Squeezing in a Novel
I’m so sorry I haven’t posted for what seems forever. You see, I have this little thing called a deadline staring me in the face like bug-eyed rodeo bull. Here’s the bottom line, I have to finish an 80,000 word novel by September 1 and as of today, July 2 I have about 12,000 written. Now, the way I figure it, if my math is correct, that means I have to average1,133 words a day . . . every day.
That may not sound too bad but consider this, that’s to finish the first draft. I don’t want to turn in a first draft. As any serious writer knows–as any casual writer knows–first drafts are not that impressive. I’d like to leave myself at least a week to polish the first draft and turn in a second draft (still not desirable but it’ll have to do). So my new numbers say I have to write 1,283 words a day . . . every day. Still doable but totally exhausting.
Now, how am I going to accomplish this? (Here’s your peek inside the lifestyle of a writer working a full-time job, doing family stuff, church stuff, and meeting a deadline). I’ve bee writing every night between the hours of 10:00 and 11:00 (then fall asleep in less than 60 seconds) and every morning from 6:00 to 6:45. Problem is, I get up by 5:30 a.m. so that leaves me getting 6 1/2 hours of sleep a night. By the time 10:00 p.m. rolls around I’m dog tired and have trouble staying awake to write. But . . . this is the life I’ve chosen. I love writing and I’m into my story idea.
I plan to try really hard to keep you posted on my progress. If you’re friends with me on Facebook I’ve also been keeping tabs there.
This should be interesting.
Posted on July 2, 2009, in Uncategorized. Bookmark the permalink. 8 Comments.
You keep writing and we'll keep praying.
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You can do it! Being on a deadline always gives extra gumption.
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Oh my goodness! Thanks for sharing. Now I know how to pray for you, and I will pray for you, Mike. I'm not sure if I could pull that off, but you can with God's help. Just hang in there. God's in control and has a reason for this. Hey, I finished Scream and really enjoyed it. Here's my review: http://northwoodsblumer.blogspot.com/2009/06/scream-by-mike-dellosso.htmlHope you are encouraged to keep pressing on!
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Hi Mike -Praying for you. If you want to put off that interview, I'll understand. :)Blessings,Susan
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If this is the same schedule that brought forth "Scream" … then I will pray for strength, health and encouragement over the next 68,000 words. God Bless
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I am rooting for you Mike! I'm so happy you have another book contracted and can't wait to read it!Keep that lamp burning bright!
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I don't think I get your updates in feedblitz/burner? anymore. I'll need to check into that. I've been wondering how you've been doing.
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If it's anything like trusting in God to provide when you're poor, then you'll find those words and more – like groceries on a doorstep.At least, I hope that's what happens. Maybe you should pencil in one all-nighter a week, just in case. 🙂
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