September has been a funny old month, but an interesting part of my journey as a writer so far. As for most aspiring writers, it has been one of ups and downs, but feel I've learned quite a lot along the way.
It started slowly, but at least I was writing. I've made a start on my Madrid story, inspired by my recent trip there and feels good to look further afield for setting allowing the story to go in a completely different direction The next column was written, submitted and published, and the next one is all ready to go. I'll admit that I've chosen a couple of deeper issues and subjects, but they are things that are important to me, and I'm learning not to be scared as a writer and share my thoughts. This has be proved a positive this month with the column well received both by Writers Group and by friends on Facebook.
I'm still throwing the website idea around, having found a way of setting it up for free, but just haven't had the time to really start looking at it in detail. Its something I'm still keen to pursue, not just as a way of me sharing my own work, but also for other aspiring writers too. Social media- Facebook, Twitter and even my blog- are all part of publicising yourself as a writer, so at least I'm going in the right direction, sharing thoughts, some work and articles and links that I find interesting and could be useful to others. I'm still constantly inspired by other authors whether by reading their published novels, articles or useful tips. As a writer I believe you are forever learning from those around you, and I make sure I tell them that too (via whatever social media is appropriate!) But it can also be very distracting (something I struggle with), like a vortex of procrastination, so the secret is to try and get the balance right and not to let it take over from the real task of writing.
'Cherish your writing sessions'
Again, I'm struggling to finish things that I've already started. I found it hard getting back into things after a break, and although there's been plenty of scribbling for new ideas, I'm not sure how to get the spark back to finish other projects. I've been very up and down with my writing, often making excuses and finding other things to fill the time. Some days I seem to have a good lunch break, feeling that I've achieved quite a bit, but then not so good once I get home in the evenings. Its so frustrating. Its been a month of good intentions but feel that I haven't achieved as much as I could have. I've read lots, taken useful notes and had a few new ideas, but looking back I don't feel I've done much actual writing. Weekends and evenings have been filled with various things and all of a sudden we have reached the end of the month, so I need to try and take more out of the things I do or just the everyday, there are stories and ideas everywhere, I just need to keep my eyes open to them. So time for no more excuses!! I need to get on with the task of doing some actual writing...
No writer has problems starting stories, and may not even have problems finishing them (apart from me at the moment!) but its the middle that is the story graveyard, littered with corpses of books, blog posts, articles. We need to learn the hard task of writing through the mess. That's the part I'm finding the most difficult. Saying that, I have revisited a couple of abandoned projects, with a small spark of renewed enthusiasm, so its the time that is needed. I'm still learning to make the most out of the spare time that I do have, and attempt to focus on using it to write, even just a small amount. I've had a few nights recently where my brain and thoughts don't seem to switch off, and haven't been like that for a while, so feel that something maybe slowly creeping back. Not that I'm complaining, just have to make sure I note everything down before it disappears, even if it means delaying sleep..
I've been thinking a lot recently about what I want out of life, especially work related. My ultimate dream would be to become a full-time writer, but as I'm still in the relatively early days, that dream is a long way off from becoming a reality, although I am pleased with the start I've made. I'm still learning about what type of writer I am or indeed, will become, and finding a voice of my own, but I'm certainly having a good time trying! So with that in mind, I have to think seriously about what I can do to get there, but also be sensible with the choices that I make along the way. I need to take more pride in my work and do the whole process properly, particularly when it comes to editing. Not just with fiction, but take more time over pieces, columns etc to make sure they are right, and don't leave everything until the last minute to do!
'Remember being a writer is something to be proud of ' Next time my confidence takes a dip ( as it often does), I just need to remind myself of what's great about me and my hobby. I did manage to finish some poems this month, for a couple of friends birthdays and had a piece published in an online magazine, so I need to celebrate each achievement, however big or small. Keeping our writing to ourselves makes us writers, sharing it with others and having it published (even in a small way) means we are authors.
But deadlines... other than the column, I have yet to get into the habit of setting any. But I have now realised, perhaps a bit late in the day, that I've been doing just that with this blog, choosing the very last day of the month to type up and publish it. I spend the rest of the month collecting notes and thoughts, building up something to say and share. So now I just need to start applying the same idea to my writing projects, I might actually finish something then! I will try and use competitions to help with this too, which reminds me, a deadline is fast approaching, so better get on with my entry!
And so on the last days of the month, I finally feel excited, that I'm getting my writing mojo back. Despite the new ideas recently I haven't been happy with what I have or indeed, haven't done. I just hope this feeling isn't short-lived and I can start to focus again and remember why I write.
Wednesday, 30 September 2015
Saturday, 22 August 2015
August 2015
Now I realise that this is at least a week early, but off to sunny Spain in a few days so wanted to get this done before we went!
Reading over all my previous posts, I found that I had started with a certain voice, almost like I was telling a story, and feel this has been lost over time and become more of a 'I did this...' I think a blog almost needs a bit of both. After all, my main reason for starting this was to share my own writing journey and opinions, so I guess that I need to just try and get the balance right! I feel that I'm still trying to find my voice in anything that I write, unsure of what that is yet, so will just keep writing in the hope that it comes out.
'Don't make nothing of what you've achieved'
Its so true, and something that I find as a writer hard to do! I'm constantly beating myself up if I don't think I've done enough, or indeed anything at all! I always start out with plans of what I want to do, and feel all fired up, but then (much like me sitting here doing this) carrying them out is the hardest part. I'm the kind of person who gets easily distracted with excuses such as 'I'll just do this..' and I've lost half an hour already and not written a word. Its so frustrating. I think its just the way I am, as I'm like it at work too (and where as I get bored at work, I love writing), so maybe a change in my mindset is required if I'm going to move forward!
