I can remember many times in my life in which I was incredibly frustrated or achingly sad or wretchedly waiting for something to finish or to start. I don't remember many times of quiet satisfaction or contentedness, although I know I have had these moments, but they are often unremembered because they lack, well, drama … Continue reading How I’m feeling right now
novel
On first drafting…again
I was at Varuna The Writer's House for a week and could not bring my thoughts together enough to write a blog post last weekend, and besides, was busy writing other words. The trip was to attend a masterclass. I paid to stay there and I took a week's leave without pay. With flights, trains, … Continue reading On first drafting…again
Motto for the season
I've realised my writing life works in seasons. They are long, rambling seasons that are only evident when they have begun and I am in it enough to recognise what is happening, and after they've ended. They are loosely a year or two long but they can be longer. The no-writing season went for about … Continue reading Motto for the season
Finding time and the will to write
This week I met a deadline I made for myself: to send my first three chapters to some wonderful readers who have offered to give feedback. This deadline allows me plenty of time to wait for feedback then edit again before I need to send the chapters off to the Richell Prize (eeek!) Finding the … Continue reading Finding time and the will to write
How to join a writing group
Join a writing group. This advice for writers is pretty universal. I've sat in so many audiences at author events when the question 'what advice would you give to emerging writers?' is asked. And I want to get up and walk out because I have heard it all before: Read Write Join a writing group … Continue reading How to join a writing group
How a week away saved my novel (and me)
Last Saturday I pulled into my carport, weary after a five hour drive and keen to unpack the car, put on a load of washing and have a bath. But I was also totally inspired, felt a wonderful sense of achievement and was fired up for the next few months at least. I was arriving … Continue reading How a week away saved my novel (and me)
