I'm editing the first chapter of the novel for my critique group. We're meeting this weekend and I'm really looking forward to it.
Editing is always the best part of writing for me. That's when I get to play - with words, ideas, themes, etc. It's where I expand on those kernels of ideas I wrote down to begin with and flesh 'em all out to create a cohesive work of art.
In this particular novel, I find I'm digging deeper into my characters' lives, the themes of the work overall, and even how the setting plays an important role in the story. This is a growth moment for me. When I look back at my other novels, I don't see that same depth - which is probably why they will never be published. And really, that's ok. Growing in the writing craft is paramount to becoming a better writer. It's all part of the process.
Have you noticed any growth in your writing lately?
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I'm with you Melissa, I adore the editing phase. And working with a critique group is just plain fun:)
ReplyDeleteThe more I put myself out there with my writing and make myself available to receive feedback I think I'm growing by leaps and bounds.
If I had time to write, then maybe I would...Glad to see things are going so well with your editing :) I too love the process!!
ReplyDeleteI definitely see a difference in the book I'm finishing up now and the book I wrote previously. I've learned so much more structure, and voice with this book. Hopefully we all grow and get better!
ReplyDeleteI've seen growth in that I wrote a nf book proposal this summer. I like the way a proposal helps to structure a book before it's even written.
ReplyDeleteSeeing progress is so important to keep motivated. I'm glad to hear you see yours! Right now, I'm starting anew, letting go of a couple of past pieces, and doing it differently this time. I hope to see growth! I know with my photography, sometimes it looked worse when I began applying new techniques but did better, eventually surpassing even what I thought I could do. I hope to see that in my writing too.
ReplyDeleteThat pic was way funny! ;)
ReplyDeleteI'm loving this newer stage in my writing--giving myself permission to delve and explore and enrich.
Happy for you and can't wait to hear how it goes!
Looove revisions...that sense of going deeper and making connections that weren't there before. The little (and big) AHA! discoveries that surprise me along the way.
ReplyDeleteI feel like I'm constantly learning. And that I'm always not quite there yet. It's a good thing...keeps me striving.
Glad you're enjoying this, and best of luck with the critique group!
How exciting! Good luck!
ReplyDeleteI have noticed more growth in my books. I'm adding more arcs and writing more realistic characters. I love it!