Dame Lili
ETA: Contest winners have been chosen! Go here for details.
Let’s talk about truth in writing. A fellow writer asked me the other day:
Here’s the thing. I’m a good writer. I know the craft stuff, I have the structure, characterization, dialogue, plot. . . what I lack is that spark of truth, theme, life. I write as honestly as I can, but I don’t know how to break through to the next level. How do you connect to yourself? I feel it should be the most basic element of writing, that one must learn the Other stuff, whereas I know the Other stuff and lack being straightforward. Ironic. How do you do it? Where does the connection come from? I feel I am making headway with my latest work because I asked “what am I trying to say here?” . . . I always avoided it because I don’t want to be preachy or gimmicky or too glib, but perhaps I should. I spent my lunch hour in the bookstore looking over writing reference books and my frustration kept growing because it occurred to me that I do know the things they’re trying to teach. It’s the Bones you talked about that I haven’t grasped yet. Help?
First of all, throw the goddamn writing reference books away. We may get metaphysical here in a bit, and that ballast won’t help. We all know how I feel about books on writing–there are two, count them, TWO I recommend[1] out of the vast number of how-tos. Hitting yourself on the head with those books is probably the best use for them, if only because it will feel so good when you stop. Quit trying to look for a magic key in there. If there was one, the entire self-help/writing book industry would tank overnight.
Next, the bad news.
* You ain’t never gonna be happy, honey, ’cause happy ain’t in the deal. No serious professional writer I know is ever completely happy with the work. Well, they are on one level–there’s a great deal of satisfaction in consistently turning out good craft. But writers are inveterate fiddlers. We go back and edit. Relentlessly and constantly. If we’re any good, we’re constantly refining. Even when your books are in print you are going to open them up and reach for your red pen. That’s just how it is–you are always going to see things you could have done better. It’s like life.
* Like ogres, this craft is all about…layers. There is always going to be another level to get to. No writer is so godlike-perfect that they can’t learn a thing or two, or want to get better. Your characters have layers–you can stay on the top and wonder about their motivations, you can sink inside their skins and look out through their eyes. Either will give you different things to write about. But there will always be another layer, another thing to consider, another goddamn thing to learn. Sorry about that.
But there’s good news, and it outweighs the bad.
* You’re probably ready to move forward. One of the “joys” of a writer’s life (like all true miracles, it has teeth) is that creative motion forward is indirect. I’ve often noticed I get itchy and dissatisfied for a while before the craft takes a serious step forward and I’m back to juggling chainsaws again. I call it “plateau-ing” and I’ve seen it in other writers. You might be ready to take that step into the layer of the “bones”. The process–inspiration, gestation, frustration, illumination–repeats itself over and over with the process of being a writer, both in terms of small individual works of art and artistic growth. Don’t rule out the idea that you might be getting ready to take a step forward.
* And you can’t see the forest for the trees. Get used to the idea that you might be too close to your own work to see the “spark” in it. That’s why we have beta readers and editors. If you’re very lucky you might glimpse it once or twice for yourself, but I have to tell you I haven’t seen it yet. My editor tells me it’s there. My beta assures me it’s there. Some readers tell me it’s there. Sometimes I’m pretty sure a work is technically sound, or I love it because it’s mine.
But here’s a secret: I still cannot see this “spark” you talk about. All I see are the mistakes.
Nobody said this was going to be easy. But if you know you’re too close to see it, you may find some comfort in the thought and quit beating yourself up about it. Beating yourself up is wasting time you could be using for writing. Just…consider the notion, okay?
* You’re obviously not going to quit. Believe it or not, this is very important. You know the answer is there and you’re not going to stop until you find it. That stubbornness will stand you in good stead, and I admire it.
So, what the hell should I tell you to do?
All applicable disclaimers here. But you asked my advice, so here it is.
* Get used to being scared. Like it or not, the bone is where the fear is, and the fear is where the power is. You even mention the lack of being straightforward. What are you scared of writing? Is it something your mother would disapprove of? Something you’d be embarrassed to show your friends? Do it anyway. That fear of being shamed if “someone” reads your stuff is an invaluable sign that you’re on the right track. Heart in your mouth and your palms wet? Don’t stop. Keep going, keep writing.
