For writers, the journey of writing is long. Whether it is a short story, a poem, novella or novel, a long, grueling process accompanies the task at hand.
The idea comes first. A vague inkling of something that could grow into something wonderful. Developing the idea and writing it down go hand in hand for some. Others do the planning first and only then begin the writing process. Even then, having a completed first draft is but the beginning.
Editing follows.
Every person, every author, has a different amount of times they need to edit their manuscript before it pleases them – before they feel that the hard work, the blood, sweat and tears that they put into it, paid off.
A long process follows the first writing and editing, but that is for another day entirely.
I have written short stories and poems in the past, but never have I completed a novel. Now, Tales of The Forbidden approaches its end. Despite the good 15,000 words that remain, butterflies have taken hold of my stomach and I feel the nerves – the excitement. Finishing a novel is something new. As the first part in a series that I started on September 30th, 2008, it is my precious. This entire series is.
Finishing Book One causes mixed emotions; I’m sure everyone has a system to these things; a specific way they feel when they reach their goal.
For me, the remaining 15k seem both so far away, and yet so close. It’s bittersweet. I really don’t know how I’ll feel once the last words hit the page.
What are your experiences with similar situations like and how do you cope?
And, to not forget; a bit of National Novel Writing Month sharing!
NaNoWriMo Word Count: 17,636
“We will find a way, Saria.” Lysire’s voice drifted into her ear. “I promise, but please, listen to us and let us help you. You cannot do this alone.”
Saria’s anger wavered. Lysire’s words penetrated the thick wall of rage and other emotions returned in a dizzying flurry. The flaring powers around her withdrew into her body and as they did, she weakened. Strength left her muscles and her legs wobbled.
“He killed them,” she muttered, legs giving out beneath her. “He killed everyone.”
Let me know what you think, and don’t forgot to tell me about your experiences; I’m dying to compare.
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November 19, 2011 at 3:51 pm
There is a freedom and celebration comes when I finish something.
November 19, 2011 at 3:53 pm
That makes sense. It’s always best to celebrate a bit before moving on to the next project.
November 19, 2011 at 5:25 pm
The last project I finished was in such a mad rush of creativity, I was both OMG THE END IS NIGH and OMG I CAN’T THINK I’VE BEEN WRITING NON-STOP FOR TWELVE HOURS or something ridiculous. 😉 It was really, really exciting, and also relieving. Kind of similar to the feeling you get after reading an excellent book, and how it’s so great to have all the answers and everything’s neatly wrapped up, but you’re sad it’s over.
~Ashlee
http://ashleesch.com
http://theDragonsHoard.bigcartel.com
November 19, 2011 at 5:45 pm
That does sound like a major rush of creativity! I can imagine that it does feel that way. If things work out, I might try to write the final words in the upcoming weekend, although that does promise a busy week!
I don’t work next weekend, so that would really be a perfect time to just go for it.
December 2, 2011 at 2:53 pm
Oh I get what you’re saying, totally. I’m in the same place now: finished NaNoWriMo at 62k (which is huge, never wrote so much EVER). Still have a little way to go, also about 15k. I’ll be glad when it’s done and I can start editting!
December 2, 2011 at 6:58 pm
Congratulations on finishing it at 62k! That’s a great achievement. Just stay persistent! The end really isn’t that far off.