This past week I awoke on Wednesday morning, feeling happy, and the first thought that popped into my mind was: "I am going to write a book."
My next thought was: " About what?"
A dear friend reminded me about my journals. That brought to mind notes I had taken over the years for book ideas. But they are no longer timely, as they were going to be non-fiction-pertinent to the experience. For example, I had wanted at one time to write about living in another country, but that log was created too long ago.
And, then it hit me! I had once bought a book by a popular author of our times which was a guide to writing and which included exercises that are book beginnings. So, that is a project for me to pursue...I need to find that book and revisit those spotlights.
And, reading a fellow author's blog reminded me there are other tools at my disposal, since I have never written a book. I have composed articles, poetry, essays and papers-some of which have been published. This associate's name is Martha Engber and her book has won 5 stars: " Growing Great Characters from The Ground Up." This guide would most certainly help my plan along.
I know there are courses out there also, including affordable ones at Adult Ed, and more expensive selections online or through local universities. For example, Writers Digest offers online courses.
Right now, I have a lot of other paying writing prospects in the fire, so I will savor this and write the book for myself. What got me to this point, I believe, is an offer to join a critique group. At that time, I felt my priority should be making an income, but that didn't feel right. I realized I needed a creative outlet in addition to my other writing. Poetry used to provide that fulfillment for me.
Seems like my path is widening. Upon reflection, I realized I had written bits of a fantasy legend at the age of eight-darting to my desk in the middle of the night. That may not be my intent now, but this new goal is invigorating!
My next blog, a week from now, will be regarding software and keyboards to save your hands.
Suzy, Good luck on posting weekly. Marketing my novel and the volunteer work at southbaywriters.com is keeping me too busy for that at my site, writerichly.blogspot.com. Just finished last chapter of Sagebrush at Seven Trout Creek. Your book should be an intersting project. It was good to hear your poetry reading at San Jose Poets. See you at the golf course.
ReplyDeleteHi, Suzy. Some good ideas for aspiring writers. What are some links to resources you mention?
ReplyDeleteSuzy Gal,
ReplyDeleteThis is the way to start, for sure. I would love to read a description of the path: what flowers are beside your feet, how tall and leafy are the trees, how warm or chill is the breeze against your face, can you smell the pines, redwoods or oaks? Then, step by step, you find the companion and build by letting the character speak to you, and maybe for you, too.
I'm looking forward to reading this to watch how you grow.
Best, S