'Write to suit yourself, and keep on writing and re-writing until you can do more. Oh, and read. Never stop reading' Rachael English
Just one of the useful pieces of advice I have found and followed recently. So simple, but so effective to live by. Typing up what I've done so far of my 'novel' has brought back all the love I felt for the story as I was starting to write it. It's still a work in progress, but I can now see what I've got so far, so the next job is to edit some more, but into some kind of order so I can see clearly where to go next. I'm proud of what I've done so far though, as its the most I've written on one thing, and still not finished! I've also found renewed enthusiasm for my Oxford story. Like with many of my unfinished projects, I'm over excited at the start and love the idea, and then a little way in, hit a wall of some sort and don't come back to it for a bit. Thanks to a tip from my sister, this was a project I decided to pick up again and have done lots more research and looked at areas that I want to work on and include, in order to have a clearer idea of where I want the story to go. That's my trouble, I rush into getting all the thoughts down onto paper without much thought at the start of where a piece will end and what will happen. Something else to continue working on. That said, I've tried to make time to work on a variety of projects rather than just getting stuck on one, in order to try and keep the ideas and writing fresher, and seems to be working!
One thought to try and get me more focused on my writing, and blocking out everything else would be to go on a writing retreat or workshop of some description.Inspired by fellow writers, there's plenty available, its just a case of having the funds available to be able to take part in something like this.I would love to be able to spend a whole week, maybe longer in somewhere like the Gladstone Library or on one of the Arvon retreats, using the time just to write, nothing else, inspired by my surroundings as well as other attending writers. That's something that will have to wait for now, but never say never! I've had a month of small discoveries, the main one for me is setting myself up on Twitter. I knew it was there, just not the advantages of using it. Spurred on by a good friend and fellow writer (thank you!) I am now a tweeter and using it as a new way of expanding my social media and reaching a wider audience. I'm still a bit of a novice, but enjoying it so far, sending messages to other authors, and even getting some replies, so all very exciting! I've learnt that we are now in a time where if you want to do anything in life, you have to get yourself out there, which I'm slowly doing. Following other authors, some new to me and others who I have long admired, I've found that they too have their own blogs, to share thoughts and opinions as well as a place to do a bit of publicity. Like me, it is a way of getting things down and sharing the journey.
A few new ideas sparked over the last few weeks, thanks to a cultural and inspirational trip to London with a couple of fellow writers, lots of things to see and do, and sharing of ideas and thoughts. Sometimes all it needs is a change of scenery to get the pen moving! The next column was written, submitted and printed, I've done six in total now and still enjoying the moment when I see what I have written in print, knowing that a wider audience will see it. It may only be a small thing, but its a good start! Writing magazine has also been a fountain of knowledge that I've been delving into over the last few weeks, finding plenty of useful tips and information, as well as the interviews with other authors, which I find helpful in my own writing and where I'm going.There is a free competition that I'm hoping to enter, and the plan is to finish the pieces over the next couple of days, ready to submit before the deadline. Competitions can be useful, as they usually have some kind of theme, sparking new ideas and at least giving a specific direction of where a piece needs to go, we will see if I can do it, but I'll certainly try, submitting to a deadline is something I will need to get used to for when the day comes that I have a publishing contract and an agent! In the words of a favourite author, I was a dreamer, but now I'm a doer and that day will come if I keep working at it.
So with my holiday fast approaching, (and I can't wait!) I already have my notebook packed, with an idea of a story floating around in my head, I hope being on location will only inspire me further as I discover the place behind the story, we will see!
Reading over all my previous posts, I found that I had started with a certain voice, almost like I was telling a story, and feel this has been lost over time and become more of a 'I did this...' I think a blog almost needs a bit of both. After all, my main reason for starting this was to share my own writing journey and opinions, so I guess that I need to just try and get the balance right! I feel that I'm still trying to find my voice in anything that I write, unsure of what that is yet, so will just keep writing in the hope that it comes out.
'Don't make nothing of what you've achieved'
Its so true, and something that I find as a writer hard to do! I'm constantly beating myself up if I don't think I've done enough, or indeed anything at all! I always start out with plans of what I want to do, and feel all fired up, but then (much like me sitting here doing this) carrying them out is the hardest part. I'm the kind of person who gets easily distracted with excuses such as 'I'll just do this..' and I've lost half an hour already and not written a word. Its so frustrating. I think its just the way I am, as I'm like it at work too (and where as I get bored at work, I love writing), so maybe a change in my mindset is required if I'm going to move forward!
'Write to suit yourself, and keep on writing and re-writing until you can do more. Oh, and read. Never stop reading' Rachael English
Just one of the useful pieces of advice I have found and followed recently. So simple, but so effective to live by. Typing up what I've done so far of my 'novel' has brought back all the love I felt for the story as I was starting to write it. It's still a work in progress, but I can now see what I've got so far, so the next job is to edit some more, but into some kind of order so I can see clearly where to go next. I'm proud of what I've done so far though, as its the most I've written on one thing, and still not finished! I've also found renewed enthusiasm for my Oxford story. Like with many of my unfinished projects, I'm over excited at the start and love the idea, and then a little way in, hit a wall of some sort and don't come back to it for a bit. Thanks to a tip from my sister, this was a project I decided to pick up again and have done lots more research and looked at areas that I want to work on and include, in order to have a clearer idea of where I want the story to go. That's my trouble, I rush into getting all the thoughts down onto paper without much thought at the start of where a piece will end and what will happen. Something else to continue working on. That said, I've tried to make time to work on a variety of projects rather than just getting stuck on one, in order to try and keep the ideas and writing fresher, and seems to be working!
