Making comparisons

I am reading one of Steven Erikson's novels at the moment. It is called 'Deadhouse Gates' and it is part of his 'Malazan book of the fallen' series.

Like his other books this one is riveting and very well written. I am learning a lot from it.

One thing I have noticed is the different approach Steven Erikson has to writing scenes to the way I have done it with my books. Erikson progress a single story line forward through multiple scenes before shifting the viewpoint. I tend to chop and change more.

I may amend my style according as I see a quite a bit of merit in his writing.

There is one danger in making close comparisons to authors like Steven Erikson. Established authors have had time and resources to perfect their craft. They made most of their mistakes years ago behind closed doors and have had the benefit of the resources of publishers to edit and produce books of, generally, high quality. There is no point judging our own 'rough drafts' against the finished products of writers at the peak of their powers.

But we can learn valuable lessons.

I think confidence in our own storytelling ability is absolutely essential. It is not a sprint to the finish but a long hard slog to learn the craft of writing a novel. I think that when we study other peoples work we should not fall into the trap of thinking 'I can't do that'. Instead say 'I can learn to do this.'

Everyone on this planet has the potential to be a good storyteller. Writing well is something we all can do. I intend to be the best I can be. So should everyone else.

Mindful Writing

So it is nearly the end of February already?

2014 is flying by. Rather like the previous year did. Oh well.

It has been such a good time for me. The last year has been a bit of a renaissance period. At least as far as my writing and storytelling is concerned.

In the last six months I have quadrupled the rate at which I write. I have also gained valuable insight into how I put stories together and how I can improve this process. I am halfway through my science fiction novel 'Shadows of Earth' and I already can see how the second draft will go. I am excited but one draft at a time please.

By the end of the year I will (possibly) have two complete full length novels drafted. Publication will depend on available resources. I hope to be in print (and on screen) with something by Christmas 2014

So why is it going so well?

My sister gave me an amazing present this year. A book on 'Mindfulness'. I already am a practitioner of meditation but I am been rather inefficient in the way I had approached the activity. By focusing on the 'here and now' and 'letting go' of all the tittle tattle and unnecessary noise I was carrying round in my head I sharpened my attention and unlocked more energy.

I work better as a consequence. My stories are taking shape in an improved manner. I am making progress.

Looking after the needs of the mind is as important as keeping a health body. Writers need to do both. It helps us live better lives and it also assists us to be better at our craft.

And 'Mindfulness' is fun!