It's time for the December (holy cow!) Insecure Writer's Support Group post.
Created by Alex J. Cavanaugh, the IWSG exists so writers can get and give support about their insecurities. Anyone can join. Simply click on Alex's name and put your blog on the linky list, then hop around to visit your fellow IWSG'ers.
This month's co-hosts are PJ Colando, Diane Burton, Louise – Fundy Blue, Natalie Aguirre, and Jacqui Murray!
The optional question this month is "In your writing, what stresses you the most? What delights you?"
Editing probably stresses me out the most. Not so much line editing, but content editing and trying to tweak it to be better. I love the first draft, because I can just free flow my writing and write whatever comes out. The stress comes in reeling that in.
Speaking of which, my craft novel on the business of short stories is out to beta readers right this second, with today being the day I've asked them to get their comments back to me. As I posted on Facebook, it's nerve-wracking and exciting at the same time. The first ones that have come in have been encouraging, so that's good.
Keeping it brief today, so I'm going directly to my submission stats for November. Doing this each month keeps me on my toes.
8 submissions
9 rejections
1 story withdrawn with an assumption that it's rejected
1 story published
18 stories on submission, with several needing to be turned around
In terms of my ShaNoShoStoWriEdSubMo goals, I met the word goals for the current craft novel and completed it. However, I was too eager to get to initial edits, so didn't bother with the short story writing goals. With two appearances scheduled in mid-January, I'm trying to figure out how realistic it would be to move up my timeline on the craft novel release. If it isn't reasonable, I'll at least need to have some shwag available to get it out there since I have a signing mixed in there.
Did you meet your NaNo or other monthly goals in November? What are your insecurities? What stresses you out about writing? Did you submit anything this month?
May you find your Muse.
31 comments:
Right now querying is my stress inducer. But I'm going to hold off until after the holidays in sending any more, so I get a break. Hoping you get great feedback on your craft book.
Hi Shannon - well done on getting your book out to beta-readers ... but how encouraging to get supportive comments back - good luck ... cheers Hilary
That's great you are getting response back today. There are so many who write short stories that your book will be such a help to those writers.
Great job! I'm so impressed with your short story writing and submitting!!! Your craft book will be excellent!
Always sweet when the responses are positive. I admire all your efforts. Wishing you the merriest and healthiest Holiday Season ever!
Beta readers are essential, but it is a stressful experience: sending that manuscript to them, waiting for the reply, getting the critique.
Always the push to have something to hand out at appearances!
Oh yes, you can never tell what the betas are going to say. Hopefully helpful things!
I'm the opposite of you. The first draft stresses me, but I love revising. Hope your beta readers have good feedback for you.
I'll second Natalie Aguirre. I love editing and rewriting. The first draft is always a challenge for me.
I love drafting too... when it's going well. I'm either on a hot streak or totally dried up, so it's a very up-and-down experience.
Querying is definitely stressful. Taking a break for the holidays sounds like a good idea.
The comments have been wonderful, so far, with lots of great suggestions.
I truly hope so.
Thank you!
I can definitely understand that. I was going to do the same, but couldn't help but open them as they started to come in.
Truth. Every word. It's hard, but vital.
Definitely! Which means I need the cover done ASAP, even if the book isn't ready.
So far, they're very helpful!
You and Alex! While I do like the simple pen and paper edit, it's those big story edits that I find rough.
I always find it so interesting how much we all differ in the same field. This and pantsing vs. plotting always make for good conversations.
I can understand that. It feels so good when the words are flowing.
I like drafting. Can't say quite about editing though. You're doing a lot of writing which is great.
I don't do NaNo, too much stress. Congrats to all who added words to their WIP. Congrats on your story acceptance.
You are inspiring, Shannon, because you keep at it and have lots in the works! Your craft books sound intriguing. Wishing you lots of success as you juggle everything! Take care!
I'm always impressed by how goal oriented you are. It's definitely something to emulate. Congratulations on getting your book out to beta readers.
I admire people who can survive the querying process. Good luck on your craft book and your submissions. Thanks for visiting my blog.
Editing is definitely not my favorite. I'm currently avoiding it by being on here.
Thank you! I don't do regular NaNo, but it's a good way to jump on the energy train.
Thank you!
I appreciate that, thank you!
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