One thought to try and get me more focused on my writing, and blocking out everything else would be to go on a writing retreat or workshop of some description.Inspired by fellow writers, there's plenty available, its just a case of having the funds available to be able to take part in something like this.I would love to be able to spend a whole week, maybe longer in somewhere like the Gladstone Library or on one of the Arvon retreats, using the time just to write, nothing else, inspired by my surroundings as well as other attending writers. That's something that will have to wait for now, but never say never! I've had a month of small discoveries, the main one for me is setting myself up on Twitter. I knew it was there, just not the advantages of using it. Spurred on by a good friend and fellow writer (thank you!) I am now a tweeter and using it as a new way of expanding my social media and reaching a wider audience. I'm still a bit of a novice, but enjoying it so far, sending messages to other authors, and even getting some replies, so all very exciting! I've learnt that we are now in a time where if you want to do anything in life, you have to get yourself out there, which I'm slowly doing. Following other authors, some new to me and others who I have long admired, I've found that they too have their own blogs, to share thoughts and opinions as well as a place to do a bit of publicity. Like me, it is a way of getting things down and sharing the journey.
A few new ideas sparked over the last few weeks, thanks to a cultural and inspirational trip to London with a couple of fellow writers, lots of things to see and do, and sharing of ideas and thoughts. Sometimes all it needs is a change of scenery to get the pen moving! The next column was written, submitted and printed, I've done six in total now and still enjoying the moment when I see what I have written in print, knowing that a wider audience will see it. It may only be a small thing, but its a good start! Writing magazine has also been a fountain of knowledge that I've been delving into over the last few weeks, finding plenty of useful tips and information, as well as the interviews with other authors, which I find helpful in my own writing and where I'm going.There is a free competition that I'm hoping to enter, and the plan is to finish the pieces over the next couple of days, ready to submit before the deadline. Competitions can be useful, as they usually have some kind of theme, sparking new ideas and at least giving a specific direction of where a piece needs to go, we will see if I can do it, but I'll certainly try, submitting to a deadline is something I will need to get used to for when the day comes that I have a publishing contract and an agent! In the words of a favourite author, I was a dreamer, but now I'm a doer and that day will come if I keep working at it.
So with my holiday fast approaching, (and I can't wait!) I already have my notebook packed, with an idea of a story floating around in my head, I hope being on location will only inspire me further as I discover the place behind the story, we will see!
Friday, 31 July 2015
July 2015
And so the month started much the same as the previous one ended. I started on some more short stories, varied ideas, spurred on by things seen around me. There is far less pressure now that I understand the format, and that each story does not need a definitive ending, or tell everything. Saying that, I have yet to finish any of them! But I have the whole summer ahead of me, with no choir or writers group, so I plan to work on some of my unfinished pieces, and hope that I'll at least complete one or two! This will then give me some more material for manuscript evenings when the term starts again. Attended the last manuscript evening and chose to read a new short story (that I actually finished so at least kept to what I said last month). This was after much doubting and under confidence in my work, so happy that I overcame that and received some lovely and constructive comments, and that's after all, what the group is for! I've been also trying to write more reviews on Goodreads each time I finish a book. Its a good practice of a different style of writing, and hopefully the authors will also get to see them!
I have now finished reading the Short Story workbook and found lots of useful tips and exercises to try out, so looking forward to experimenting with some other styles of writing. Part of me would love to do a proper writing course or a masters, but not having the funds available for either, believe that reading a variety of writing books can be just as beneficial. And who knows, maybe I'll get to go on one of those courses one day!
Just as the month started off well, it then slowed down a bit, frustratingly. I had a severe lack of confidence in my writing, and some days I drew a total blank. When I did try and write something, I thought it was rubbish and didn't like what I'd done, thinking it too simple and disjointed, losing the flow and the enthusiasm that I started with. I know that's what editing is for, but that wasn't going through my mind at the time! Inspiration is a bit like tiny flashes, which come and go. I start off all fired up with an idea and then everything seems to disappear for a bit, hence so many unfinished pieces. I've been questioning the reason as to why I even write or, if indeed I am a writer. Sometimes I don't think so, especially on the days when the words won't flow on the page. But the fact that I even have to ask and that I get so frustrated means its important to me, otherwise I'd just give up completely. Its better to scribble ideas, one line or a quote than force myself to carry on with something that my head's not in the right place for at the time. So therefore I have decided I'm an aspiring writer at present. So its been a rather slow month for large chunks of writing as I've been finding that I keep hitting a wall when I really want to write, and although there have been a few short bursts, not as much as I would like.
As I have neared the end of the month, there has been a slight shift, and in the positive direction! First I was inspired by one of my latest books, sparking lots of ideas and giving me the oomph back to get on with my writing. I've had a few days of annual leave, which I took especially to give me some more time to write. It was a bit slow to start with- the first day was taken up with jobs and appointments, even though I was feeling inspired by my book. The second day was one of fits and starts. Although surrounded by my notebooks, with so many started projects, it was hard to know where to start. I attempted to focus by staying in my room, away from the distractions of the TV and internet, but the house was almost too quiet and my mind once more blocked up. I did manage to start another birthday poem that I then finished a couple of days later, so at least it was something. I still have work to do on my writing space and working out what I need to keep me focused, a place where I know I can just disappear into my words on the page.
Although not sure if I can yet call myself a writer, I can definitely say that I am a reader. I spend as much time as I can (and sometimes when I know I should be writing) reading novels, magazines, biographies and useful books (note to self, don't forget poetry), glean what inspiration I can from them, whether that be a line, an idea or a quote, it all goes into my notebook for future reference. More recently these have also included what could be part of a story, such as a paragraph, so will be good to see where these can be fitted in, or maybe be a part of something new. That's how I'm not yet a writer in the full sense of the word, still in the very beginning stages as I have yet to find that place, both physically and mentally where I can sit and find my writing voice and the perseverance that goes with it. I may have lots of unfinished pieces, but at least I've started them. I'm tired of making excuses of why I'm not writing. The only thing that's stopping me is me.
