I’ve spent most of the week polishing manuscripts. One is complete, apart from a final read through while I’m struggling a little with the other. It’s a 100,000 word manuscript. I know it needs work and I think I know how to make it a better read. I need to layer the characters a little better so their actions make sense and make my chapters flow from one to the other. In other words I need to work on ending hooks and chapter openings a bit, plus there are a couple of plot points that need smoothing. The trouble is I’m starting to second-guess myself. Honestly my confidence is so fragile sometimes and at other times I’m fine. I think it’s time for some positive news to boost my confidence. Hello?? Anyone listening out there?
Does anyone else second-guess their writing? Are you more confident with some books than others?
jeez! just call me if you need a confidence boost. Woman - your writing ROCKS! i’m serious! You are one of my most favorite authors and the stories are not only well written but enticing with storylines so addictive that you have me begging for more. Nah - not sucking up here, though it may sound like it. Just stating truth as i see it… or read it as the case may be.
I think all creative types get flustered and insecure though about their creations - i go into full blown panic attacks before an exhibition - every time.
by rhian October 12th, 2007 at 4:52 amI recognise the feeling, but my answer is different each time.
by Amy Gallow October 12th, 2007 at 5:26 amSometimes the problem is me feeling a little low, sometimes it’s the story itself, sometimes it’s that critical pause before I make a leap forward in ability, suddenly able to see my writing in a different light.
The truth of the matter is probably contained in the previous comment. Creativity seldom comes without the need to be self critical. It might cause us moments of insecurity, but it is the driving force that keeps us seeking perfection.
Amy
I’m going to second Rhian’s comments…your writing ROCKS!! And we all know how much I second guess my writing, especially this week. I know you’ll get through it. You gave me some excellent advice when it came to my block and I won’t repeat it, but you can do it! Maybe get someone to read it over for you, see if they pick out the things that are bothering you. It might help to have fresh eyes.
HUGS!!
by Christine d'Abo October 12th, 2007 at 5:26 amOh Shelley I ALWAYS second guess my writing. Especially now that the stuff is out there. Seriously I think I suck somedays. I am still waiting to hear from my editor about 2 manuscripts I sent two months ago. I’ve heard nothing so I am worried.
I always second guess myself.
Will this cheer you up though, I totally just bought Romancing the Alien. :) I’m looking forward to reading it when I have a moment or two. :)
by Amy Ruttan October 12th, 2007 at 11:35 amOh and just jumping the band wagon with Rhi and Christine. YOU SO ROCK!!!
by Amy Ruttan October 12th, 2007 at 11:38 amThanks, Rhian! You’re probably right about creative types getting insecure about their work. I think it’s because we invest so much of ourselves into our work. The project that’s giving me fits is one I really like but I’ve been told it needs work and I’m finding it difficult, hence the insecurity.
Amy - you’re right. How I feel about a project depends so much on my mood at the time. I’ll admit this year hasn’t been an easy one for me, which is another reason for the insecurity and self-doubt. I’ve been thinking about this a lot. I’ve kept working, which I guess is half the battle.
Christine - I’ve been considering getting a couple of beta-readers. I don’t have a critique partner. It’s personal preference but maybe a beta-reader would be able to point out the problems I’m too close to see. I thought I’d finish going through my manuscript and check over at Rom Divas to see if I can find some volunteers. Thanks for your support. I really appreciate it!
Amy - thanks so much!! I hope you enjoy Romancing the Alien. Killer, the talking dog is one of my favorite characters. Good luck with your subs, Amy. I think the editors are so busy at the moment that it takes a while. I have to wait most times and have given up stressing once the manuscript hits the out-box. I try to keep working on the next project. My editor is away on holiday and has been for almost a month. That’s holding me back because I can’t sub anything at the moment.
by Shelley Munro October 12th, 2007 at 9:23 pmHey, Shelley! I was just checking out you new site and saw this post on your blog. It’s too bad we’re not closer, we could get together and have a pity party. I just sent a 100k manuscript to my editor, the sequel to Adam and Eve…I now I’m sure she’s going to hate it. I should have worked on it longer, fixed the plot holes I’m sure are there, and as you said…layered the characters a little more.
At some point you have to take a deep breath, and let it go…Send it to someone to critique, (You know I’m always here for that.) or send it on to the editor and let them tell you what needs to be changed, if anything.
I think its the nature of the writing beast to second guess ourselves. I believe in you. I know it rocks.
So does the new website by the way!
by Ravyn Wilde October 12th, 2007 at 9:35 pmTake care,
Ravyn
Hi Ravyn! I was thinking about you the other day. Is your manuscript the one that I read part of? If so, you have no worries. I loved it, and I’m sure your editor will, too.
Thanks so much! I might take you up on your offer for a read through. I’ll email you once I’ve finished reading it through and putting in all the alterations I’ve decided on. I decided to have a day off writing today.
I’m glad you like you new website. I think Frauke from Croco did a wonderful job!
by Shelley Munro October 13th, 2007 at 1:32 amAll the time.
by Jennifer McKenzie October 14th, 2007 at 9:23 amThat’s why I have crit partners really. They help me STOP when I’ve tweaked enough AND tweak when I think I’m done.