Very excited for you Jennie. And I've only published one book so I don't have firsthand experience, but I have come to think that the thing is just to keep working and not assume that the standard of what we produce has to improve each time or even stay the same – but just to keep producing work and moving forward because that's what makes us happy (easier said than done)! x
Hi Jennie, here from CTI :). Love your newsletter. Still can't wait to read your novel and congrats on the second! I just have to say - your book covers are everything. They have such a classic look and stand out in a sea of sameness. The font seems like it was made for your name. so good!
I’ve been reading your words here for a while, Jennie and finally read TLOST over the last few weeks and wow - just wow, a book that will stay with me for a while - can not wait to read the new book!
I am SO EXCITED about reading your new book! I often think about the authors I love who have written a lot of books - and the way that my ‘favourites’ probably aren’t objectively the best, it’s a very subjective response based on where I was, literally, emotionally etc, when I was reading it! (Also I’m always nicely surprised to meet my readers and learn that they all have very different, strong opinions about which book is my ‘best’.) I’ve been rereading my favourite book about writing, Random Commentary by Dorothy Whipple. She’s regularly infuriated by interruptions - but when she has a stretch of clear, calm days, she can’t get a thing done! (Her books always got written…)
Oh I have never heard of this book! Ordering immediately. And Daisy you are so bloody generous and wise (and I hope I’ll be able to tempt you with a proof of book 2 🤣) x
What an inspiring post Jennie - thank you. You’re right in that having acres of time to write can just result in a total head scramble. I also overthink, worry and panic (am currently on a mad 2 books a year schedule). I have a post it note on my desk saying ‘it’s only a silly book’!
Great article. Really interesting to read. I can relate to the writing while bust thing. I used to think if I was a full time writer I'd get so much more done but I actually think fitting in writing around my full time job and my life keeps me focused. I only have limited time so I just have to go for it when I can.
Love these thoughts. I know that your post on editing had a huge impact on me. And as an ex-journalist I should know better that your first draft will always be edited anyway but not being in this industry anymore I forgot ! It reminded me that what matters is to put the words on the page and worry later about making it good because that's the magic of it : it can be improved on the 2nd, 3rd, 4th draft ! Who cares how many drafts. Anyway, congrats again x
Thank you for your generosity in writing about your writing process. You're right, readers - this one anyway! - love to read about how you work, particularly if aspiring writers themselves.
It's been great to 'meet' you here, and before I'd heard of TLOST which I enjoyed immensely. I'm looking forward to the next one, and congratulations!
Very excited for you Jennie. And I've only published one book so I don't have firsthand experience, but I have come to think that the thing is just to keep working and not assume that the standard of what we produce has to improve each time or even stay the same – but just to keep producing work and moving forward because that's what makes us happy (easier said than done)! x
Oh my goodness yes Hattie! This is a great way of thinking about it (and thank you!)
Hi Jennie, here from CTI :). Love your newsletter. Still can't wait to read your novel and congrats on the second! I just have to say - your book covers are everything. They have such a classic look and stand out in a sea of sameness. The font seems like it was made for your name. so good!
Ahhhh thank you Meredith
I’ve been reading your words here for a while, Jennie and finally read TLOST over the last few weeks and wow - just wow, a book that will stay with me for a while - can not wait to read the new book!
Oh Rach thank you so much!
I am SO EXCITED about reading your new book! I often think about the authors I love who have written a lot of books - and the way that my ‘favourites’ probably aren’t objectively the best, it’s a very subjective response based on where I was, literally, emotionally etc, when I was reading it! (Also I’m always nicely surprised to meet my readers and learn that they all have very different, strong opinions about which book is my ‘best’.) I’ve been rereading my favourite book about writing, Random Commentary by Dorothy Whipple. She’s regularly infuriated by interruptions - but when she has a stretch of clear, calm days, she can’t get a thing done! (Her books always got written…)
Oh I have never heard of this book! Ordering immediately. And Daisy you are so bloody generous and wise (and I hope I’ll be able to tempt you with a proof of book 2 🤣) x
YES PLEASE YES PLEASE YES PLEASE!!! X
What an inspiring post Jennie - thank you. You’re right in that having acres of time to write can just result in a total head scramble. I also overthink, worry and panic (am currently on a mad 2 books a year schedule). I have a post it note on my desk saying ‘it’s only a silly book’!
Fiona! I cannot even imagine writing two books a year, that’s incredible! But I also love the post-it idea
Great article. Really interesting to read. I can relate to the writing while bust thing. I used to think if I was a full time writer I'd get so much more done but I actually think fitting in writing around my full time job and my life keeps me focused. I only have limited time so I just have to go for it when I can.
Love these thoughts. I know that your post on editing had a huge impact on me. And as an ex-journalist I should know better that your first draft will always be edited anyway but not being in this industry anymore I forgot ! It reminded me that what matters is to put the words on the page and worry later about making it good because that's the magic of it : it can be improved on the 2nd, 3rd, 4th draft ! Who cares how many drafts. Anyway, congrats again x
Beautiful and wise words that apply not on,y to writing nut so much of life. Thank you x
Cant wait to read your book, you are brilliant 🥰
Thank you for your generosity in writing about your writing process. You're right, readers - this one anyway! - love to read about how you work, particularly if aspiring writers themselves.
It's been great to 'meet' you here, and before I'd heard of TLOST which I enjoyed immensely. I'm looking forward to the next one, and congratulations!