With that in mind, the last few days have been very positive. I feel properly inspired for the first time in ages. A new story has been started, once more sparked from a novel that I'm currently reading. I can already visualise the characters so excited to see where they take me, and the journey seems to be currently going smoothly! Its about time that I learned to much more proactive. I've entered two pieces to a new online literary magazine, so will see in a few weeks if they have been accepted for publication in the first issue. If not, there's always future copies to be considered for. I have some kind of place for my writing, first this blog (so that's one checked off!) and then typing up the extra parts of my Cornwall story, adding to what I have already typed. I can see where I am with it, and what still needs work, and hopefully the spark of enthusiasm will come back. In the meantime I have my new story as well as another column to be working on, as well as a few other new ideas to explore. These include attempting to start an online page or magazine, where I can share thoughts and opinions as well as pieces of writing, inviting other writers to do the same. Its something I'm quite excited about, and hopefully I can report back next month as to how that's progressing. I've also started a daily post on my Facebook page of photos- small moments from each day- some that have inspired me, and some that I just like!
And so after a month of really struggling, as I reach the end of it, I'm once more inspired and keenly writing, long may it continue!
' Believe with all your heart that you will do what you are made to do'
I have now finished reading the Short Story workbook and found lots of useful tips and exercises to try out, so looking forward to experimenting with some other styles of writing. Part of me would love to do a proper writing course or a masters, but not having the funds available for either, believe that reading a variety of writing books can be just as beneficial. And who knows, maybe I'll get to go on one of those courses one day!
Just as the month started off well, it then slowed down a bit, frustratingly. I had a severe lack of confidence in my writing, and some days I drew a total blank. When I did try and write something, I thought it was rubbish and didn't like what I'd done, thinking it too simple and disjointed, losing the flow and the enthusiasm that I started with. I know that's what editing is for, but that wasn't going through my mind at the time! Inspiration is a bit like tiny flashes, which come and go. I start off all fired up with an idea and then everything seems to disappear for a bit, hence so many unfinished pieces. I've been questioning the reason as to why I even write or, if indeed I am a writer. Sometimes I don't think so, especially on the days when the words won't flow on the page. But the fact that I even have to ask and that I get so frustrated means its important to me, otherwise I'd just give up completely. Its better to scribble ideas, one line or a quote than force myself to carry on with something that my head's not in the right place for at the time. So therefore I have decided I'm an aspiring writer at present. So its been a rather slow month for large chunks of writing as I've been finding that I keep hitting a wall when I really want to write, and although there have been a few short bursts, not as much as I would like.
As I have neared the end of the month, there has been a slight shift, and in the positive direction! First I was inspired by one of my latest books, sparking lots of ideas and giving me the oomph back to get on with my writing. I've had a few days of annual leave, which I took especially to give me some more time to write. It was a bit slow to start with- the first day was taken up with jobs and appointments, even though I was feeling inspired by my book. The second day was one of fits and starts. Although surrounded by my notebooks, with so many started projects, it was hard to know where to start. I attempted to focus by staying in my room, away from the distractions of the TV and internet, but the house was almost too quiet and my mind once more blocked up. I did manage to start another birthday poem that I then finished a couple of days later, so at least it was something. I still have work to do on my writing space and working out what I need to keep me focused, a place where I know I can just disappear into my words on the page.
Although not sure if I can yet call myself a writer, I can definitely say that I am a reader. I spend as much time as I can (and sometimes when I know I should be writing) reading novels, magazines, biographies and useful books (note to self, don't forget poetry), glean what inspiration I can from them, whether that be a line, an idea or a quote, it all goes into my notebook for future reference. More recently these have also included what could be part of a story, such as a paragraph, so will be good to see where these can be fitted in, or maybe be a part of something new. That's how I'm not yet a writer in the full sense of the word, still in the very beginning stages as I have yet to find that place, both physically and mentally where I can sit and find my writing voice and the perseverance that goes with it. I may have lots of unfinished pieces, but at least I've started them. I'm tired of making excuses of why I'm not writing. The only thing that's stopping me is me.
With that in mind, the last few days have been very positive. I feel properly inspired for the first time in ages. A new story has been started, once more sparked from a novel that I'm currently reading. I can already visualise the characters so excited to see where they take me, and the journey seems to be currently going smoothly! Its about time that I learned to much more proactive. I've entered two pieces to a new online literary magazine, so will see in a few weeks if they have been accepted for publication in the first issue. If not, there's always future copies to be considered for. I have some kind of place for my writing, first this blog (so that's one checked off!) and then typing up the extra parts of my Cornwall story, adding to what I have already typed. I can see where I am with it, and what still needs work, and hopefully the spark of enthusiasm will come back. In the meantime I have my new story as well as another column to be working on, as well as a few other new ideas to explore. These include attempting to start an online page or magazine, where I can share thoughts and opinions as well as pieces of writing, inviting other writers to do the same. Its something I'm quite excited about, and hopefully I can report back next month as to how that's progressing. I've also started a daily post on my Facebook page of photos- small moments from each day- some that have inspired me, and some that I just like!
And so after a month of really struggling, as I reach the end of it, I'm once more inspired and keenly writing, long may it continue!
' Believe with all your heart that you will do what you are made to do'
Tuesday, 30 June 2015
June 2015
When I had a very slow start to the month, I thought that was a sign of how the rest of the time would go, but oh how wrong I was (glad to say!) Lots of notes for this months blog, so here goes...
Like I said, a slow start, with a good day when I wrote more on my Cornwall story, followed by not much at all for a couple of frustrating days. I had an idea for the start of a new story, but then felt that my vision was obscured and I got upset and very frustrated at feeling that I was not able to write anything, almost trying to hard and then not liking the result. It really showed me that you can't write every day if it isn't there, but that its okay, and I shouldn't beat myself up for it (although easier said than done!). Thankfully that didn't last for the whole month. Real life does though have a habit of getting in the way, or is it that I let it? I always seem to be making excuses not to write, instead of using life to help me write. I don't seem to have time at the weekends to do much, there are always jobs to do around the house, and places to visit, things that I can't do in the week (when I'm at work). That's why it's more important that I use the lunch breaks and free evenings as much as I can (and am getting better at making more time.) Saying that, a lot of this month has also been taken up with singing- extra rehearsals and a concert as well as meeting up with various people. It hasn't left as much time as I would have liked despite my best efforts, but I have to just accept that its the way things go sometimes, as long as I don't use it as too much of an excuse!
