Here's a little bonus post for today - I just found a gem, this wonderful Sue Grafton article. I always love it when authors (especially well-respected, and yes, well-paid authors) take the time to give interviews about the craft of writing.
Sue Grafton's Advice for Writers: Put in the Time
Five books from the end of her alphabet series, Sue Grafton says it doesn't get any easier—and there's always another lesson to learn about the ABCs of writing.
*note - I like reading that, even as well-established as she is, Ms. Grafton still struggles, still has insecurities and doubts. Hey! Published authors are human, after all! That gives me hope. :-)
Oh, and my very favorite part of the article is this --
Do you have a sense of what’s going to happen to Kinsey when you hit Z?
No. You have to understand, this is a form of mental illness. I fully own it. In my mind, I am only privileged to know what she chooses to share, and she assures me that some things are just not my business, thank you. I don’t tell her. She tells me. I discover things about her in the process of writing. I don’t have a great scheme afoot. I try to keep honest, I try not to repeat myself. I try to let her evolve as she will, not according to my dictates. It’s a very odd process.
Interesting post! I tend to think bestselling authors like Sue Grafton have it all mapped out. It's encouraging to know they don't! Thanks for sharing!
ReplyDeleteThat is truely interesting to know! and THANKS for sharing!
ReplyDeleteYes, I love that she was willing to talk about her challenges with writing, even now, after so many successful books. I don't know that a lot of "well-known" authors would show their weak spots so willingly (and I'm sure they have them!). Very encouraging...
ReplyDeleteIt IS encouraging to know such a prolific author can struggle at times too. I like the part where she says, "I don't tell her. She tells me."
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