A Writer's Journey through the Maze of Life

Monday, May 16, 2011

TAKING THE LEAP



  • Writers are a dichotomy. On one hand we are vain about our work, on the other hand, we are filled with doubts and fears. Have you ever found yourself saying: I can't write that. What will my spouse/the church ladies/my boss/my friends think of me?I better find a nicer way of saying that.What if I do let loose and someone criticizes me for it?


Beginning and novice writers are plagued by doubts of how far they should go in their stories. And indeed some editors, contest judges, and publishers may frown upon letting it all out. But there also comes a time when you the writer must take a leap of faith. Think about some of the best writers of all times. Did they cower in their writing? I agree with C. Hope Clark who says, "Good writers spill their blood, guts, sweat (and whatever other body fluids they have) all over the paper. There's no holding back. There's no worrying about what a mother will think or if it will upset a particular political party."



I know the current novel I'm working on will shock a lot of people. They'll no doubt say, "How could she write that stuff?" Although we all want to be the next bestselling author, my stance is: This is necessary for the story to ring true. I'm feeling more confident about my writing. Are you?Are you ready for that leap of faith?