My Red Sharpie is My Best Friend
The hardest part about editing this particular story is having to deal with these emotions it evokes in me. There were times over the past couple days that I balled my eyes out as I read what I wrote. It’s common practice for me to read the dialogue out loud, almost as though I’m acting it out, to see if it’s believable. I figure if I end up crying, laughing or whatever, then I’m doing something right.
On a good note, a friend of mine told me that as soon as I publish this story, she will buy it, which was nice to hear. I can’t wait to see how others respond to it.
To be honest, though, I’m scared because most of my friends are writers of fantasy and/or horror, and while I’m huge fan of those kinds of stories, my own is nothing like theirs, so I’m worried that it’ll pale in comparison, even though it comes from my heart and is filled with little pieces of me. So I’m crossing my fingers that the story finds a home in other people’s hearts and gives them hope and let’s them know they aren’t alone.
chandra says:
I'm looking forward to reading it! Your love and passion for your story is evident, and I'm sure that emotion shines through and gives your story heart. That heart will communicate across genres and move others like it's moved you.
Patrick says:
Oh I dont know.. a good story is a good story, no matter the genre or setting. I love all kinds of stuff, most folks do. Ship it! I'll read it and I have no doubt we will all enjoy it!
R. Van Saint says:
All you can do as a writer is to tell your stories as best you can and set it free. Not knowing how people will react to it (good or bad) is part of the excitement (at least to me). Don't play the comparison game, you have your own unique voice surely.
Jim Ryan says:
I'd be interested to hear more about how you deal with writing about subjects that are particularly emotional for you. The one time I wrote something that I knew would affect me that deeply I ended up getting drunk first before I wrote it. (Then when I came back to do the editing later on it seemed like another person had written it!) Very good post!
Veronica says:
"I figure if I end up crying, laughing or whatever, then I'm doing something right."
I completely agree with you on that. When you're able to bring up those emotions, then you're on the right track. Go go red sharpies!
Nicole Ireland says:
Honestly, Jim, the way I deal with those emotions is to cry…A LOT! I'm not a big drinker. I don't have any other vices either except for a coffee here and there.
The thing is, for me, my writing has always been my escape, my way of dealing with the bad times. I went through a period of time where I internalized everything and didn't address it. It was like a volcano waiting to erupt. After a great deal of thought, I realized the most productive thing that I could do was put all of my emotions onto paper. It's not easy, but it keeps me sane…somewhat!
drewbeatty says:
I think most readers will enjoy the story for the sake of the story, genre or no genre. Besides, reading a vsriety of forms will help us all become better writers!
Jenny Beans says:
As I said to you in person, it doesn't matter what you write about, as long as you write it and share with the world. People love to connect emotionally, and you write from such an emotional perspective that it will resonate with readers. I know it will.
vange says:
The fine tip sharpie pens are the best! They even come in orange!
Morgan says:
I'm a huge horror fan, but I enjoy reading all types of fiction. I don't think you should worry about finding an audience… a good story will find an audience.
Edward G. Talbot says:
It won't "pale" it will just be different, which is fine. I read about 90% thrillers, horror and comedy, yet my favorite book is probably The Alchemist by aolo Coehlo.
And I deal with the emotions by crying a lot too. Which is a heavy and complex topic I'm not ready to expound on more at the moment, but you are not alone.