Whenever I tell people that I’m writing a book, I always get two or three responses.
“Like- a real book? Like, to publish?” This, out of the rest, infuriates me the least. Currently, I am in the process of editing my first novel for the fifth time. This book is like my baby, and working on it for the last three years has immunized me against this sort of comment.
“Give me a free copy when you’re done!” Get real. The thing is, this never comes from friends or family. Writing a book is taxing. It takes a toll on you. The publishing company can be pushy, and it’s not an easy process for you to go through. I understand the intentions, but folks, I get this three or four times a day sometimes. It’s said in this joking way that makes me want to take my ears out with the nearest sharp object.
“I’ve always planned on writing a book one day. When I get the time, of course.” Out of every other answer, this one is the absolute worst. People who say this are never going to actually write something. A book is something that needs to be written. If you are currently unwilling, it is unlikely you will be willing in the future. It is not a passive process that happens all on its own like your digestive system (presumably) or photosynthesis. You don’t sit back and let the words flow.
Often, it is an excruciating process. You need to force the words out, even if you can barely get more than a few sentences down on paper. Actually, it’s a lot like taking a dump, if that helps you visualize the process.
If you say that you’ve always wanted to write a book, then write a book. Don’t sit around waiting for it to happen. It won’t. You are the only one who can do it. Don’t ‘plan’ or ‘want’. You will not get anything done if you’re waiting for some magical ‘inspiration’ to float by and give you a boost. It rarely happens, even to the best of us.
Also, it does imply that I have ‘the time’. We all have ‘the time’. Five minutes here, three minutes there. There is time, even if you have to scramble to get it. I work a full-time job. Sometimes, I’m so tired I can barely keep my eyes open. But I use those minutes, forty-five-minute lunch break, sitting in traffic. If you are determined, I believe you can do it. You can achieve it, if you put in the time an effort. I hate the assertion that I have ‘the time’, because in reality, I don’t have much free time.
The point is, just don’t be a douche.
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