To accept the need to rewrite, rewrite and rewrite no matter how long it takes. It’s tough sometimes especially to accept the need to rewrite a novel. But I’ve never regretted editing like this and inevitably my work is stronger for it. I’ve been told I’m very good at getting into my characters’ heads.
Do you have any advice to give to aspiring writers?
Don’t give up. Read widely and include non-fiction if you write fiction as factual accounts can spark off interesting ideas to help you flesh out your made up worlds. Be professional with spelling, grammar, how you present your work, following competition and/or submission instructions. Be ready for criticism, fair or otherwise. Always be prepared to take a critical look at your own work after giving it a period of “resting”. You then re-read your work with a fresh eye and it is easier to spot weaknesses in story structure, plot, and characters and so on then. Above all, enjoy the whole writing process from thinking of the initial idea to what seems like the umpteenth rewrite. You need to love it to be able to do it and stick with it – as the actress said to the bishop!
Do you have a specific writing time?
I tend to write in the evenings and weekends. On the odd days when I’ve a little more time, I will find a piece of work and get on with that. I think it helpful to have a specific time to write on the grounds you’re training your brain to get used to being in full writer mode. It also helps you be more organized and to hopefully help others treat your writing seriously. In putting time aside for writing, you’re taking your writing seriously. You can’t expect anyone else to do so if you won’t.