Tag Archives: Writing craft

Writers lead exciting lives!

What I’m NOT doing today is lying on my back in a sunny field watching the clouds go by.

What I am doing is checking the page proofs for book one of King Rolen’s Kin.

I suppose I could be cleaning the stove …

No, honestly, I’m happy to spend the day checking the page proofs. There is something very satisfying about polishing your work and the closer the book comes to publication, the more satisfying (and scary) that is.

I had a nightmare the other night. I dreamed the book had come out and a reviewer gave it a scathing review. They said it was derivative. Then they pointed out all these things that were derivative and I was thinking how did I not see this? And feeling awful!

In the light of day I know the book is not derivative. Sure it is a traditional fantasy so it plays with themes that are familiar to all of us, but it is also quirky and fun because the characters are what drive the plot forward, which makes it a satisfying read. I hope.

I’m guessing every writer quakes in their boots when their book is about to be published.  Here’s hoping King Rolen’s Kin is a Keeper. What books do you consider Keepers?

Leave a Comment

Filed under creativity, Fun Stuff, Nourish the Writer, Writing craft

Recharge your Batteries

If you spend all day running like I do, juggling family, work and commitments that you took on because you thought they were a good idea t the time, then you probably need to recharge your batteries. It’s hard to be creative when you’re running on empty.

Here Jeffrey Baumgartner suggests 10 way to boost your creativity. For me numbers 9 &10 are most important.

‘Stimulate your mind by reading as many books as possible.  And exercise your brain by arguing with people (among other things). ‘ I don’t argue with people, LOL, but I’m always exercising my brain. If I don’t I get restless and seek out stimulation.

Maybe what you need is more time to do the things you really want to do. Here Michael Stelzner talks about time management skills for writers. And Annette Young talks about planning your writing day.

Maybe it is time you took one afternoon a week, just to do what you want to do — write that book, plant that garden, see the new exhibition at the art gallery.  Perhaps it is time to take a course in something completely frivolous that you’ve always wanted to do like making stained glass windows, quilting, or rock climbing. If you’re like me, you don’t have the time, but wouldn’t it be good to have one thing to look forward to all week?

How do you recharge your batteries. Me, I indulge in books and magazines about beautiful houses. Sigh.

2 Comments

Filed under Writing craft