It occurs to me every day how mediocre a writer I am. Yet, there are moments when I perceive brilliant clarity in my work, and that helps to stave off those times of self-doubt. I believe these same myriad of emotions and thoughts plague every writer on their journey of self-discovery and enlightenment as it relates to their work.
With this push-pull going on in our minds, is it any wonder most writers fail in their attempts to glean publishing contracts?
Let's examine for a moment the complexities of our own thoughts. As we sit to pen the perfect novel or story, we see it play out in our minds. Getting it down on paper is a task not unlike trying to put a leash on a flea. The long, painstaking process causes frustration when we cannot articulate exactly what our minds see.
Adding to that frustration could be critique or brainstorming partners who don't always see where you are headed. That, of course, is not always a bad thing. They represent our readers. If you can't make them see your story, it warrants a rewrite. Hence, more stress.
How do we improve our work?
First we must rein in the wild beasts that roam around in our already overcrowded minds. Structure is key. Writing should involve discipline, routine and a keen understanding of exactly what it is we want to say.
Most writers won't want to read the next line....
You MUST outline, create character profiles, edit and rewrite often to obtain that structure.
All too many times, novel manuscripts have been submitted to me that lack the answer to the all important question, "Why." The reader is left dissatisfied by words that don't gel in their minds because the writer has simply not done their job.
In this fast-paced world, writers are often hurried and impatient to finish the book. But the job won't be done right if we can't find ways to restrain scenes that seem to run amok. Readers want a story that makes perfect sense... to them. This takes time, something far too many writers have a hard time giving themselves. There is a sense of urgency that unfortunately will leave the reader catatonic.
Getting a publishing contract is not all there is to it! Sure, we take great satisfaction in seeing our novel on bookstore shelves or sold as an eBook. But, how satisfying will it be if that book does not sell? Those ensuing feelings of failure much outweigh the initial excitement of a contract and subsequent book.
My best advice to authors -- take the time and do it right! The end result will be a book that shows your true capabilities and will glean you recognition as a "good" writer instead of a mediocre one.
All Rights Reserved
Copyright 2001
The contents of this article may not be reproduced in any form or by any means, including electronic, mechanical, or with intent to republish, without written permission from the author,
Sharzi Avins.
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