The Journey of Writing a Book: A Personal Reflection

Writing a novel can be painful

Confessions of a Writer

Herewith a confession: as a writer, I’m a lazy bum. Writing a novel is a daunting task for most writers. In fact, the writing life is often lonely. You may find yourself facing a computer screen for weeks on end. Yet, the feeling of accomplishment when the book is finally finished to your satisfaction is sheer euphoria.

Each day I wake up with good intentions. I plan to buckle down and work on my novel-in-progress. But somehow, other things often seem more important. Or should I say, easier?

The Challenge of Finishing a Novel

Writing a novel is challenging. Even if you finish one to your own satisfaction, the chances of finding a traditional publisher can be low. That’s what happened with the first novel I completed in 2016, a mystery titled The Fury. I even secured an agent who was willing to represent me. She shopped it around for several years but failed to find a taker. Publishers didn’t find anything wrong with the book. However, as an unknown writer, they were hesitant to take a chance on it.

"Never mind," I thought, and started working on a sequel called Blood Ties. But I didn’t approach that project with the same dedication I had for The Fury. A little voice in my head kept asking, "What’s the hurry? It’ll probably get rejected too."

Exploring New Horizons

After years of wearying over my heroine, with whom I’d spent more than a decade, I needed a change. I began working on a memoir titled Elvie: Girl Under Glass. The writing flowed like sweet, cool water over river rocks. I didn’t need to create a world, invent characters, or worry about plot—my memoir was already alive in my heart.

I completed it within a year, and soon after, an independent publisher expressed interest. When I saw my book in bookstores and online, I felt an overwhelming sense of happiness. I had dreamed of becoming a published author since childhood.

The Urgency Fades

Having achieved that long-time dream, I urged myself to finish Blood Ties. However, now that I had published a book, the urgency to complete Blood Ties diminished. Years have passed since I started it, and even though I have a third draft, it still requires considerable work.

Perhaps the mystery genre is the issue? Should I retell this story as a family saga or a love story? Maybe even a comedy? The options swirl in my mind, making it hard to focus.

The Pull of the Characters

Despite my doubts, I feel a powerful force drawing me back to the world I have created. The characters who inhabit my story are like a part of me. There’s raw pleasure in revisiting them. The challenge lies in weaving together the myriad pieces of the story so that they fit seamlessly, creating a tapestry that sings like a marvelous choir.

I’m the type of writer who does a lot of rewriting and polishing. I mine my brain constantly to find the right words and images. I wish I could effortlessly tap my fingers on a keyboard and let a fully formed story spill out. Some authors seem to have that gift, like May Agnes Fleming (1840-1880), Canada’s first international bestselling author.

The Legacy of May Agnes Fleming

I'll tell you all about this marvelous woman in my next post. Her career inspires many aspiring writers, showcasing what can be achieved with dedication and creativity.

Whether it’s the journey of writing a novel or the arduous task of finding the right publisher, each step is worth it. The struggles make the accomplishments even sweeter. Let’s keep pushing forward in our writing endeavors, no matter how daunting they seem. Remember, every word you write brings you closer to your dream.

And remember, “Every writer struggles with self-doubt.” Use it to fuel your creativity, and let your voice be heard!