The Latest and Not So Greatest

It's been a while, but there's been nothing to report in the world of my writing "career." I wish it was a career. Right now, unfortunately, I'm coming to terms with the harsh reality that it might always just be a hobby. I've really backed off the submitting and agenting process quite a bit the past few months, owed in part to my pregnancy and all that comes along with it. I haven't had much desire or drive to push it further, thanks to utter physical and mental exhaustion.

But even as I have stepped back, I have given more attention to perfecting not just my most recent manuscript, but my last one as well. I like to think the step back has been good, has given me a more crucial eye as I focus on the material itself and not the stress of getting agented. I've read and studied a bit more on the craft of writing (still learning and always will be), which helped me go back with new things to look for and new objectives when revising.

Over the last few months I have revised November Rain at least 2 more times (I stopped keeping track a long time ago) and my most recent one at least 4 more times. I'd like to think they are near perfect, but with all the revisions in the world I will probably never think that. I'm not sure I will ever be 100% confident in my work...even if it's sitting on a shelf in the fiction section at Barnes & Noble (I can only dream).

But after finishing a revision just a few minutes ago, I have a sense of finality that I usually don't feel, a satisfaction that it's at its best, as far as my skill level allows. Either way, I am done revising for a time--I'd like to think a long time. And when I get up the spunk to start agenting again, I will take what I have learned the last few months, brutally revise my query and pitch paragraphs (which were lacking horribly), and go at it again...this time trying not to get too many hopes up while still keeping a positive "Secret-like" attitude.

And I haven't mentioned a title for my most recent novel, but that is only because I am undecided. I have it titled with something temporary until I decide on a name...which could end up being what it is now (Elanor's Guardian), or something completely different (one on my list of many possibilities is The Lifeline). I have more than a few to choose from and I never thought it'd be so difficult to fully embrace just one. I always thought that when I'd think of the right one, it'd stick out to me and feel perfect, but none of them really do.

I need more opinions, if there is anyone out there willing to read it (who isn't already). Anyway, that's all for now!

Comments

Jessica Ellen said…
I really like the title of your new book. It fits well. and I LOVED the book. You are an amazing writer Jen and I think someone will soon see that
September 1, 2010 at 7:13 PM
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