Started on a few new story ideas ( 3 in one week, got to be a first!) Funny how the thoughts come at random times, and then I'm in a hurry to remember them before I scribble them down somewhere. Mostly things pop into my head when I'm driving or in the shower, but usually when I've just turned off my light to go to sleep, annoyingly! Saying that, better to get something down rather than being kept awake by the words swimming round in my head. You just have to go with it when the inspiration hits. Its given me lots to keep busy with, and hopefully not feel too stuck on just one thing. Sometimes it can just be a small idea, a sentence or two, or maybe a paragraph, but its all good as once that seed is sown, who knows how it will grow, and at least I'm writing.
Managed to get to one Writers Group meeting this month, but came away feeling very inspired, as always. Decided to read this time as I haven't done in a while and so glad I did. Not only did it show that I was feeling a bit more confident in my writing, but it also gave me lots of positive feedback and thoughts as to what I do next. Looking over my Cornwall story, there are lots of new parts I've written, expanding on the original story, so its now a case to trying to fit things in, and that is much easier said than done. The story in its current state is so different from my original plan, but that's not necessarily a bad thing. I just need to put it all together and see where it is going before I get lost. Is it a novel?? I'm still not sure. I don't know if I have that many words in me. But I will keep writing until I feel it is finished, however long that takes, but not put the pressure on myself that it has to be a novel. I think that's the best way to be, and then I can be pleasantly surprised by the end result!
I've also started thinking and reviewing all the the many stories that I have seem to have started, but not a lot are finished! Where are they going and how long will they be? Logically, I believe they will be short stories so now I need to decide what to include and what to leave out, and actually finish one or two! That is going to be my project and aim for the next month, so the next time that I write this, I can say that I finally have some finished work (as well as other things to read at Writers Group), so wish me luck!! I've just bought a Short Story Handbook, so hopefully that will set me going in the right direction and give me lots of useful tips. I've also given in to the latest craze and bought a couple of the adult colouring books, so hope they prove to be helpful rather than just another distraction! Bought quite a few new novels too, just can't resist a new book! Plenty on the to be read pile now....
I've been trying to read a variety of authors and styles, as well as subject in order to keep my mind open and opinions broad. I'm also a strong believer that you need to read a lot in order to become a better writer, or so I keep telling myself anyway! I can read a book and feel inspired too, often gathering ideas from what I've read, so its never a waste of time in my eyes. And I'm trying my hand at writing reviews of books on the Goodreads website, to pass onto others as well as determine what it is about a book that's inspired me. I've tried to find other things too that I hope will help to inspire me. I've signed up to two more Future Learn courses, both starting in September. One is about Wordsworth, which will give me an insight into the mind of a well loved poet and his words as well as hopefully get me writing more poetry as that as fallen by the wayside since I got more involved in my many stories. The other course is all about mindfulness, the plan being that it will get me thinking better and more positively about my life, including my writing (as well as giving me more information for a story that I've started).
So as another month draws to a close, I have lots to think about and work on, Another column has been written and submitted (to come out next week), with a few future ideas already scribbled down. (At least that is a piece that I can finish!) I look forward to sharing more of my writing journey with in a few weeks time.....
Like I said, a slow start, with a good day when I wrote more on my Cornwall story, followed by not much at all for a couple of frustrating days. I had an idea for the start of a new story, but then felt that my vision was obscured and I got upset and very frustrated at feeling that I was not able to write anything, almost trying to hard and then not liking the result. It really showed me that you can't write every day if it isn't there, but that its okay, and I shouldn't beat myself up for it (although easier said than done!). Thankfully that didn't last for the whole month. Real life does though have a habit of getting in the way, or is it that I let it? I always seem to be making excuses not to write, instead of using life to help me write. I don't seem to have time at the weekends to do much, there are always jobs to do around the house, and places to visit, things that I can't do in the week (when I'm at work). That's why it's more important that I use the lunch breaks and free evenings as much as I can (and am getting better at making more time.) Saying that, a lot of this month has also been taken up with singing- extra rehearsals and a concert as well as meeting up with various people. It hasn't left as much time as I would have liked despite my best efforts, but I have to just accept that its the way things go sometimes, as long as I don't use it as too much of an excuse!
Started on a few new story ideas ( 3 in one week, got to be a first!) Funny how the thoughts come at random times, and then I'm in a hurry to remember them before I scribble them down somewhere. Mostly things pop into my head when I'm driving or in the shower, but usually when I've just turned off my light to go to sleep, annoyingly! Saying that, better to get something down rather than being kept awake by the words swimming round in my head. You just have to go with it when the inspiration hits. Its given me lots to keep busy with, and hopefully not feel too stuck on just one thing. Sometimes it can just be a small idea, a sentence or two, or maybe a paragraph, but its all good as once that seed is sown, who knows how it will grow, and at least I'm writing.
Managed to get to one Writers Group meeting this month, but came away feeling very inspired, as always. Decided to read this time as I haven't done in a while and so glad I did. Not only did it show that I was feeling a bit more confident in my writing, but it also gave me lots of positive feedback and thoughts as to what I do next. Looking over my Cornwall story, there are lots of new parts I've written, expanding on the original story, so its now a case to trying to fit things in, and that is much easier said than done. The story in its current state is so different from my original plan, but that's not necessarily a bad thing. I just need to put it all together and see where it is going before I get lost. Is it a novel?? I'm still not sure. I don't know if I have that many words in me. But I will keep writing until I feel it is finished, however long that takes, but not put the pressure on myself that it has to be a novel. I think that's the best way to be, and then I can be pleasantly surprised by the end result!
