Working on the sequel to my first novel has been a wonderful experience. Not. More accurately, its been disappointing – feeling like a wretched waste of time as I write and rewrite… And with each new effort, the story feels more forced.
In an effort to continue on, I decided that I might need to change some things up. In the past, I’ve been a pantzer. Considering my lack of progress, I thought that plotting might help. Yeah – nope. Not so much. In fact, I think planning the story sucked all the joy from the project.
I discussed my writing problem with a dear friend. She offered me some real insight: STOP OVERTHINKING IT!!! There’s no right or wrong – it’s my story after all. She went on to advise me to stay true to my writing style – so I’ll be flying by the seat of my pants again. And I find that rather liberating. Instead of worrying over my lack of progress on the sequel, I’m allowing myself to answer the call of my muse. She’s been patient long enough and I’m afraid that if I don’t heed her call, she may very well leave me. It would be nice if she turns my heart back to the sequel but if not – that’ll be okay. There are other stories to tell.
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I gave my book to a friend to read – I thought it stunk to high heaven especially as I read and re-read – Elizabeth finished it the other day and swears that she loves it, (I have made her suggested corrections) Another persoen (beta reader) says she is hooked – . Either I am being lied to or they speak the truth. Now, when my sister tells me she likes the story, I know it must be half way decent – she loves tearing my work apart. Just goes to show that most writers are so very critical of themselves. After all, we are delving inside our souls to pull out perfection – I look in the mirror and honey, I see ALL the flaws. to coin an out dated phrase – JUST KEEP ON TRUCKIN’.
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