Sunday, October 13, 2013

In Times of Editing

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I'm having difficulty being patient with the editing process. It's not that I dislike editing, but - I think - that editing is slow. At least for me. I think if I had a longer block of time to do editing, it would be easier.

What happens often is that I feel like I just get started with editing and it's time to stop. The other side of it is that sometimes I need to take breaks from editing. What I'm trying right now is working on a chapter at a time. I know I have to work on the overall flow, too - but the structure of the M-book works with the sectional approach. So I guess part of my writing practice right now includes patience.

Patience with the process. Patience with editing. Patience with the rewrites and writing new sections taking longer than I would like. Patience that completion of this project is delayed by all of this wonderful new energy and information, insights.

Patience.

Writing practice.

Editing.

Old material; new information. New energy.

Oh, and getting ready for NaNoWriMo. I have my mid-NaNovember writing retreat planned and the place reserved. It's a beautiful upper level of a home at the coast. I've been there once before and when I checked the availability, most of November was booked except for the few days I was looking at. I think it was meant to be. I think I have an idea for my 2013 NaNoNovel - but I'm not completely set on that idea yet. I've entered the temporary title on my NaNoAuthor page, just to let it float and see what happens energetically. But the NaNoExcitement has started.

I think that's part of my key to surviving editing, too - having another project in the works. No, I know that's part of my editing survival. I don't hate editing - but it takes a different focus and energy and I need the creating new work outlet.

I will also be taking an online poetry writing class through the Literary Kitchen in November, as well. It's with Daphne Gottlieb and it's poetry, plus. That will be fun and bring new energy to my writing. It's been a long time since I've done a poetry workshop and I'm looking forward to that.

I have a writing friend who says there is a rule of three for writers: to have three different projects in the works so you have variety and don't get stuck. So there is a place to keep writing, keep it fresh, keep the flow moving. Maybe he's right.

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