the hard way

I heard someone post recently about feeling envious of those who had gotten published without much effort. You know, famous model, actress, singer, whatever, turned author. Or the person who just decided to write a book, did so, sent a few queries out, got the agent they wanted, and voila. And I’ll be the first to admit I get a little twinge of envy when I hear these stories. But it isn’t just jealousy. It’s the part of me that likes a good story and a good story means a challenge, a good story has obstacles and conflict, difficulties and failures along the way toward that goal. So when I hear how easy it was for someone to get published it feels a little like a cheat. I’d rather hear the story where someone has the talent but maybe they don’t apply themselves so it takes them longer, or maybe their efforts are derailed by some event that takes precedence over writing. Or maybe they’ve just been unlucky and they’re down to the last minutes on their cell phone. Maybe they’re starting to doubt themselves. And then they get the call.


This is the kind of story I want to hear. It satisfies my need for a proper tale with a hero who kills the beast and gets what he/she wanted. It isn’t the easy way. But I wonder if it isn’t more satisfying to get what you hoped for rather than what you expected.

Meanwhile, sunny and brisk here, very little snow, and I’m on chapter 29 in my revision of Grimoire. 23 remaining. Oh, and I finally got a tree which will definitely cheer me up a little. If I can get it decorated tonight I may take a pic and share it with you tomorrow.

What are you doing this weekend?