Tuesday, October 29, 2013

Is it worth it?

Normally I write Women's Fiction but a story inside my head screamed to come out. You've heard that before, right? Probably said it yourself a few times. So I sat down and wrote what I figured was a suspense novel.

I've tightened the scenes, added elements that hopefully leave the reader with a heightened sense of concern for the main character. I've been taking my time on this book--my eighth one.

Yes, I said eighth. I'm still learning so much despite a mountain of writing books, conferences and critiques. I've finally made myself cut out all telling even though I wanted to keep some for backstory. In this book, I cut dialogue tags and used only action tags, too.

But will this book be good enough to capture the attention of an agent or a publishing house?

Maybe. Maybe not.

I've been writing books for almost eight years. Twice, I quit. One time for several months. But I start again and again, hoping and waiting.

Is it worth it?  All this waiting and wondering and writing and dreaming and hoping?

When do you tell yourself to stop? Go back to articles that pay well. Get a new passion. When do you say writing isn't your thing?

I believe I can never permanently stop. I'll probably be writing ten years from now and twenty hoping I can finally write a story people want to read.

Are you that way too?

So for now I'm waiting and writing and learning. Oh, and plotting my ninth too.



11 comments:

Karen Lange said...

Like you, I can't see myself ever stopping writing. You are one smart writer - ever improving and growing. Many people don't want to invest the necessary time. It's tough to stay with it; I've wanted to throw in the towel often. I am sure your perseverance will pay off for you one of these days! :)

Saumya said...

I know what you mean but your inner voice giving you stories is a sign that you can't stop. You're writing because you enjoy the process and your hard work will definitely pay off!

Karen Jones Gowen said...

That is a lot of writing. And practicing. And learning. I wish all writers would do this much before querying or publishing.

Lynda R Young as Elle Cardy said...

I'm working on my 6th. I ask this question too, but like you, I can't stop writing. Not completely.

Joanne Sher said...

I'm not sure, to be honest, terri. I keep changing genres, and getting distracted. I think ive found my niche - but we'll see.

Great Grandma Lin said...

I'm stuck on marketing my 5th book and getting it made into an e-book. Slowing down on the writing part-focused on poetry these days...

Cheryl Klarich said...

Let's face it, Terri, it's just IN you to write!!

You go girl!!!

B. WHITTINGTON said...

Terri do not give up! I finally went the self publishing way with createspace for paperbacks (Amazon) and have my books on kindle as well. I worked hard for 20 years. Did all the right things. Queried literally hundreds of places. Both publishers and agents. Landed a well known agent who loved my work. She couldn't sell my stuff. Finally after five years of trying she and I parted company on friendly terms. I'm thrilled with the way my books are selling and that they are available world wide. Good luck with whatever route you take next. Barb

Linda O'Connell said...

I have gone from Chciken Soup to writing a horror story with no gore. That was a new one for me, but it is suspenseful. Don't you love when you write out of genre?

Anonymous said...

I admire and am inspired by your tenacity. November 1st, 2013 marks my first step back into writing again. You have taken many step on this writing journey of yours, and I agree with Karen that your perseverance will pay off (and in a way is already as the stories keep coming to you).

Connie Arnold said...

Terri, you need to keep writing! You have so many good things to write, a great talent to share. Hang in there and persevere. Wishing for you to see wonderful rewards from your writing and great blessings!