I've also started thinking and reviewing all the the many stories that I have seem to have started, but not a lot are finished! Where are they going and how long will they be? Logically, I believe they will be short stories so now I need to decide what to include and what to leave out, and actually finish one or two! That is going to be my project and aim for the next month, so the next time that I write this, I can say that I finally have some finished work (as well as other things to read at Writers Group), so wish me luck!! I've just bought a Short Story Handbook, so hopefully that will set me going in the right direction and give me lots of useful tips. I've also given in to the latest craze and bought a couple of the adult colouring books, so hope they prove to be helpful rather than just another distraction! Bought quite a few new novels too, just can't resist a new book! Plenty on the to be read pile now....
I've been trying to read a variety of authors and styles, as well as subject in order to keep my mind open and opinions broad. I'm also a strong believer that you need to read a lot in order to become a better writer, or so I keep telling myself anyway! I can read a book and feel inspired too, often gathering ideas from what I've read, so its never a waste of time in my eyes. And I'm trying my hand at writing reviews of books on the Goodreads website, to pass onto others as well as determine what it is about a book that's inspired me. I've tried to find other things too that I hope will help to inspire me. I've signed up to two more Future Learn courses, both starting in September. One is about Wordsworth, which will give me an insight into the mind of a well loved poet and his words as well as hopefully get me writing more poetry as that as fallen by the wayside since I got more involved in my many stories. The other course is all about mindfulness, the plan being that it will get me thinking better and more positively about my life, including my writing (as well as giving me more information for a story that I've started).
So as another month draws to a close, I have lots to think about and work on, Another column has been written and submitted (to come out next week), with a few future ideas already scribbled down. (At least that is a piece that I can finish!) I look forward to sharing more of my writing journey with in a few weeks time.....
Sunday, 31 May 2015
May 2015
Where is this year going? I can't believe that we're already at the end of May and the summer is nearly upon us. It has been an interesting month, with plenty of writing done! It started with a new story idea, inspired by a picture of a house online, and lots of watching Location! It features the restoration of a Victorian house and I plan to base it somewhere in London (I feel a visit coming on, for research purposes obviously!) I've started writing the story and planning the characters so looking forward to seeing where it goes.
I often wonder once I get the initial inspiration how my ideas take the shape that they do. Some are similar and different, sometimes I think they are an accumulation of dreams and the many different people stuck inside me, aspirations or something else? Its a big question, and one with many answers depending on each writer, but where does inspiration really come from?? Its something I'm still trying to discover for myself.
You may remember that I was on holiday at the start of the month, and given that it was in the beautiful Lake District I was looking forward to feeling inspired and coming home with lots of new ideas, but this didn't end up being the case, disappointingly. No notes or writing done the whole time, in the wrong mind set I suppose and too busy walking to really take the time out to sit and think. But something positive did come out of it, in that I'm fired up to find more time to write and have booked some time off to do just that, I can't wait! It will give me chance to visit and revisit all the places in my head and really focus. I sat in the library the other day and surprised myself with how many scribbled ideas I came away with after just an hour! Just watching the people around me and keeping my mind open seemed to work well, taking ideas from conversations, images from other stories and lines in books, its amazing what you can come up with.
In terms of other writing projects that I've been working on, my next column was submitted and came out this week, so have to start thinking of some more ideas for the next one! I've also gone back to some of my older stories and found new inspiration of where I can take them, Its been a really positive exercise and one that will be on going. I found it had been better to leave them, and then come back after a time, but not forget them. This has also been the case on my could be novel, my Cornwall story. Having left it for a while and work on new and old projects, I've come back to it again in the last week or so and have been really pleased with how much I've achieved on it so far. I believe its important to not just focus on one thing as a new writer, I've found you just hit a wall and really feel stuck, which is when your good writing disappears. I've certainly found it a huge positive to have lots of different ideas and things on the go, my writing is much better for it too! Still being a novice to my creativity, I'm writing because I need to, whether or not it comes to be considered to be anything in the eyes of the world, Maybe that day will come sometime in the future, but for now I'm doing it for the work itself and the feeling of creativity and inspiration it gives me. Maybe this is the place I can start to share things, when I feel ready and see what happens?!
So to round off the month, I just want to share with you how important it is when you are starting out as a writer to make sure that you surround yourself with like minded people. Joining the writers group has to be one of the best decisions I have made in the last year or so. I get to share my works in progress with them and receive useful feedback, as well as the meetings providing me with lots of new ideas and things to remember. Just last night I went to an Open Mic night with some of my fellow group members, meeting with other local writers groups and hearing such a variety of pieces, it was a very inspiring way to spend an evening, plus I won a book token! It did help that the meeting took place in a bookshop,,,, So if like me, you feel the need to free some of the creativity within you, don't be scared to take that first step, there's an amazing world of words just waiting out there for you to come and find!
I often wonder once I get the initial inspiration how my ideas take the shape that they do. Some are similar and different, sometimes I think they are an accumulation of dreams and the many different people stuck inside me, aspirations or something else? Its a big question, and one with many answers depending on each writer, but where does inspiration really come from?? Its something I'm still trying to discover for myself.
You may remember that I was on holiday at the start of the month, and given that it was in the beautiful Lake District I was looking forward to feeling inspired and coming home with lots of new ideas, but this didn't end up being the case, disappointingly. No notes or writing done the whole time, in the wrong mind set I suppose and too busy walking to really take the time out to sit and think. But something positive did come out of it, in that I'm fired up to find more time to write and have booked some time off to do just that, I can't wait! It will give me chance to visit and revisit all the places in my head and really focus. I sat in the library the other day and surprised myself with how many scribbled ideas I came away with after just an hour! Just watching the people around me and keeping my mind open seemed to work well, taking ideas from conversations, images from other stories and lines in books, its amazing what you can come up with.
