Every author's publishing journey is unique. Some write several books before one of them is published. Some hit the jackpot with their very first one. I happen to be one of those writers that has several finished novels under my belt but not one of them has been published... yet I seem to be doing just fine with my shorter works.
It's all good. No complaints here.
But every story I write carries a piece of me inside it, whether that story is published or not. Two years ago I wrote my first YA novel (my third novel overall). There was a lot of interest in this novel from publishing professionals but ultimately, after a certain number of rejections and more personalized feedback than I could have ever hoped for, I pulled it out of submissions and set it aside for a rewrite.
Two years later, I've finally figured out how to approach that rewrite. I can honestly say I'm glad the book was never acquired by an agent or editor when I first offered it. The book wasn't ready, and neither was I. The experience I've gained over the past two years has enabled me to understand the craft and the market more fully.
I always knew what I wanted to accomplish with that story, but I can see clearly now that it's original form did not accomplish that at all. Sometimes it just isn't the right time for a book, or for an author, to be published. That doesn't mean it will never be the right time.
My original inspiration for the story hasn't changed, and I'd like to share that with you today, in hopes of my someday being able to also share with you the story itself.
Sorry if you're getting tired of all my Blue October talk lately (but really, who could ever tire of Blue October?), but they have inspired much of my writing and my personal views in life. This particular song will always have a special place in my heart, because it will always remind me of the very first YA novel I ever wrote.
Every time I hear this song I remember that I still have big plans for that story, and it inspires me all over again.
What a great song! Loved it.
ReplyDeleteHey Lydia, this is great advice. It's all about patience and perseverance and it's easy to forget that sometimes. Thanks for the timely reminder. And, like you said, you're now able to analyse your work with the same eye as the publishing professionals; that in itself is an achievement!
ReplyDeleteExcellent post and a great reminder that sometimes the timing just isn't right. That doesn't make us, or our work, worthless.
ReplyDeleteGreat post, and I really enjoyed the song as well. Thanks for posting. We all need to hear this sometimes.
ReplyDeleteThanks, everyone! I'm glad you like the song as much as I do. Good luck with your personal writing journeys, too!
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