Saturday 10 November 2012

Keeping going in the face of disappointment...

IF you're looking for clues on how to treat those two imposters - triumph and disaster - just the same and all that Kipling stuff, then don't read this...

But if like me, you're made of lesser stuff, then feel free to read on...

I received a horrible disappointment today about a writing project of mine.

Before I go any further - a note to those of my fellow writers who are not yet published - don't be under any illusions that it gets easier once you've published your first (or second, or third) novel. Oh, of course it does, for some. J. K. Rowling was laughing by that stage of her career. But for some of us... it definitely doesn't get any easier and I'm inclined to think it may sometimes get harder.

I can't say exactly what my latest disappointment is. All I can reveal is that, while I understand the rationale behind it and don't hold any grudges, it hurts. Oh my, does it hurt...

But only in the way that professional disappointments hurt. It's work, not life, when all is said and done. No one's life is under threat. However much I love writing - it's just work. It's not my family, my kids. The only thing that will suffer is my silly pride. It might well make me a better writer in the long run. (If only I could make that scan, it might actually sound a little Kiplingesque...)

The hard bit is picking yourself up, dusting yourself down and carrying on with the book you're currently writing - not listening to the taunting inner voice that cries, 'You're rubbish and this proves it!'

Not listening, do you hear?

I can write and I will write. What's more, I am writing. Good luck to all you other writers out there, whatever stage of your career you are at. Don't let anyone or anything stop you.

Best wishes
Ros





10 comments:

Rosemary Gemmell said...

You have my sympathies, Rosalie - I don't have to imagine very hard how you must be feeling. Unfortunately, it's the name of the game we play - but you are definitely a very good writer and will succeed again!

Helen Baggott said...

You're one of the most talented writers I read - whatever the setback it will be overcome.

Rosalie Warren said...

Thank you, Rosemary and Helen - you are both very kind and encouraging. I will take heart and struggle on.

Jacqueline Pye said...

If it's about a piece of authorship, why not give it a quick kiss then stash it in a drawer and promise to bring it out sometime in the future?

Rosalie Warren said...

Thanks, Jacqueline... I'm certainly putting it on side for now, though it's a bit complicated and I may have some decisions to make.

Carolb said...

Sympathies, Rosalie. It's difficult at the moment, but I'm sure you'll emerge the other side and know where that project will go.
Good luck.

Rosalie Warren said...

Thanks, Carol. I'm feeling a bit better after a relaxing Sunday and getting a bit more perspective on things.

Anonymous said...

That all sounds very frustrating, Rosalie. :( Best of luck with whatever you decide on this project. It's always good to step back and look at things from a different angle.

marion

Rosalie Warren said...

Thanks, Marion. I'm sure you're right.

CallyPhillips said...

Learning to 'trust' the inner voice is important (obviously not if it's a wee bugger which constantly tells you you're crap - then you need to work on your 'inner voice relationship') and when you can trust your inner voice you can brush off all those external voices which put you down! Believe me, the writing ain't the problem. Your ability to write ain't the problem!!!