In terms of other writing projects that I've been working on, my next column was submitted and came out this week, so have to start thinking of some more ideas for the next one! I've also gone back to some of my older stories and found new inspiration of where I can take them, Its been a really positive exercise and one that will be on going. I found it had been better to leave them, and then come back after a time, but not forget them. This has also been the case on my could be novel, my Cornwall story. Having left it for a while and work on new and old projects, I've come back to it again in the last week or so and have been really pleased with how much I've achieved on it so far. I believe its important to not just focus on one thing as a new writer, I've found you just hit a wall and really feel stuck, which is when your good writing disappears. I've certainly found it a huge positive to have lots of different ideas and things on the go, my writing is much better for it too! Still being a novice to my creativity, I'm writing because I need to, whether or not it comes to be considered to be anything in the eyes of the world, Maybe that day will come sometime in the future, but for now I'm doing it for the work itself and the feeling of creativity and inspiration it gives me. Maybe this is the place I can start to share things, when I feel ready and see what happens?!
So to round off the month, I just want to share with you how important it is when you are starting out as a writer to make sure that you surround yourself with like minded people. Joining the writers group has to be one of the best decisions I have made in the last year or so. I get to share my works in progress with them and receive useful feedback, as well as the meetings providing me with lots of new ideas and things to remember. Just last night I went to an Open Mic night with some of my fellow group members, meeting with other local writers groups and hearing such a variety of pieces, it was a very inspiring way to spend an evening, plus I won a book token! It did help that the meeting took place in a bookshop,,,, So if like me, you feel the need to free some of the creativity within you, don't be scared to take that first step, there's an amazing world of words just waiting out there for you to come and find!
Sunday, 26 April 2015
April 2015
'The world is but a canvas to our imagination'
And so we near the end of another month, this year is certainly rushing by! Its funny looking back over the last few weeks, thinking that I haven't done very much, when in actual fact, I've done more than I thought! I've found that I seem to write in fits and starts and although I attempt to do something everyday, sometimes it will only be a short paragraph and other days I can write lots and am really inspired. I get do distracted that's my problem, what with social media or pinning, it becomes addictive, or just generally letting life get in the way! I guess the best way is to find a time that suits me to sit and write, and get the balance of everything else right. I'm still working on it!
I've tried to spend some time reading too, not just novels, but also helpful books. I'm currently halfway through Stephen King's 'On Writing' and it is certainly an interesting read, including some good and useful tips for aspiring writers, I like the way he writes about his own writing journey, it is definitely inspiring. I've read a number of different books this month, for a variety of reasons. One was an autobiography of someone starting a new life in Cornwall, so I've used that to inspire parts of my own story and research into the local areas. Others have been purely for the chance to escape, isn't that why most of us pick a book up? Each has been different, some chick lit and others more contemporary fiction, but each have inspired me in different ways. The 'To be read' pile is increasing with the purchase of some new titles, so I'm excited to explore yet more new worlds before I go to sleep. In order to better research my Oxford story and another based around a vintage shop, I've bought new books and am working my way through, taking notes. Research is an important part of the process, and the need to make sure things are correct.
I've started a couple of new story ideas, which I'm looking forward to exploring further. I've found that most of the ideas I have are based on either my own personal feelings or a kind of dream world, someone else that I would rather be, but it seems as good a place as any to start. I'm keen to also start thinking of ideas that sit out of my comfort zone, see how far I can push myself. This has been especially prevalent with my poetry recently. Last week, at Writers Group, I decided not to read anything as felt that what I had brought with me was too simple and personal and not good enough, As a writer, I believe there will always be days like that, that's what rewriting is for! That's what got me thinking about trying some different ideas, see how I get on, so I will keep you updated!
I'm still working on trying to find my own writing space and time that works best for me. I have a desk at home (currently sitting at it to write this), but don't always find that it does the job. I seem to get inspiration and ideas at the most inconvenient times, like when I'm driving or in the shower, and scribbling is not an option. I try and get down as much as I can following these moments, but then find when I do have the time to sit and write, nothing comes and I feel flat or like I've hit a wall. I guess I still have to work on it! I've created an inspiration board next to my desk as well as sticking pictures in my notebooks to help spark something for the stories that I'm already working on, and this has proved to be a useful tool.
My latest column was published in the middle of the month and I've already started working on the next- with one less person on the rota, I seem to be submitting at least once a month now, but keeps me on my toes and good practice to be working to a deadline, just hope the ideas don't start to run dry. And finally, another useful tool that I've discovered this month is a website called 'Novelicious' and I love it! Its a women's fiction blog for both readers and writers, with lots of useful tips, inspiration and articles, I thoroughly recommend it!
So that's all for this month. Off on hols in a week, and I can't wait! I'm in need of a break and who knows what stories and poems will be stirred up, we will see....
P.S. A few pictures below, wanted to share with you some of the writing spaces that I have been using, whether at my desk, sitting out in the sun, or in the library at work! I thought you would also like to see my latest column, its so inspiring to see yourself in print, however small the publication!
And so we near the end of another month, this year is certainly rushing by! Its funny looking back over the last few weeks, thinking that I haven't done very much, when in actual fact, I've done more than I thought! I've found that I seem to write in fits and starts and although I attempt to do something everyday, sometimes it will only be a short paragraph and other days I can write lots and am really inspired. I get do distracted that's my problem, what with social media or pinning, it becomes addictive, or just generally letting life get in the way! I guess the best way is to find a time that suits me to sit and write, and get the balance of everything else right. I'm still working on it!
I've tried to spend some time reading too, not just novels, but also helpful books. I'm currently halfway through Stephen King's 'On Writing' and it is certainly an interesting read, including some good and useful tips for aspiring writers, I like the way he writes about his own writing journey, it is definitely inspiring. I've read a number of different books this month, for a variety of reasons. One was an autobiography of someone starting a new life in Cornwall, so I've used that to inspire parts of my own story and research into the local areas. Others have been purely for the chance to escape, isn't that why most of us pick a book up? Each has been different, some chick lit and others more contemporary fiction, but each have inspired me in different ways. The 'To be read' pile is increasing with the purchase of some new titles, so I'm excited to explore yet more new worlds before I go to sleep. In order to better research my Oxford story and another based around a vintage shop, I've bought new books and am working my way through, taking notes. Research is an important part of the process, and the need to make sure things are correct.