You care what “someone” thinks enough to stop writing? I didn’t think so. Here’s a little secret: most people could care less. You’re no more than a secondary character in the big drama of their life; it’s the curse of being human. If your mom cares that you write hot sex scenes, if Aunt Lucille would be scandalised because she thinks the dingbat old lady in the book is her, if your ex-boyfriend might recognize himself in the dime-store Lothario who gets nailed in the nuts…who cares? The fig leaf of “these events are fictional” in the front of the book is fair warning, so don’t worry about that. Writing someone into a book is a much healthier way to deal with any residual aggression than many others I could name. And your mom will probably be so proud you’re published she won’t even care about the spicy bits.
But it all comes down to this: who are you writing for? Yes, you have a commitment to your readers. But if you are not writing the things that thrill you all the way down to your knickers, you’re falling down both on that commitment to the readers and the commitment to yourself and your art.
* What is the risk here? You might be afraid of your character risking something. Without risk there is no reward. If your character isn’t really running a risk, of course it feels like you’re just phoning it in. Sit down and figure out what your characters are risking. Then, up the ante. Make them pay for it. Get your heart in your mouth. Be unsure whether or not they’re going to make it. Get them dirty and make them deal with consequences. I know you don’t want to–you really don’t want to hurt your characters. But you have to. Otherwise you have a story with no risk, and no reward.
* Whose story is it? As Laura Kalpakian once said, the story belongs to the character that changes the most. Who is changing in your story? If it’s not the hero/ine, you have some thinking to do.
* Why, yes. It IS like taking your clothes off in public. But nobody is going to look. Some people are going to think that everything you write is about You. A character with trauma must be YOUR trauma. They will judge you based on your characters, and how well your characters conform to THEIR expectations. Of course everything you write is personal–writing is a personal art. But you are going to have to learn that feeling of exposure is not necessarily yours. It’s another trick by the Internal Censor trying to get you to back away from Telling The Truth.
Nobody is going to “find you” in your writing, beyond certain values of lit-crit and biography that I wouldn’t worry about, because by the time they become relevant one will most likely be safely dead. Writing is personal, but it does not hold the key to your inner sanctum. Only you do. The fear of exposing oneself is a necessary social function, and it sometimes holds one back from getting the characters dirty or writing about a situation you have intimate knowledge or imagination of. Don’t worry about this while you’re writing. It can always be edited out, either by you or your beta or your editor. Get it all out first, no matter how heart-in-mouth you feel.
* Do not quit. If you have come this far, you are so very close. You have done what a high percentage of people who call themselves “writers” have never done–consistently finished work and taken a look at what it means and what it takes to get published. You are at one of the last hurdles before the world opens up. Don’t stop. Stamp the pedal to the metal and let the engine roar. Go for the horizon, race to beat the Devil, go until your heart burns. Do not stop.
I promise you, if you do not quit, that spark will be there. Whether you can see it or not.
Now go get ‘em.
[1] Stephen King’s On Writing and Strunk & White’s Elements of Style. That’s it.
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That is some pretty terrific advice. I am going to bookmark this to read again later.
Thanks!
Margay
Wonderful…….
And I already have Elements of Style (and always within easy reach)…..now for On Writing.
Yvonne
You always give me something to think about with your posts.
Thank you, thank you, THANK YOU for this post! You are such a source of inspiration!
Excellent post, Lili.
Here, here. I so totally agree. I remember the first novel I wrote (many years ago and now quietly gathering dust in a drawer). I let a coworker read it, and she passed it on to a few others without my knowledge. The next thing I knew, I was getting raised eyebrows from people in the hall thinking I must be like my characters if I write stuff like that. It amused me at the time, but I figured I must have hit a chord of truth somewhere in there if they thought that of me.
Since then, it’s been the one thing I challenge myself to do in everything I write–be honest. Rip those words out and let them bleed across the page. Each book (and there have been seven now, all still unpublished) teaches me more about this. I haven’t mastered it completely yet, as evidenced by my lack of publishing credit, but I’m getting closer. I think that’s the most important thing any writer needs to learn, and to remember.
