I suppose that this is always going to be an insecurity for me...the fear that I won't have anything to say or that my ideas will dry up, and I'll be caught with nowhere for my characters to go. Maybe that's why I stayed away from my stories for a few months, putting off the dreaded task of facing a blinking cursor. But the return to writing wasn't so bad. Once I started on November 1st, the words began to flow. First a thousand, then another and another. I can feel the end of my book approaching whereas before, it seemed so far away.
And admittedly endings are the hardest things for me to write. For me, starting a new project and being full of new possibilities is always far more tempting than revisiting the idea I've been spending time with for years. But always starting and never finishing is the hallmark of failure. The first cardinal rule of writing is to always finish. And that, my friends, is what I'm trying to do.
So here's some advice from me to you if you happen to share my insecurity toward writer's block...
Just give yourself time. Soon or later, everything will happen as it's supposed to.
That's good that you started writing again.
ReplyDeleteI have trouble with endings, too, plus I procrastinate too much. It's been awhile since I've been excited about writing, but today I got the final artwork for my cover, and that has me stoked. I hope your momentum keeps up!
ReplyDeleteFor most, there is always time.
ReplyDeleteStory endings and the ending of the writing process are the easiest for me. It's that beginning and the months of thinking and planning...
So glad the words are flowing, Michael. Keep it up!!
ReplyDeleteYay for writing again! I've always thought that was one of the best things about NaNo. It gives you an incentive to get the words down and be held accountable for it.
ReplyDeleteSometimes you do need to give things a little time, but sometimes, they need a little nudge. Glad to hear the word are flowing again. Keep it up and keep wiriting. :)
ReplyDeleteI agree that endings are the hardest..and that's where I'm at with my latest novel. I can so relate to the fear of never finishing it.
ReplyDeleteI wondered if you were still writing and I'm glad to hear your creative juices are again flowing. I find the beginning and endings of books easy to write. It's that nasty part in the middle that causes me trouble.
ReplyDeleteSooner or later, everything will happen as it's supposed to ... that's been the story of my life this last year.
ReplyDeleteGlad that you're back to writing. I'm having Offutt withdrawals. :)
Writer's block isn't a thing I worry about. I already have enough projects in various stages that I have enough to write for at least the next decade.
ReplyDeleteThe only time I have writer's block is if my ideas are backing up the flow. I might have said recently on my blog that if I didn't get my thoughts out with writing my mind would be constipated, which makes writing the laxative.
ReplyDeleteFor some reason, I don't like the song Time in a Bottle and will pretend you didn't mention it. :)
Good advice. I've not written much the last month. I must fix that pronto. Best with getting through NaNo.
ReplyDeleteYou've got an awesome series going, and so many intriguing projects Mike. I can't imagine your story well ever drying up. But writing breaks are good to revitalize that passion.
ReplyDeleteLoved the last line. Very inspirational.
I'm so glad you're writing a new story! For me it's not the endings I get hung up on but the beginnings and then at parts around the middle. Telling myself I'm good enough helps, and to bear in mind that I must simply write for me and for my readers (if any) and NOT (as you know) for agents and publishers. Maybe that way I'll enjoy the journey of writing again and to heck with where I end up.
ReplyDeleteI'm cheering you on so that you'll finish this story, Mike. You are already a big success in my eyes.
Good advice. I'm glad NaNo is working for you. Can't wait to read your next novel.
ReplyDeleteBest of luck Mike! You can do it!
ReplyDelete@dolorah: Thank you so much for saying so.
ReplyDelete@T.Powell: LOL Don't like the medley eh?
@Liz & Sheena: Thank so much for your encouragement.