I've started a couple of new story ideas, which I'm looking forward to exploring further. I've found that most of the ideas I have are based on either my own personal feelings or a kind of dream world, someone else that I would rather be, but it seems as good a place as any to start. I'm keen to also start thinking of ideas that sit out of my comfort zone, see how far I can push myself. This has been especially prevalent with my poetry recently. Last week, at Writers Group, I decided not to read anything as felt that what I had brought with me was too simple and personal and not good enough, As a writer, I believe there will always be days like that, that's what rewriting is for! That's what got me thinking about trying some different ideas, see how I get on, so I will keep you updated!
I'm still working on trying to find my own writing space and time that works best for me. I have a desk at home (currently sitting at it to write this), but don't always find that it does the job. I seem to get inspiration and ideas at the most inconvenient times, like when I'm driving or in the shower, and scribbling is not an option. I try and get down as much as I can following these moments, but then find when I do have the time to sit and write, nothing comes and I feel flat or like I've hit a wall. I guess I still have to work on it! I've created an inspiration board next to my desk as well as sticking pictures in my notebooks to help spark something for the stories that I'm already working on, and this has proved to be a useful tool.
My latest column was published in the middle of the month and I've already started working on the next- with one less person on the rota, I seem to be submitting at least once a month now, but keeps me on my toes and good practice to be working to a deadline, just hope the ideas don't start to run dry. And finally, another useful tool that I've discovered this month is a website called 'Novelicious' and I love it! Its a women's fiction blog for both readers and writers, with lots of useful tips, inspiration and articles, I thoroughly recommend it!
So that's all for this month. Off on hols in a week, and I can't wait! I'm in need of a break and who knows what stories and poems will be stirred up, we will see....
P.S. A few pictures below, wanted to share with you some of the writing spaces that I have been using, whether at my desk, sitting out in the sun, or in the library at work! I thought you would also like to see my latest column, its so inspiring to see yourself in print, however small the publication!
Tuesday, 31 March 2015
March 2015
Another busy month! The weekend away at the end of February sparked some new ideas for poems on the car journey down, so very refreshing! Started an idea for a story based on one of the girls and well as notes for my poem postcards. All my friends asked about how my writing was going and that was certainly a huge confidence boost. Got me off to a good start for the month too.
I've taken the decision to try and focus my lunch breaks at work on writing, therefore the book now stays at home! It seems to be working well and I enjoy the time to try and separate myself from the work worries. I've now typed up how far I've got with both my Cornwall and Oxford stories, and it's meant that I know where I am and can now plan where I go next. New research as well as positive feedback from two manuscript evenings for Writers Group have sparked inspiration and visiting the Oxford Literary Festival last week was just as useful! Both myself and my sister made visits to Oxford colleges in order to research our stories more and get a feel for where they are set, mine in Balliol and hers in Hertford, and they were very beneficial visits, so just need to put some of that inspiration down on paper now, can't wait! Writers Group has been influential in getting me going again, when I was just starting to hit a bit of a wall and get stuck. One idea offered was a writing task on the cottage in Cornwall, to get down on paper all the visions in my head, even the smallest details, its certainly been a very useful exercise, and look forward to putting parts into my story. I've also started character profiles and planning maps for both the stories, before I get too carried away and it again has been very useful. A few of the members also commented that based on what they'd already heard of my Cornwall story, that it could be a novel. I'd never really thought of it like that, it started out as a short story, but who knows? Certainly another boost to the confidence at least!
That's what been the most interesting part, when I look back on my original idea and where the stories started, they've already changed so much and I'm still yet to find out where they are going, it's certainly an exciting journey so far, and I'm looking forward to what lies ahead.
I also took some time to type up all the poems I'd started in my notebook, and was surprised with how many were actually in there! I've scribbled a few new ones recently too, and it was good to go back to where I started, as I've been so distracted with stories recently. I've also had my most recent column published as well as working on and finishing the next one, so always something to work on! So that's about all for this month, and I shall expect more of the same in the next four weeks, just happy so long as I'm writing!
I've taken the decision to try and focus my lunch breaks at work on writing, therefore the book now stays at home! It seems to be working well and I enjoy the time to try and separate myself from the work worries. I've now typed up how far I've got with both my Cornwall and Oxford stories, and it's meant that I know where I am and can now plan where I go next. New research as well as positive feedback from two manuscript evenings for Writers Group have sparked inspiration and visiting the Oxford Literary Festival last week was just as useful! Both myself and my sister made visits to Oxford colleges in order to research our stories more and get a feel for where they are set, mine in Balliol and hers in Hertford, and they were very beneficial visits, so just need to put some of that inspiration down on paper now, can't wait! Writers Group has been influential in getting me going again, when I was just starting to hit a bit of a wall and get stuck. One idea offered was a writing task on the cottage in Cornwall, to get down on paper all the visions in my head, even the smallest details, its certainly been a very useful exercise, and look forward to putting parts into my story. I've also started character profiles and planning maps for both the stories, before I get too carried away and it again has been very useful. A few of the members also commented that based on what they'd already heard of my Cornwall story, that it could be a novel. I'd never really thought of it like that, it started out as a short story, but who knows? Certainly another boost to the confidence at least!
That's what been the most interesting part, when I look back on my original idea and where the stories started, they've already changed so much and I'm still yet to find out where they are going, it's certainly an exciting journey so far, and I'm looking forward to what lies ahead.
I also took some time to type up all the poems I'd started in my notebook, and was surprised with how many were actually in there! I've scribbled a few new ones recently too, and it was good to go back to where I started, as I've been so distracted with stories recently. I've also had my most recent column published as well as working on and finishing the next one, so always something to work on! So that's about all for this month, and I shall expect more of the same in the next four weeks, just happy so long as I'm writing!
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