April 4, 2009
Today was one of those days when the writing goes slowly…when it’s a struggle to make the word count quota and even more of a struggle to make the words read well. Such days can have many causes, but I know what the problem was this time. It was the fact that I’m starting a section with lots of question marks left in the plot, so I’m making up a lot more as I go along. Plus which, this new section starts with some heavy setting description, and I’m working to make the setting very unique. That all takes more time than writing a section with a lot of dialogue or one I’ve already fully plotted. In other words, sometimes it’s like I already have everything sketched out in my mind, and writing it is like connecting the dots…but at other times, it’s more like I’m making everything up whole cloth on the spot, with nary a dot in sight. Still, I did get through it; I just hope the work is good. It’s hard to tell, actually; as my mentor, Dean Smith, has often told me, “A writer is not a judge of his own work.” Meaning writers like me tend to have blinders when it comes to our own creations.
Now for today’s photo. This one’s from the Wildernest, a fabulous inn in the mountains of West Virginia. You won’t believe the scenic views, the fantastic food, and the plentiful wildlife. Deer and bears everywhere. It’s a wonderful place, and I hope Wendy and I can get back there soon. See you tomorrow!
Wildernest Inn, Petersburg, West Virginia, July, 2004
