Do I Have What it Takes?
I’m having one of those mornings where I’m filled with indecision — where I’m questioning whether or not I have the talent to do my fantasy novel justice. I wonder if I’m capable of creating a world that’s believable and one that others will fall in love with — one that others can immerse themselves in.
When I look at the worlds that authors like Jennifer Hudock, James Melzer, Allie Burke, Nick Denmon and Will Entrekin created in their stories, I can’t help but think, Can I write a story like these, one that is filled with detail and that captures the world inside my head? Do I have the talent a story like the one I’m writing needs? And I just don’t know. And that scares me.
For me, it’s easier to write a short story. I truly am proud of the two I’ve published. But novels are not the same. I’ve completed two over the years: The Obsession and Without Wings. To say my earlier attempts were less than stellar would be an understatement. I think The Obsession has the chance to be great, but it needs a lot of work, so I don’t know if I’ll ever rework it. Maybe one day.
So I guess the only thing I can do for now is to keep writing and hoping that the end result is what I want it to be. If you’d like to read the beginning of my fantasy novel, you can find it here. It’s in the very early stages, so very little has been done to it. Its edges are rough and definitely need some work, so please keep that in mind when reading it.
Erin says:
I believe in you. I read what you’ve written in your fantasy novel so far and I am intrigued. It seems like it will be a great book. I know it’s hard to believe in yourself when you read so many great things by so many great authors, but you are among those great authors (at least in my eyes). Take a deep breath, let it out slowly and repeat after me: I can do this. 🙂
Nikki says:
Aw, Erin! Thank you so much. I doubt myself a lot. I don’t see myself in the same league as the authors I mentioned. But it means a lot to me to know you see me that way. Thank you very much.
*whispers* I can do this!
David Sobkowiak
Twitter: dsobkowiak
says:
Time, revisions, patience and maybe a lot of coffee. That’s all you need. That, and stop comparing your work to the work of others. I know the feeling, I know how hard it is to not question yourself and your work. How hard it can be to just put on the blinders and rework that scene, chapter, story line.
You’ve already shown that you have what it takes in that you’ve completed several works already. That’s the hardest battle, and you’ve already won. Next up is the revision, redrafting and reworking. You can do it and I think we’re all rooting for you!
Go get em!
Allie Burke says:
First of all, Nicole, I have to tell you that I am honored to be mentioned alongside these amazing authors on your site. Including you.
I absolutely think you have what it takes. For me, A Second Chance was another world in itself. Especially as we read on to the end.
I was lucky enough to be asked by you to read part of what you had. You know I loved it, because I told you so. I’ll tell you again.
… I loved it.
Don’t limit yourself to your short stories. While they were both amazing, I KNOW first hand that your gift for storytelling goes beyond that. It goes–wherever you want it to.
You’re an amazing Writer, Nicole. You can do it. I know you can.
Nikki says:
Thanks, David. And I know I shouldn’t compare myself to others. I tell myself that all the time. And yet, I do it anyway. I’m not sure that’ll ever change. In a way I think it’s what motivates me. Strange, I know.
And thank you for rooting for me. You’ve been a great friend and inspiration.
Nikki says:
You deserve a place there, Allie. The world you created in Violet Midnight is beautiful.
And thank you for taking the time to read that piece before I posted it. Like I said, I hadn’t let many people read it.
I’m really worried about letting my characters and that story down. My perfectionism is rearing its ugly head again.
Thank you for believing in me.
Patrick says:
Yes. Continue. Do not stop. ‘It’ is there.
Nikki says:
Thanks, Pat!
Acadia
Twitter: acadia
says:
Stop ragging on yourself in your posts. Damn. The nuns you to tell me: God made you and God doesn’t make junk. Just replace “make” with “be partners and friends with” and “God” with “Acadia”.
I’m in charge of ragging on you. Dope.
Nikki says:
Yes, that is your job. And you do so well at it.
@SmithEClaire says:
I have these doubts ALL the time. I’m feeling that now with my screenplay, especially since it’s a medium I’ve never worked with lately.
But I think that’s part of the writing process, is doubts. Just trust in your characters, and more importantly in yourself. From what I’ve read, you are very talented!
We believe in you Nicole! <3