I picked up the paperback of my novel the other day
and started reading through it. By the time I’d finished a paragraph I
think I might have cringed at least five times. The scary things is that
the novel was only finished less than a
year ago. I don’t think it’s even a case of my writing skills
improving, but more of one of comparison.
Recently, I’ve been
dabbling in fanfic and have come across some really amazing writers.
It’s got me thinking that if these writers are able to craft their
stories so well at something they’re not wanting to publish
professionally, then what hope do I have of capturing a reader’s
attention with my meagre skills? I know I’m not terrible and I’ve come a
long way from when I first started, but it also feels like there’s a
limit to how much I will ever be able to improve.
Writing is stylistic and some people are just born with the ability to
wield words in a more pleasing style. I also know that very few writers
get by on talent alone and I should just keep going regardless. Which is
what I will definitely do. It’s just hard
is all.
Hey, Lan! Long time no chat.... I know I cringe when I read my own stuff from years ago, but I also realize that, despite my old crappy writing skills (that have only improved somewhat), the story is good. How do you feel about the story aspect aside from how the writing delivers it? How do you feel about your characters as personalities?
ReplyDeleteImagine your story is in a different medium, away from the words on the page. How do you feel about the different aspects of it? You might see some merit in it, after all. I think story telling and all its aspects is what matters most. Pretty words are great, but they're just words.
I cringed when I reread my first book. (My publisher asked several of us if we wanted to make any updates.) There were so many things I'd done poorly, at least in my eyes.
ReplyDeleteWe are our own worst critic. You are a better writer than you think!
You're a great writer, Lan. Don't be too hard on yourself. I agree with Cathy. Look at the good things and realize their worth. I've liked what I've read of your so far.
ReplyDeleteLan, I haven't met a writer yet who doesn't worry that their work is unreadable. I've been published and yet I still am amazed when I get a good review. Then I wonder who paid them to say that. I can tell you're a good writer. The fact you won't give up is a huge hint. Plus your blog posts are awesome!
ReplyDeleteMaybe you are used to editing your own work so much that you can't look at anything you write without wanting to improve it. It's okay. I do the same thing.
ReplyDeleteI don't think writers are born with their talent. I truly believe that great writers read a lot and I believe we learn our craft by reading other writers works and reading and studying craft books. So that means there is no deficit that you have that you cannot fix. Plus, writing is an ongoing learning situation. Your second book will be better than your first because you've already learned a lot. So keep writing, keep reading, keep learning. Don't look back. Look forward.
ReplyDeleteAll the best.
Shalom aleichem,
Patricia