I think 2020 was a death of sorts for this blog.
I wonder if 2021 will see a rebirth.
Throughout the pandemic, I have taken so many notes, and started several drafts. But then the window of time to finish my thoughts disappears, and the impulse fades. By the time I come back to my words, they no longer compel me, or are simply outdated.
There’s nothing wrong with that, in and of itself. In fact, sometimes I contribute more to the world by saying less. (And frankly, I wish more people would come to this same realization.)
But writing well is as much about practice as talent or genius — maybe more so — and I don’t want to get too rusty.
I suppose if anything is going to make it “to print,” it must be finished quickly. I must finish it. Set aside perfectionist tendencies. Seize upon the moment, rather than hoping for more time later.
Maybe, too, I should think smaller, as I advised in my most recent post for Writer Unboxed.
Speaking of small… A personal and professional highlight from 2020:
I wrote a “Tiny Love Story” and it was accepted for publication in the New York Times, appearing in both their digital and print editions!
4 responses to “New year, still here (ish)”
This year and last have been… a lot. I’m glad you’re still here and doing the work, no matter how small. Blogging will still be here whenever you feel like it. Hoping 2021 turns out better than 2020 for you <3
Thanks, T.S.!
“But writing well is as much about practice as talent or genius — maybe more so — and I don’t want to get too rusty.”
This is the point, I think — to make time or space when it doesn’t seem to be there. “Seize upon the moment, rather than hoping for more time later.” as you say.
As a friend of mine used to say, “tomorrow” (meaning that day with all that extra time) is an illusion. When I have a day off from work, I usually make a list of things to do — enough for at least three actual days. They don’t all get done, of course.
I’m working on a new story (steadily, but very slowly) and it’s turning out to be a lot more complex (and longer) than I anticipated, but that happens sometimes.
Your friend is wise. List-making is wise too. I’ve been doing more of that, lately.
Good luck with your new story!