One thing I feel I can do with this blog is be honest about the writing process. As it is with any author at some point in their career, I feel like I’m running against a wall right now.
For those who don’t follow me on my socials, I started a new book, against my better judgment, because I had an idea that I feel can be quite moving; but the task ahead of me is daunting, and I’m feeling it.
The story I’m currently drafting is updated in real-time on Inkitt, and it is entitled, I Didn’t Write About the Wolves. The novel will offer a very intimate look at the breakdown of a marriage and the question of it’s future as Zachary Brown refuses to sign divorce papers after cheating on his husband, Holden.
I’ve never written in the structure I’ve chosen to go with before, which alternates between the past and the present, and I think that’s some of what has slowed me down. I want to get this right. I need to time the tension of, basically, two stories to crescendo at the same moment for maximum emotional impact – not an easy task! The other thing is, the story is just so real, it is going to have to be far more character driven than plot driven – another bit of particularly tricky business.
There won’t be any outrageous antagonists in this one to fuel the drama. The core of this story is the flaws and desires of its characters. Tough, tough, tough!
I must love torturing myself…
That said, I am writing. Some days, writing means jotting down key scene ideas and plot points. Others, it looks like banging out a few paragraphs. On a good day, I can draft a solid ten pages, which is always my goal. Stephen King recommends writing every single day, and while I’ve done that for the better part of the last five or so years, I’m tired.
Another major contributor to the loss of my authorial momentum is a job that can be emotionally demanding at times, which is only compounded by a strong medication I’m currently on. Hopefully, I can stop taking it after the holidays. It will depend how much is built up in my system, though I am hopeful once that happens I’ll feel better.
All that to say, writing isn’t easy. Not for anyone. Not even people like me, who I know can churn out tons, and tons, and tons of interesting stories.
Right now it’s a struggle. Right now, my chapters will likely come slow. But, I keep on grinding because, at the end of the day, telling stories is what I think I was put on this Earth to do.
Keep on chipping away at your passions, whatever they may be! Sometimes, a simple a day dream will have to suffice. But it adds up.
Every little step you will yourself to take gets you closer to your dreams.
~ Kaycee
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