First novel, well underway

I began writing ‘Blood Princess’ on May 31, 2017. As of today, I have written roughly 85,000 words; I originally aimed for a 60,000 word manuscript. My original goal was to have the book finished, edited, and ready for publication by the end of this month. I intended to write around 2,000 words a day, every day. It’s gone well more often than not, but I’m beginning to understand why authors say finishing a novel is the hardest part.

I haven’t given up my goal yet, but I have accepted I may have to be flexible with the first novel. Eventually, I will develop the habit and the discipline to write a novel every two months. Or every three months; I could live with that too.

On writing my first novel

I seem to be learning a lot about myself while I write this first novel. Maybe some of it I knew already and have just remembered. Some of it I’ve never thought about before. I’ve decided to record it as it comes to me, and this is the first round.

  • I am a terrible chapter mistress. Some chapters have barely more than 1,000 words; others have more than 5,000. I’m leaving it though, because I like the way it flows. I’ll just have to do better next time around. Or not. (See next item.)
  • I am a reformed perfectionist when it comes to storytelling. I can hear the wisdom and realize I might be making a mistake, and I can still try it my way anyway. I am willing to fail in exchange for experience and understanding.
  • Being an author, or writer, or however I eventually decide to describe my profession, isn’t a thing I’m achieving. It’s a journey I’m taking.
  • I believe the reader’s comfort matters a great deal; a good story should go down easy. I also believe that challenging readers is important; a good story should stir you up. This strange balance is exciting.
  • Many goods are better than one perfect. Maybe.