Fresh Fiction Blog | Paul Parsons | So you want to be an Author

You've just finished a novel by one of your favorite authors and it...well, stunk. "I can do that badly," you say to yourself. How hard can it be? You've had that idea for a novel on slow cook in the back of your brain now for what? Five years?

Then the practicality of it sets in. Are there some steps to take before you write that first sentence, or can you just pull up a chair and crank out the next best seller? By choosing the latter, you are dooming yourself to the mistakes already made by those who came before you.

Fate intervened in my case, and as I was contemplating this question, a flier arrived in the mail from my alma mater, Dartmouth College, announcing a week long summer course, open to alumni, on fiction writing. I called the professor who was very encouraging and suggested I bring a sample of my writing to the class for critique. Having not yet written anything, I experienced my first pangs on anxiety. I will be critiqued?

This turned out to be my first test as a writer. Of course you'll be critiqued. And not always favorably, assuming you submit your writing to someone other than parents and spouse. If you can't stomach this, drop out now.

What I learned at this course was the discipline required. It's not about spelling, grammar and sentence construction. It's about commitment. Set aside time every day (and I mean every day) that is your time to write. Mine is 4:30 to 6:00 am...EVERY DAY. Maybe I write a thousand words; maybe I stare at the screen and nothing happens―doesn't matter. I was there. I showed up. Write garbage if you have to. The delete button works wonderfully if you are unhappy.

The second lesson: Get the story written. Worry about the mechanics later. That's what editing and rewriting are all about.

You get the idea. Save yourself from yourself. Take a class. Join a writing group. Talk to other authors. It's okay to begin writing if you're just itching to do so. But get out there and learn about this wonderful craft from others. I haven't met an author yet unwilling to share, or at least tell, his or her story.

BADEN-POWELL'S BEADS: LONDON, is the second in his hictoric fiction thriller series. Paul is giving away two sets of BADEN-POWELL'S BEADS, books 1 & 2

Baden-Powell's Beads
Baden-Powell
#1.0
April 2012

Baden-Powell's Beads: London
Baden-Powell
#2.0
April 2013

Comments

Great comments and advice. Digging inside myself to find the discipline to write everyday at the same time is much harder than I ever thought it would be. Like you said some days the screen stays blank in front of me and others the words almost magically flow.
(Angee Bartlett 2:21am July 30, 2013)

I can't imagine the perseverance to get through writing a book. It is an amazing commitment.
(Pam Howell 8:37am July 30, 2013)

Your commitment and devotion to writing is to be admired and
how fortunate so many can enjoy your books. Best wishes and
much success.
(Sharon Berger 9:24am July 30, 2013)

Wow - thank you for sharing this with us - if enthusiasm for reading alone was all one needed to write, then I would be a prolific author - LOL - however, such is not the case, obviously. The discipline and dedication required is amazing; thank you for stepping out and sharing your talent with us!
(Felicia Ciaudelli 9:55am July 30, 2013)

Great advice! :) I'll pass on the link to my friends for sure!
(May Pau 10:15am July 30, 2013)

It's wonderful that you took the time to give some added advice to those of us that would love to write, and aren't sure which way to turn, and what lies around the corner once they get started. I, myself have a book in mind, as well as the discipline, should I decide to write. Once the book is written, I don't know where I would go, because I don't have another book in mind. It would only be a one-book shot. That's my whole problem. The other problem right now is that I have myself involved with another commitment at the moment, so I have to put it on the back burner (again), which doesn't thrill me. I thought about writing it out in longhand here and there when I get a few spare minutes, so that at least I can get it started, and maybe I'll be able to get it finished in between the commitment I'm involved in now. Writing has been a dream of mine for as long as I can remember, and I had teachers in school who even told me that I could go far, if I continued in that vein. I would also love to read your books, considering I love the setting of your books, and also love the topic. Thank you again for the advice!!
(Peggy Roberson 11:06am July 30, 2013)

Great advice. Thanks for sharing. And your books sound wonderful. I truly appreciate the chance to win. But now that I've read about them, I plan to get your books to read whether I win or not. Best of luck with them - and all you do!
(Nancy Reynolds 12:18pm July 30, 2013)

Thanks to all who have commented. Hang in there.. Sounds like you all
have the fire in the belly required.
(Paul Parsons 12:46pm July 30, 2013)

That was good advice. I am always impressed with the dedication and discipline that writers have.
(Maureen Emmons 6:12pm July 30, 2013)

I appreciate the advice, I think you have to keep growing as a person, that never stops and committing yourself to things you love and believe in is such a rewarding part of being who you are!
(Darci Paice 6:32pm July 30, 2013)

Thank you for taking time to advise. I wrote a children's story years ago in high school and my teacher found an interested publisher. I wrote it for my sister and she asked that I not share it. Now I regret that I did not, but am hesitant to try again. It has been many years, but your comments have helped.
(Sharon Mitchell 7:49pm July 30, 2013)

I have often thought about writing a book, but have never felt
confident to actually do so. How I envy your talent and
appreciate your encoragement, I also have felt your pain in
your critique! Please keep writing your stories.
(C Culp 9:03pm July 30, 2013)

Your words are very encouraging, with good suggestions for a person wanting to be a writer. Your books sound so very exciting, the type I like to read. Thank you for this chance to win them and I hope I do. The Best To You Always,
(Esther Somorai 9:11pm July 30, 2013)

Your books sound wonderful. Thank you very much for the insight into writing!
(Molly Wilsbacher 9:23pm July 30, 2013)

It's always interesting to hear writers' stories - thanks for sharing.
(Mary C 11:22pm July 30, 2013)

Thanks for your words of encouragement. You are right. I have spoken to some authors that are even more than happy to offer advise. I love that networking that in the world of authors, everyone is willing to share and see to each other success. All of you authors are the best.
(Kai Wong 2:11am July 31, 2013)

I found this interesting. Hope to read the books soon.
(Penny Mettert 4:33am July 31, 2013)

Well done for getting your work written and out.
I am interested in the titles as I was a Girl Guide, so Baden-Powell catches my attention. Did you know that Scouting For Boys is the fourth best selling book in the world ever? After the Bible, the Koran and Thoughts of Chairman Mao.
(Clare O'Beara 9:08am July 31, 2013)

I truly enjoyed reading how you got started writing and disciplined yourself to do it daily at a set time. I think if you're committed to something, you will succeed at it (as in any job you have a strong interest in). Your books sound great, and much success with them!
(Rich Cook 6:29pm July 31, 2013)

It always seems like the writing community is so supportive.
(Mary Preston 11:43pm July 31, 2013)

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