write that book

Hoping to finish in 2010

I have a huge hangup when it comes to writing a book. I have had stories in my head for so long, and yet I can’t ever get beyond writing the first few pages. I think the frustration lies in that great expectation that goes with writing. It’s hard for people to accept that any writing could conceivably be just to do it. There always seems to be attached a need to “make it big”, as though I might be the next bestselling author. It makes me feel ashamed, like I’m a pathetic waitress hoping to be the next “it” girl. I want to for once just put it all on paper and get it over with. I’d never have to make a nickel from it!

My voice and vision are fresh and unlike those of any other person. And I truly care about the story. If I don’t write it, it will most likely not be written. Remember:

“There is a vitality, a life-force, an energy, a quickening that is translated through you into action, and because there is only one of you in all time, this expression is unique. And if you block it, it will never exist through any other medium and will be lost.” ~ Martha Graham

“Never do things others can do and will do, if there are things others cannot do or will not do.” ~ Amelia Earhart

Writing Your First Novel

How to Write a Novel Using the Snowflake Method

Writing My First Novel Discussion Group

I found this great quote a little while after stating that my dream is to write: “Whatever you can do, or dream you can, begin it. Boldness has genius, power, and magic in it.” ~ Johann Wolfgang von Goethe.

My dream is to write western historical fiction based upon the experiences of my great-great-grandfather in frontier Utah. I do feel inadequate as this novel could be of epic proportion covering decades of time and such serious subject matter as Mormon theocracy, Indian wars, human trafficking, polygamy, and blood atonement. What I’ve uncovered while researching my own family history is truly captivating. It is a remarkable story and one definitely worth telling.

A detailed one, that actually makes sense and almost could be a table of contents. It took a whole day, but I’m pleased. That was a couple days ago… it’s under the metaphorical bed right now so I can edit it more objectively this weekend.

a “How to Write a Book Proposal” book from the library today… this might not be impossible after all.

last weekend I took some reference stuff and started making real notes. On real paper!

I need to start working on.