In February I have a short story collection coming your way. While I was working on getting that to a good publisher (thanks Cornerstone Press), I have also been writing other things. Right now I have a new novel in a few people's hands.
I won't say too much about it just yet. But what I can tell you is that the last third of the book didn't quite have the punch I wanted. Its structure was different from the first two-thirds and I felt like it slowed the whole book down. While I thought I did a decent job of keeping the pace going, it still bugged me that it didn't match with the beginning.
Recently my wife underwent major surgery. It means she's had more downtime than she almost ever has. My manuscript was half-read on her night stand and she finally had the time and mindspace during her recovery to finish it. I was so relieved to hear that she liked it. I asked her about the final third. She said she didn't think the pacing was bad. But after I shared my displeasure with it, out she pops with the most brilliant, simple, and easily-achieved fix anyone could have thought of. I've been adding her idea to the manuscript, amazed at how seamlessly it fits in. It totally completes the story and adds even more depth to the characters.
Almost every day I get blast emails from writing sites as well fellow writers. So many tout the benefits of having a writing community. I'm very blessed to have so many writing friends, but I also get an in house genius. Someone lied and said writing is a lonely endeavor. How can it be when someone can read my work and make it better? How can I feel alone when I have all of you to share my words and ideas with?
*titled especially for Emily
コメント