Help Zette...

Proof pages for TKQ

I finished going through the proof pages - what I call the final copies of my manuscript file that's set up for the targeted publisher - for TKQ. TKQ turns out to be the first book of four that take place in same world with same characters. By far, not the last of the world, as more characters take over at the fifth book. There's also a few good candidates for before book one.

Anywho, now I'll be putting into the computer file the few corrections I found, and preparing the synopsis and book jacket for the submission. I have an extended synopsis already - never could get that sucker down to one or two pages. I'm going to use Holly Lisle's techniques this time and see if I have better luck at getting it to the right length.

I'm confident that the synopsis will come through well. I've already worked on a few non-related book synopsis and those ended up as one page easy.

Hopefully, this book will be out to the publisher at the end of the week. Then, it's wait patiently for the next 2-6 months to hear as to whether they will buy it or not.

Creating the Writer's Life

Being a writer among non-writers is not easy. In most instances, the writer does not have the person space and freedom to pursue the writing career right at the start. Often times, there are small children involved, or a small house set up.

This can be overcome, however.

The writer must set down the ground rules for the family. Allow time to be with the family, spend time with the kids, but also block off times of the day for writing. Some writers overcome this hurdle by choosing to write before other members of the family rise in the morning or after they go to bed.

Non-writers do not understand this need. Nor do they like it. Kids want attention when they want it, not on anyone else's schedule. Spouses are tolerant, sometimes to say the least. And this will not change. Well, with some it'll change when the paychecks come in or with the notoriety that comes with being married to a professional writer.

Once a writer reaches this point (actually before, if possible), the need for one's own writing space and time is crucial.

First, write down your goals as a writer. Make a list of the tasks needed to reach those goals. Mark how long it will take to complete those tasks.

Make it realistic. Allow yourself extra time in there to deal with unplanned instances. Then take those figures and see how much time you'd need to make those accomplishments.

If you're not working a full-time job and don't have kids, being able to write 8 hours a day is realistic. If you have a full-time job and kids, you will have to cut this down dramatically.

And then sit with your family and explain the situation to them. Let them know your times that are reserved for your writing, and ask them to respect your space and needs. They'd certainly would ask the same of you for their needs and wants, so don't be afraid to stand up for yourself. At this point, you will also want to explain to any other family members and friends that you are not to be interrupted at these times.

Even with a busy life, a writer needs to get into the routine of writing. This not only includes the self-control to write at the allotted times, but also the writer must nourish the mind.

Health is a big factor. Pay attention to your heart, weight, and other areas. Be as healthy as you can. Take your vitamins regularly. Drink plenty of water. Keep a glass of tea or water available to wet your throat as you write.

Exercise. Whether it's a nice leisurely stroll in the morning, aerobics, dance, or serious weight training, get that blood flowing. Keep your brain and muscles supplied with fresh oxygen. Sitting for hours at your writing table or computer can wreak havoc on the circulation.

Clear your mind of troubles. You don't want to be thinking about the creditors, the broken washer, the mounting hospital bills for a sick family member, or the ailing friend while you're writing. Unless you're writing about those topics, of course.

Guilt often keeps the writer from having a clear mind. If someone we care about is suffering, we feel guilty at pushing that aside for a few hours. Clearing your mind does not mean you forget those you love. In fact, doing this often helps you when you do have to return to the trouble at hand.

Everyone has their own method of clearing their minds. The exercise can do it for some. A morning coffee or tea while watching the sunrise is refreshing. Meditation and/or yoga helps many. Find what works for you and do it. Sometimes playing a mindless puzzle game on the internet for a few moments helps reset the mind.

Limit your indulgences. This doesn't only refer to sweets, but to other things also. Don't drink gallons of pop or stuff a whole box of truffles into your mouth as you write - that's not healthy. Don't miss your writing time by spending hours on civilization games or role-playing games and try to pawn it off as world-building research.

A clue: even non-writers know that's a tall tale.

Create your atmosphere. Yes, I know. Not every writer has a desk all to themselves or an office. But you can find a place that's comfortable to you and create with medium your comfortable with be it a pc or pen and paper. If you're more comfortable creating the first draft with pen and paper, by all means do so. It doesn't mean you’re archaic. You really don't have to have that perfect printed draft until it's ready to go to the marketplace you're working towards.

Sound is important to your atmosphere. If barking dogs disrupt you, don't have your writing area at the window next to the neighbor's dog. This goes if kids bother you. A window on the side of the house facing the neighbor's yard when kids are playing isn't a good spot either. If you need library silence, then create the atmosphere that gives that. Or go work at the library.

Music is the most used sound element in a writing atmosphere. Different writers are motivated by different music. If opera spurs your mind to kick out the next best-seller, by all means play it. Same with any other like country, rock, Celtic, new-age, inspirational, rap, etc. If you're in a small space of your house, use headphones. This is also great for blocking out noises of family life if you can't get out of range to create.

Plan your space and routines, stick to those routines. Non-writers may not fully understand the need for them, but after you implement them and stick to them, they will get into the habit with you.

Life is hectic. Life is impossible to handle at times. Make your writing a routine, and you'll be able to focus through life's chaotic and blessed moments alike.