I never expected writing a book would be easy, but neither did I anticipate it being quite the long-winded process it has been. I can only shake my head in disbelief when I read or hear of people knocking off their latest book in a matter of a few months – weeks even in some cases. Do these people not sleep? Or cook, clean, weed the garden or go grocery shopping? Do they not have other interests, have coffee with friends, read, play music, or even take time out to write as a job to earn money?
I’ve had to come to terms with the fact I’m a slow writer. And a perfectionist. I’m aware all writers approach the craft in various ways, and mine is decidedly not the one that dashes off a piece of writing with little or no concern for grammar, punctuation or even coherent sentences. I have to get the words right to my own satisfaction before I can move on – and even then there might be multiple re-reads of a section with more tweaks before I’m satisfied. I totally get the writer – and I can’t remember who it was – that could agonise for hours over the placement of a comma. I don’t think I’m quite that bad, but it’s undeniably frustrating words don’t flow out as perfectly as I feel they should do.
But the end is finally close, with an estimated three chapters to go, one of which is already well underway. I’ve had to keep re-setting deadlines but this time, I really do believe I can write The End before the end of November arrives. I need to hold myself to this given that by mid- to late November produce will be starting to ripen once again, and harvesting will also need to be factored in to already crowded days.
Here's hoping the 5am starts will assist - and my optimism isn't misplaced!
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