Be honest, because your readers will see the lie if you aren’t.
Thanks. That was inspirational.
Excellent advice. The two books mentioned are great books indeed. More so, the remark, “Without risk there is no reward,” and the section titled, “Get used to being scared,” haha, good stuff.
There is so much here that I agree with, and thank you so much for putting it out like this. Definitely bookmarking this page to return to next time I feel like giving up.
The spark is definitely there for you, Lili! And that’s why I can’t wait to read ‘Strange Angels’!
Awesome post, great advice!
I always say editing for us is like eating mixed nuts-you open the can, you start with the stuff you like best, and unless someone takes the can away from you, eventually there’s nothing left.
Kudos to our brave beta-readers, what would we do without them? Betas are cheerleaders and big meanies and the people who know where the bodies are buried, and yes, they will tell you when you need to stop it because everything’s OK, really, even when you can’t see it.
Lilith is right. You’re almost there, really, almost, get support, keep trying, if you know it’ll never be perfect but you still keep trying–that’s 90% of it.
Lilith, thank you. Now I have to go tweet this one, ’cause I know people are going to want to comment, and not just for the giveaway, either.
I printed this and hung it up because you are telling writers what we know deep down inside. Our inner demons just do their best to drown out that knowledge with a constant barrage of insecurity and feelings of self loathing. Now who needs an exorcist! LOL
Lots of Love. Keep it up.
This was a great post, and came at the perfect time for me. Especially the “Get Used to being Scared” part.
THANK YOU!
Yeah. My grandma wants to read my book. Maybe I’ll just black out the spicy stuff. As for everyone else…they can just deal with it. Again. Thank you for this wonderful post!
Brooklyn Ann
Um. Wow. I just squeaked so loud my husband watching television (WITH headphones) said, “What’s wrong?!” Thank you for answering my question, Lili, and I won’t give up. (As Lynn Viehl over at GenReality says, “Don’t give up. It annoys the cynics.”)
Thought-provoking post and so true. I’m going to put a link to this on my blog so the writers who frequent my ramblings can drink this in as well.
This is all great advice. I’m so glad I found this site. I’ve bookmarked this page to keep and re-read. I really need to take this advice to heart.
Great advice! I liked Anne LaMott’s Bird by Bird book on writing too.
Thank you so much for a good article. I just love your advice. It lets me know I’m not nuts. Or that I am, and it’s okay. Or something.
Your twitter feed is fun, too.
Very good advice. I’ve attended numerous author talks about writing, the advice they have received and what actually worked for them. Seems the only real thing they have in common is that they are all different in their writing creativity. All I can say is thank heavens! How boring it would be if everyone kept to the same basic ideas and rules.
You write, I’ll read and we can all be as happy as possible!
Good post! And can’t wait to read Strange Angels
Great piece of advice !
I also can’t wait to read strange angels ^^
Everything you said nailed the way I feel. I came here from C.J. Redwine’s blog. I’m linking to this on my blog, too.
thank you for posting this!
I may not agree with all of it (but since when do I ever?) but I agree with the sentiment. Great post!!
[...] of the best writing advice I’ve read is in this blog by Lilith Saintcrow. Go read [...]
I love this advice. And I have a friend who had a similar conversation with my just yesterday. I’m sending her the link.
)
Thank you.
I am lovin’ the advice. And now I’ve got my fingers crossed for the contest.
I’ve been following your writing advice columns for awhile now, and they help a great deal. I hope you continue writing them.
No work is ever finished, merely abandoned.
One of my professors in college made this point while we were studying the end of Huckleberry Finn. It has stuck with me ever since. There are times I feel I complete more revision than new writing.
For me, the best way to have that “spark” is to get to know my characters. To have them tell me how they would react. Stay true to your characters.
I always enjoy reading your posts on livejournal. Another great spill of advice!
Great post, and I’m anxious to read STRANGE ANGELS!
Terrific post Lilith! Thanks so much for the advice and words of wisdom.
We all need to be reminded of these things at least once every day.
Thanks.
