While it's very exciting to start writing a new book, it's also very satisfying to type "The End" on a manuscript. Months of research, writing, rewriting and editing have come to an end. I always breathe a sigh of relief as I send a book off to my publisher. I can relax for a while, at least until it's time to go through my book with the editor, to choose a book cover and to begin to promote the book.
But, my mind is free! No more writing in my head even when I'm not at my computer. A respite from jotting down ideas when I'm in the bathtub or driving in my car. Because that's what we writers do. When we're in the midst of writing a novel, it's constantly with us. Day and night. If that sounds like a bad thing, let me assure you that it's not. In fact, it's one of the joys of writing. But we all need a break once in a while, even from the things we love.
And I do love the process of creating. It all starts with a single idea. It could be something as simple as a snippet of conversation overheard in a restaurant, an expression on someone's face or, as in my case, the sight of an old Victorian when I went for a walk one day and wondered what would happen if those walls could talk.
That single idea begins to grow until, eventually, it blossoms into a complete manuscript. I send it out, sigh and then another idea takes hold of me and the process begins all over again. And, I wouldn't have it any other way!
You put it so well, Patricia. I come at it from a little different direction. I type The End and feel almost panicky. What comes next? I love to take a short break between books, but the ol' mind never stops thinking, plotting and planning. I have a feeling that when you least expect it, an idea pops into your head and won't let go. : )
ReplyDeleteMarja,
ReplyDeleteAfter I've been immersed in writing a novel for months and months and I've finally finished it, I NEED to take a break. It's either that or pull my hair out. However, if ideas come to me for my next book while I'm taking that break, I jot them down and forget about them until I'm ready to get "back in the zone" again. :)
Indeed, it is a special moment when you come to the end--hard to articulate--and impossible to duplicate with anything else. Wonderful feeling, I think! Good post...
ReplyDeleteMadeline
Thanks for stopping by, Madeline. Finishing a manuscript is a wonderful feeling. I'm getting close. :)
Delete