I started this journey on the 3rd February 2014, writing my first 2100 words (well roughly not sure of exact word count I use a typewriter). I had no clue if I could do it, complete it, and get to the point where I could finally type the words, THE END. Well, after nearly three months of work I finally completed the first draft of my novel, on the 23rd April 2014, reaching a word count of 129,900 words (again that’s an estimate). With that strange warm fuzzy feeling inside I took a deep breath and typed the final words.
I still can’t believe that I have finished my first draft. It feels weird not working on it, now it’s hidden away from me, but after a month or so I plan to read it with fresh eyes and begin this long editing process. But for now I shall push all those thoughts away and embrace this achievement. I plan to enjoy this completed stage because it took a long time to get here, and it’s a green tick and a huge step forward towards my dream. To mark this achievement I have decided to treat myself and buy a new satchel, I’ve had my eye on it for a while. With this writing journey, you need to hold onto even the smallest positives because it’s that that will help you to continue on this very rocky road.
So what’s next? Well, with this break from my novel, I have many plans to keep me busy. I’m going to be working on my short story collection. I have a huge pile of stories to edit and submit. I have many story ideas that I want to start working on and believe it or not I already have another novel idea. So as you can see I have more than enough to keep me occupied until I begin the task of getting this novel submission ready.
If anyone had told me that I would write a novel, and consider trying to get it published, I would have laughed. However, when something is your true passion, no matter how many different paths you take, you always end up back here, and I wouldn’t want it any other way.
Keep writing, folks!
My latest, The Horror Tree, posts can be found at the links below.
http://horrortree.com/setting-self-doubt-on-fire-first-draft-blues/