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FEBRUARY 4TH QUESTION: Many writers have written about the experience of rereading their work years later. Have you reread any of your early works? What was that experience like for you?
Yes, I have reread some of my works. I have seven novels, six novellas, and a collection of short stories. Actually, I sit and wonder how I developed a particular work and where did I get my ideas. It's rather scary to think about it. When I write, I don't outline, unless I get to a stand-still or a stop, and I have to ask myself (or my muse): where is this story going next?
I don't believe in writer's block since I've been a writer all my life, writing all kinds of copy, commercials, continuity, grants, or technical works. If you've ever worked with quick deadlines for radio or television, you know that writer's block is merely taking a break and a breath and proceeding to pound the keys and make that deadline which could be only minutes or hours away.
Basically, when I write fiction, I'm writing a story that is a movie reel running in my head, and I'm copying it to paper. People call it being a pantser instead of plotter. I think of it as knowing the beginning and ending of all my stories, but often having a sketchy middle that my muses must devise on the spot. Maybe I really need to go back and reread some more of my works and analyze them more to find out how I did it? Great February question!
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I just read your post as if you wrote it for the December IWSG posting! Yes, I agree. I also didn't start writing until after I retired -- and, like you, I taught writing at a community college, including technical writing (the class no one else wanted to teach). But once I retired, encouraged by my husband, what new projects (which led to travel) opened up. All of them seemed to start with that same question you asked . . . what if???? Now, I have to go look at your books!
ReplyDeleteI would love to advise you on handling that dilemma, but I have the same one. I enjoy the writing more than the editing.
ReplyDeleteThanks. It's nice to know other writers are in the same boat. :)
DeleteWrite down the name of each story on a piece of paper, put them in a hat, then draw one out. Keep drawing until one hits you and then work on that. Okay, maybe not the greatest idea, but it's all I got!
ReplyDeleteNot a bad idea. I mistakenly thought, with winter here in Central PA, I'd get enough time and courage to tackle the project. Hah. I really am a dreamer!
ReplyDeleteA movie reel running in my head - that's exactly how I see it as well!
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