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December 03, 2007
Keeping the Faith
You can tell I've gotten caught up on my blogging, reporting about my latest (and last) trip of 2007. Even though blogging is a form of writing, it does distract from the work at hand: a much-struggled over novel.
There was nothing for me to do except clear my calendar for the next few weeks, apply a liberal dose of bum glue and stick myself in my writing chair. I knew there was an important reason for telling the story I've been working on but it resisted any of my efforts to get it whipped into shape. Last week, I spent every single day like a modern day Jacob, wrestling with words. And I produced thousands, one or two of which aren't bad.
But I still didn't know exactly where I was headed. I recalled the words that had inspired me so while writing Hattie, words shared by YA author Randy Powell: "You've got to write through the bad stuff." I forced myself to stay in my chair and plunk away, even when I could hear the junk drawer calling me to come reorganize it.
Last night, my sheer stubbornness paid off. Though it kept me awake much of the night, I finally figured out what I couldn't see before. I had the hook, the theme, the raison d'etre of my story. It was the classic example of what Picasso and others have said: "Inspiration only finds you when you're working."
Maybe my epiphany will help you. If you are stuck, dedicate the next few weeks to writing away, no matter what. This sounds trite but keep the faith. There is a reason you've been led to write a particular story. Honor that impulse with the hard work needed to bring the story to life.
Then, you can go clean out the junk drawer.
Posted by kirby at December 3, 2007 10:51 AM
Comments
Ahh, thank you. I've been struggling with a story, seemingly stuck. But I think a decent amount of butt glue is exactly what the situation calls for.
Thanks for the advice.
Posted by: Suzanne at February 29, 2008 12:26 PM