Tuesday, April 13, 2010

Almost There or Just Beginning?

Sometimes I think I'm almost there. So close.

And sometimes I think I'm only just beginning.

Three years ago, when I completed my first novel, I thought I was almost there. Then I learned about query letters. Six months later when I got my first partial manuscript request, I thought I was almost there. Then I learned about rejection. One year later when I had my first full manuscript request, I thought I was almost there. Then I learned about requested rewrites.

Every time I come to a new corner, I think publication is right around the bend. Then when I find it isn't, I feel lost in the maze. Will I ever get out?

So I'm through thinking that I'm close. I won't tell myself that anymore. I'm going to tell myself that I'm only just beginning.

There's so much to learn. All I want to do is write the very best books that I can. Yes, I care passionately about becoming a published author, but what I care most about is creating the kind of reading experience I love. That isn't measured by publishing contracts.

And when I do hold my first published book in my hands, I will tell myself that I am only

just

beginning.

9 comments:

  1. I feel this way a lot. I was thinking about this yesterday b/c my editor said we are almost there. after feeling like it would never happen...but then again, I'm not there yet.

    ReplyDelete
  2. Writing is a lesson in perseverance. You persevere through doubt that your story is worth telling. You persevere through the difficult process of actually finishing it. You persevere through the editing process. Then you have to square your shoulders and prepare the ominous query letter. Then comes publishing...

    It is so nice to know there are others out there facing the same obstacles and challenges as me. Your advice, shared experiences, and words of encouragement really help. Thanks for sharing!

    ReplyDelete
  3. Great comments, gals! It's like Dorrie says in Finding Nemo, "Just keep swimming, just keep swimming, swimming, swimming, just keep swimming..."

    ReplyDelete
  4. Love that Rebecca! The catch is to cultivate Dorrie's attitude. Maybe memory loss might help with the discouragement.

    ReplyDelete
  5. Having friends along the journey is the only thing that makes it bearable. And joyful. And worthwhile.

    Keep swimming!

    ReplyDelete
  6. This falls under the "sad but true" category. Only those with the most patience will make it through the grueling obstacle course of the publishing world.

    ReplyDelete
  7. Every time you send out your manuscript, that is a step closer. AND every rejection is paying your dues and a learning experience. You have the right attitude. You'll get there!!!

    ReplyDelete
  8. Thanks for the encouragement, Kathi! And you too, Nikki. I may not be brilliant, but I know I've got patience. I'll make it so long as I don't give up.

    ReplyDelete
  9. Great post and a great attitude! =D

    ReplyDelete

LinkWithin

Related Posts with Thumbnails