the all-out commitment that enabled me to complete the book and find a publisher.
She didn’t point out that I’d been a single parent working two and sometimes three jobs (the commitment to writing was my gift to myself when the kids left home). She didn’t point out that my book *had been published* so how great was that! Instead, she said that there is a right time in life for things, and this was my time for writing.
I often think of her words and, like you, try to remember to be grateful.
My wife is probably the closest to a Pollyanna in this house, Barbara. She’s invariably optimistic, and I’m grateful to have that aspect of her in my life (among many others). Marita sounds like a blessing, indeed. It’s been a recurring theme in my writing life, that wise teachers show up and say just the right things at just the right times.
Thanks for sharing the lesson. Continue to enjoy the gift you gave yourself. It was wisely and generously given.
1. The funk I was in 2014 sent me to blogs online and introduced me to new group writer friends. One of whom is YOU, Vaughn.
2. My agent quit the biz in 2014, but my mojo has returned and I feel GOOD about my decision to self-publish!
3. I’m in a weekly critique group with 4 other writers, 3 are traditionally published, 2 have hit the NYT. I’m learning from some kick-ass women!
4. I’ve being writing a LONG time (20 years). I’m one persistent human being. :)
You never cease to amaze me, Marcy! I’m blown away by the community you’ve built over at Mudpie Writing. And as busy as I know you are, you are unfailingly generous and supportive to others… One of whom is ME! And I’m grateful for it.
You’ve got some very inspiring flipped perspectives here, and thank you for them. They’re blessings for all of us. Here’s to kickass women – one of whom is YOU! :-)
Hi Vaughn,
You got so many wonderful responses–your post sparked a lot in all of us. I am with you on finding the gold in the moment–so much work to be
done, but the time to do it. I also have been working on one of my
novels for ten years. Maybe like a fine wine it’s getting better and won’t turn to vinegar. And the world will be better for your work and mine and we will be better for the process. Thank you, Beth
I’ll believe it if you will, Beth! Seriously, I do know I’m a better person for it. And I know you are, too. How can we not? We writers must inherently strive to be students of human nature. How can such study not elevate?
I’m grateful and humbled to have made so many sparks today. Thank you for sharing yours. Here’s to well-aged wine and stories. Cheers!
Oh Vaughn, I loved this post! I printed it out and underlined and circled many things. Thank you so much for writing it! I wrote four full novels in seven years before one was accepted by a publisher…now alas, it has taken me five years to complete this current one and when I find things that still need work or they are pointed out to me, yes, “the flow feels tainted.” You are so right!
I’m honored that the post resonated for you, Stephanie. And the fact that someone as accomplished and esteemed as you feels these things will go a long way to showing people like Leah (a new writer who commented above) that we are all simply striving at different points on the same climb. And that we all need to stop and take in the longview once in a while, and offer a bit of encouragement to our fellow climbers.
Thanks so much for sharing your more elevated perspective! Best of luck on the current work!
This is why I journal, Good Sir V. There’s something about setting my thoughts down in longhand which forces me into a balanced mindset where I no longer discount the wonderment of the journey, whether we’re talking about writing or other challenges.
Have you heard of isogaba maware? It’s a Japanese phrase for “make haste slowly”, which is my new favorite credo. Six books? I’d say that’s ample reason to believe you embody the principle.
Hey Boss – It makes a lot of sense, about keeping a journal. And I love the concept ofisogaba maware. I aspire, but I’m not as even-keel, as steadily self-aware as you. I always receive a sense of serenity and prudence from you, Boss, both in writing and in person. You have a calming effect, on me but I’m guessing on others, too. Wish we lived closer. I could use as much of that as I can absorb. Thanks for your kind words today, and your steadfast friendship and support, Jan!
Thank you for the high complement, V, though I submit I might have written the above paragraph and addressed it to you. A case of projection, methinks. ;)
I love the “flip side” … and those flip sides give ME strength to continue. Writing is a long (hellofalong) journey. But I imagine the “end” of any any story is worth all the writing, re-writes, re-re-writes. I’m getting there too…slow but sure.
You’re right, Karen, if we’re in it for the long haul, we need sustenance. Here’s the the strength fortification of gratitude and a positive outlook! Thanks for coming by and saying so!
Thanks, Vaughn. I needed that reminder (from your post as well as from many of the comments) that others get “the blues” about their writing from time to time. I’ve taken a different route (acting as my own publisher), but I started writing my mystery series in 1994 and didn’t publish the first two novels until 2011. I just released the 4th in the series this March.
If you’re like me, be prepared to never be truly satisfied. I don’t think it’s just me, but although I’m doing relatively well compared to many self-published fiction writers (from what I’ve read), each positive step forward has me saying “Is that all there is?” like Peggy Lee.
My issues as a self-published writer?
#1: It takes so much time and effort (and sometimes money) to get my books noticed, let alone purchased; it’s frustrating and discouraging.
Flipside: I’m learning more with every failed effort, just finding out what works and what doesn’t. As time goes by, I have a better idea of where to spend my time, effort and dollars. Learning is fun.
#2: Many people still don’t consider me a “real” writer because I publish my own books.
Flipside: It’s kind of cool to be a rebel or an underdog. Gives me sort of a renegade cachet – in my imagination, at least. Besides, perceptions do seem to be changing. I stopped at the town library yesterday to donate a set of my books so they’ll have them when the local paper runs a story on me later this month. The head librarian said she’d already heard of me and intended to order my books (cool!) and our provincial literary publication – in spite of me being just a lowly genre writer – recently designated my little town a “literary destination” on my account.
#3: I struggle for one or two years to write one novel and still don’t make enough to buy the year’s groceries with my annual income.
Flipside: I’m doing what I’ve always wanted to do, getting a sense of accomplishment from it, and it’s a damn fine hobby that doesn’t cost as much as golfing, world travel, downhill skiing, or collecting stuff. It even puts a few thousand dollars on the plus side of my ledger.
Flipping does help. Thanks for a little shot in the arm, Vaughn.
What a wonderful list, Ruth! And such a great supplement to the post. I hope that lots of the folks who need it read it. This should be a post of its own.
I once ran a business, but can only imagine the endurance required for both running that business and producing the artistic (and attention and emotionally demanding) product. You’re an inspiration! Thank you!
Lovely photo and post, Vaughn. As I grab a few moments of quiet before I serve supper to my family, I am deeply thankful for this writing life with them and our WU community. Oh, I get curmudgeonly too, more often than I should, but tonight, I’m going to sleep out on my porch under the stars and a crescent moon. It is always in the darkest night that the stars shine brightly, no?
I’m glad you found your invincible summer :) [In the depth of winter I finally learned that there was in me an invincible summer ~ Camus]
What a wonderful comment, Vijaya–a blessing. I LOVE sleeping out on the porch! That’s reason enough to be feeling blessed and grateful. And I also love the concept of an invincible summer in the Camus quote. I’m writing it down and sticking it on my office bulletin board.
I’m grateful that you are a part of my community!
Did I ever need this post today! I sent my MS to the beta readers yesterday and the euphoria lasted 16 hours and–Blam–I’m down. Thanks for reminding me I have 4 more stories to write, not to mention a blog to tend.
Oh good, Zan – You’ve got to love serendipity like that. So glad mine was the right message at the right time. Best to you! As my mom used to say, onward and upward!