Thank you! This is just the pep talk I needed this week. I’ve been stuck in the same scene for over a week now and by the end here, kept eying the shredder.
This one is a keeper for me, so on the days when I’m ready to throw in the towel…I won’t.
I really enjoy reading your posts. Helps to see a mom who is juggling it all. Keep them coming.
Thanks for your words! I need to hear “keep writing, you’re almost there” as much as I can.
I love On Writing and Elements of Style. They are both excellent books and the two “writing” books I own. Well… I take that back. I never got On Writing back from a friend, but I did own it at one point and will again. I’m about due for another read.
Even though I’m not a writer I always enjoy reading your posts like this. I find your advice is applicable to other verbs besides “writing.” So, thanks! Oh, and I want a copy of your YA, too
Zita
i can’t write but what you said makes sense.
This post is awesome! Thank you, Lilith!
I appreciate very much that you wrote “get used to being scared” rather than “don’t be scared.” I think I can do the one whereas I’m at a loss with the other.
Just finished reading On Writing for the second time and own Elements of Style. Need to buy Stephen King’s book.
Excellent post. I needed to hear this, even if to remind myself that every word I write in my novels, plays, or screenplays, is another step toward completion. Like Sisyphus, I’ve pushed that boulder up the mountain. Unlike Sisyphus, though, I intend to push that same boulder over the other side to my goal of publication.
Great advice/ post. I have Stephen King’s book, now to look for the other one.
I always enjoy your writing posts, Lilith, but this one touched a particular nerve with me.
By the way, I gave my Mom “Working for the Devil” for her birthday and she’s enjoying it a lot. Now I hope that the rest of the Dante Valentine series will come out in German soon, so Mom can read them.
Spot on as always. I adore the fact that your writing advice doubles as general life advice. Thanks!
Just had dinner with my mom and was telling her about reading the Dante series (now) for the 3rd time. AND they still make me bawl and ache.
thank you!
Anybody looking for Elements of Style, there’s a 1918 version, pre-EB White, at http://www.bartleby.com:
http://www.bartleby.com/141/
Thanks for sharing:)
I think my life just changed.
First time reader to your blog. Excellent post.
Stephen King’s book is awesome. Totally rocks the writing thing.
Elements of Style is a writer’s bible. EB White is one cool cat.
– Peg
I enjoyed your post. But this is as much writing as I do… So I will keep reading! And leave the writing to the pro”s :O)
Great post and advice. I have Stephen King’s book in my tbr pile, but things just keep popping up in front of it.
My 12 year old daughter wants to start reading Urban fantasy. What are your recommendations for good gateway books? She likes humorous books. Her favorite authors are Ronald Dahl and Beverly Cleary.
I enjoy reading your posts, this one tops them. This advice here has two voices, one for writing, the other for life. Thanks!
Dame Lili,
Your advise came at just the right time for me. That’s why I love you Dames, you build us up (and sometimes knock us down when we need it). Thanks for keepin’ it real ladies!
Great advice. Thank you so much for sharing it.
I always enjoy reading your advice. I like how upfront you are and it helps me get back on my feet and dust myself off.
Thanks!
Thanks so much for the awesome advice!
I agree with all those who posted before me great advice
Yes yes yes!! This is EXACTLY what I’ve been trying to tell some of my writing friends recently. Precisely, absolutely.
THANK YOU for this article!
Haha! Yeah Dame Lilith you’ve pretty much echoed what everyone who cares about me always says: “Stop worrying about whether or not your work has value and what it might be–JUST WRITE and make it the best work you’re capable of producing.” Dagnabbit if y’all aren’t on to something.
Wonderful advice.
I. love. you.
And thanks to you, I’m breathing easier with itchy fingers.
Much appreciated.
Great advice
and please count me in for the contest!
Great advice.
Thank you for imparting your advice. It is refreshing to hear what you have to say because you say it in such a no-nonsense fashion.
Enjoyed the post and keeping my fingers crossed for the contest!
Oh, I can’t wait to read this article when I get back from work today! It will be waiting for me when I get home! I’m sure it’s fantastic advice!
