I take too many breaks. Walking the perimeter of the prairie at least once, sometimes twice a day. Untangling cucumber vines and zucchini plants in search of more veggies to add to the growing hill of produce on the kitchen counter. Reading my tenth epic fantasy novel so far this year. Trying to make sense of an Italian news broadcast. Sketching an urban scene. Working out the design of a mission-style side table. Making it.
I tend to fast yes, but I also tend to let it sit for years before getting back to it! Just know returning to edit a novel I finished back in 2017- and I can see so much that needs fixed. Do you take a brake after every draft? I do at least 4?
I personally just take a long break after a 1st(ish) draft. I say ish because I do edit as I go and the story takes shape. After that, no. Revision is pretty systematic once the story is there. I go through with different things in mind on each pass. That said, I have shelved a few projects I might go back to one day. I do think what you do can add depths.
I take too many breaks. Walking the perimeter of the prairie at least once, sometimes twice a day. Untangling cucumber vines and zucchini plants in search of more veggies to add to the growing hill of produce on the kitchen counter. Reading my tenth epic fantasy novel so far this year. Trying to make sense of an Italian news broadcast. Sketching an urban scene. Working out the design of a mission-style side table. Making it.
It's a mystery how I get any writing done at all.
This is the portrait of a dream life, Charles. :)
Love the Lamott quote. Taking breaks is hard for me, but I'm going to try to follow your example once I've finished drafting my WIP. Thanks, Jen.
It's the hardest thing, Nancy!! But I think when it's hard that's a good sign. 😊
I tend to fast yes, but I also tend to let it sit for years before getting back to it! Just know returning to edit a novel I finished back in 2017- and I can see so much that needs fixed. Do you take a brake after every draft? I do at least 4?
I personally just take a long break after a 1st(ish) draft. I say ish because I do edit as I go and the story takes shape. After that, no. Revision is pretty systematic once the story is there. I go through with different things in mind on each pass. That said, I have shelved a few projects I might go back to one day. I do think what you do can add depths.