While I don't often suffer a bout of writer's block anymore, I constantly go through fits of writer's doubt. Right now I'm in pretty deep.
I have never ever doubted my ability to come up with a killer story, but I constantly doubt the words that come out of my head to convey that story. Am I any good at writing, really? Am I just kidding myself with trying?
Sometimes I feel like I might be one of those American Idol contestants--you know the ones I'm talking about. I think I sound amazing. I think I'm the next American Idol. Then they go up to the judges, and all of America for that matter, and they can't sing a note in tune and forget half the lyrics...then they beg the judges for another chance because they just know they are a star.
I know that kind of doubt is unhealthy, but sometimes I just can't help but think that even if I have a great story idea, I'll never be able to execute it well enough to merit publication.
"Don't quit your day job," says Simon.
Here's a big pat on the back and a gentle shove forward. Quit doubting, do your editing, and get your query out there. I haven't seen much of your writing, but what I have seen is good, and you'll certainly never know if you don't try.
ReplyDeleteThanks for the gentle shove, feel free to give me a good kick in the pants too.
ReplyDeleteI'm almost done reading through my first draft (making sure the plot holes are filled), and I think that might be fueling some of the doubt.
Okay, you don't need to write my synopsis for me anymore ; ) But I wouldn't mind if you'd take a look at it...
ReplyDeleteI go through that alot, almost daily. It's funny, because when I've talked about it with Ben, I've used the exact same analogy of American Idol.
ReplyDeleteStill, you can't let those thoughts get to you. I agree with Kiersten, from what I've read, you ARE able to express those awesome ideas in writing.
And, by the way, I really do think you have an awesome story concept. It's more marketable than mine, that's for sure, and it's so creative. Seriously, you'll do good. I have a feeling. :)
Oh, and I'll read your synopsis too, Kiersten. If you'd like.
Ah ha, Kiersten, I just went onto your blog and I see that the synopsis is there.
ReplyDeleteYea I definetly get that as well Natalie.
ReplyDeleteYou have to push right through it. There is a wealth of stories out there varying in their premise and way of telling the story.You've just got to remind yourself that you're able to tell your story well.
I definetly have to convince myself sometimes. Most of the time I listen to music and write. It's the best.
MOM WISDOM:
ReplyDeleteStick with your passion!! People who are passionate succeed!! It's a simple truth!
There's always room out there for you and all of your writer friends and even if there isn't we'll just have to MAKE ROOM!!! : )
XOXO, Your LOVING MOM
I have days where I go through both extremes. Sometimes I think what I'm doing is just fantastic. Sometimes, even the next day, I can just stare at what I'm writing and question if I have any business even considering a career as a writer.
ReplyDeleteDefinitely don't give up on your writing, though. Don't get the feeling from what I've read in your blog that you could... and that's a good thing.
Stumbled onto your blog by way of Jenny's "Lit Soup." Best wishes with your writing.
Oh yeah, definitely fave-ing this. Because Writer's Doubt? SO MUCH WORSE than Writer's Block. Sadly, I know exactly where this post is coming from.
ReplyDelete