I’m not a writer but I can definitely see how inspirational your advice is Lilith. It’s so kind of you to share these words with aspiring writers. I must admit (reluctantly) that I haven’t read one of your books before. I am planning on it though *scouts honor*. I’ve heard a mix of reviews of a lot of your books and find myself really exciting on forming my own opinion and reading your work.
Thanks,
Mishel
Great post! Thanks for the insight.
gypsyrover21(at)yahoo(dot)ca
Great post,I can’t wait to read Strange Angels
I forgot to add that the thought of reading a YA (one of my favs) by one of my all-time favorite authors gave me the kind of heart palpitations usually reserved for a truly kicking pair of Manolo Blahniks.
Can’t wait to read it!
If Jill used a pen instead of a blade that’s exactly the style of advice she would give- circumstances are weighed and then the essence of the problem is attacked in true bad girl deadly katana style. All this is done with a compassionate heart of someone who has faced the same struggles and dominated becoming the hero in many hearts. Lilith Saintcrow’s passion, for creating wonderful literature that has the power to rip through your bones and capture your soul, is evident in her comments to a fellow writer.
Thank you for the insight to a writer’s continuous internal struggle. You gave me the push I needed to fully commit to my own work.
That was a great post, although I don’t think I’ll be letting you see my bookshelf any time soon. Way to many writing books in there; and I’m not even a writer.
I found this page through Devon Monk’s webpage… I owe her a thanks!
I make my living doing research and writing reports, and if I’ve learned one thing (post-grad school) it’s that a hard deadline is this writer’s best friend. With no deadline, I’ll work and re-work pages… “maybe it’d be better to describe it THIS way”. But with that deadline, I’m able to reach that balance between the need to produce a perfect product and the understanding that I MUST stop writing at some point.
The thing I like about my writers’ group (as I branch out into fiction) is that “hard deadline”. I can create a little timeline for myself in the 2 weeks between meetings… “I have agreed to produce x number of pages by the next meeting.” The feedback is often helpful, the deadline is ALWAYS helpful
Aawesome post! Can’t wait to read Strange Angels!
I’m the friend that Liana Brooks mentioned. I have to say that this piece you have written will keep me coming back for me. You think along the very same lines that I do, and I commend you for the honesty in your own advice that you have given us.
I write in layers. I think in layers. I love that you do, too. To many, it seems to be a foreign concept. I write about it a lot on my blog.
I also believe that the spark you speak of is a concept that we writers rarely stop to ponder. I know there is a spark in each novel I write, but like you said, I can’t see it. I trust and love my beta readers.
Thank you for some good advice.
Great post Dame Lili! Looking forward to Strange Angels.
Your writing advice is always excellent.
I’d love to have this one. Great to see another good YA series starting up.
I definitely agree that someone will never be completely happy with their work.
Thanks so much for this! (and the two referenced books as well!) I was wondering if I should even get into the writing books, so the advice was very welcome.
Thanks again for your posts, I always look forward to them.
Will check out _On Writing_, and thoughts on nonfiction writing?
Awesome advice. =) On Writing is just plain fun to read, whether you’re a writer or not.
On a home improvement show I heard a couple call themselves “90%ers.” I loved it–that’s me! The last bit’s absolute torture.
Congrats on the YA book!
Thanks for sharing. Your post is filled with great wisdom and advice.
Thank you for your straight forward advice on writing. I’ve requested The Elements of Style from the library.
Great article!
Also, because I’m shameless, I hope it’s not too late to comment for the contest!
I love the image of an author reaching for that red felt pen even for a published work. I feel cheered by it, and I’m determined to write some tonight! Even if what I write is not what others expect, as you said, it’s what I love to write and what the characters demand. I’ll have to get used to the idea of writing the “unacceptable” stuff, but you definitely helped me get started! Thanks for this post.
Thanks very much for the advice. A realistic outlook helps put things into perspective.
I’ve actually been thinking along these same lines, though I didn’t have such eloquent answers as you. Thank you for writing this.
Yay! Go, go! I can’t stand Bukowski, but I love your writer’s version of ECT.
My sister had a saying that I think can be applied here. Your books are so good that, while I’m reading them, I see only the gold!
Great advice. Thanks.
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