Let’s face it, I’m not inspired enough to blog every day. Or even to write ever day. I’ve never been an every day writer. I’m an every day editor, reviser, rewriter — but when I’m drafting a story I purge it onto the page and then I need a break.
Hence, no writing or blog post yesterday.
But, breaks inspire me. I think about my characters while I’m cruising the local Acme. I untangle plot knots while I’m changing out my manicure.
This morning as I sipped my second cup of coffee and read the book du jour, and early copy of Hazel Gaynor’s The Lighthouse Keeper’s Daughter (fabulous), I saw the last scene of an unwritten, not-fully-realized NEXT book. It played out like a movie in my brain, as these things tend to do. So I rummaged for a pen (why do I never learn??) and picked up the notebook I’ve dedicated to the cause of my Shiny New Idea. I scribbled down the scene.
I’m exhausted.
For a new book idea to take hold while I’m deep into writing another book is a blessing and a curse. I have to jot down all the ideas that pop to mind for this new story — and like in When You Give a Mouse a Cookie one thing just seems to lead to another and another. It’s exhilarating and it’s distracting. I do not think it’s a subconscious procrastination tactic (though I gave that some serious thought) because I am still enamored with The Last Bathing Beauty. I even know what I’m writing today which is a big deal considering I’m a planster (that my plotter/pantser combo I talk about in my Fall WF workshop and what I’ve always claimed to be).
I won’t say anything about my Shiny New Idea except that the idea came from a magazine article, similar to how the idea for The Last Bathing Beauty came from a newspaper story. And that the last scene involves a pie. Now, I know what you thinking –that sounds sweet, right? 😉
What inspired you to write today?
xo Amy
Thank you, Amy. You’ve inspired me to write today. I’ve been in a slump since returning from vacation-and reading your blog posts have helped enormously! Just published a post in my own blog and have returned to The Mean Girls/Teacher manuscript from last year. We’ll see where it goes. Expect a lemon zester.
Lynn, I have the hardest time after I’ve been away! It takes me twice as long to unpack my suitcase as how many days I was gone! (And yes, that’s math) Ease yourself in and I bet you’ll be back on track in no time!
Congrats on the new idea! I’m glad I’m not the only one who works that way. I totally understand the blessing-curse dynamic. I can have several WIP going at the same time. Sometimes I think I should just combine them all! LOL After I pay the bills, I’ll be editing today. Maybe paying the bills will inspire me? Doubtful. Have a great day!
That wouldn’t inspire me either! I hope you can find a way to one of your WIP today! 🙂
So happy an idea reached out and grabbed you this weekend. It’s kind of like being able to love more than one child at a time, don’t you think? Our heart, minds, and craft all expand to hold the new idea.
Piddling about the house on Saturday always does that for me. Shiny, new ideas seem to pop up while I’m flipping laundry or sweeping floors.
Now, I’m hungry for pie. Thanks for that.
Ha! Just doing my part for the bakeries of America!