12/09/2011

The Work of a Writer


I’ve been fighting with the first draft of a new manuscript. And I think it’s winning. 

Yes, I wrote all through November, but finishing in December has been hard— partly because in December I just want to play, and partly because it seems pointless to write an ending for a story that I know will change significantly when I begin the read-through with an eye toward revisions. And the revisions will be major. 

So I’ve decided that after today, I'll end where I am. To set it aside, finish my Christmas shopping, enjoy my family, read some books and watch some movies. After Christmas is over, I’ll pick it up again and see where we are. But you know what? In spite of the struggle these past few weeks, the thought of digging in and making it better excites me. And I guess that is what it really means to do the work of a writer. 

5 comments:

Wendy Paine Miller said...

I'm excited to see what thoughts come to you in the next few weeks. Sometimes those down times are the best for the imagination to explode and characters to come to life! :D
~ Wendy

Anne Mateer said...

I agree, Wendy! I'm looking forward to seeing what grows during this fallow time. :)

Susanne Dietze said...

I can relate, Anne! It's been difficult for me to wrestle my manuscript into submission lately. Glad to know I'm in good company.

Anonymous said...

Enjoy the family time. :)

Anne Mateer said...

They are all different, aren't they Susanne? Some are so easy and others . . . sigh.

Thanks, VV!