Two years ago I won NaNoWriMo and wrote 50,000 words of a story in a month. After much tinkering about I found that there were some problems with it and I re-planned it to make a better story. So far, so normal.
This second version is my WIP and I've fallen out of love with it. I still believe in the characters and the world but something about the story isn't working. Writing it is like pushing a jelly uphill and that's no fun.
Now, usually I'd throw my hands up in horror, delete the darn thing and start something new, all the while berating myself and doubting my skills as a writer.
But I've grown as a writer in recent months and I'm approaching it in a different frame of mind.
This WIP will get written.
This story will get finished.
This writer will finish what she started.
Because this is where the 'work' starts. Pushing through the hard stuff, writing when it doesn't flow.
The craft of writing is out of the window and the graft of putting words on the screen begins. I will get a draft finished and I will edit the hell out of it to make it the best I can. Whether that is something I am totally happy with I don't yet know but I will make it as good as I can.
That's what it means to be a writer.
Well said.
ReplyDeleteGood luck.
Thank you!
DeleteWell done, Jo! I’m totally and utterly feeling your pain... I’ve been round the houses so much with mine, but I’m glad I’ve preserved. All the writers’ skill is in the editing. Don’t give up!
ReplyDeleteDon't mention editing!
Delete