Tuesday, November 3, 2009

Why on earth was I writing non-fiction?

Fiction is my home! I adore writing fiction!

I'm excited. I'm satisfied. My characters are becoming real and I'm still in the first chapter!

And there are already twists that I didn't see coming. It is just the most amazing thing to be typing away when all of a sudden, you pause, realizing that your characters have taken you to a place you hadn't created for them. These fictional, imaginary characters somehow dictate what happens!

I just read what I've written so far to Scott. He was astounded! (No, I'm not bragging. Only being honest.) He was engrossed in the story, loved the character development, could easily imagine the setting and most of all, can't wait to hear more!

I've never felt comfortable reading my writing aloud. I imagine it to be something like a baby beauty contest. Putting your most prized possession on display, asking for judgment. Ouch! I cringe just thinking about it.

But read my story, I did. And I actually didn't feel too much pain. Just a bit of self-induced anxiety that I pushed away by turning off the lights and making Scott close his eyes.

I'm taking that as another sign that writing fiction is my true calling. And you want to know an even bigger sign?

I smile when I write.

Scott tells me that when I concentrate, whether it's at work or when I'm writing my non-fiction book, I tend to scowl. It's just that I'm mired so deeply in concentration that there's no emotion to show. Getting the job done is intense.

But I've noticed that when I'm writing this novel, I smile. I giggle. I've even caught myself bouncing.

How entirely cool is that????

3 comments:

Valerie Geary said...

Yay!!!!!! Welcome to the wonderful world of fiction!!! Isn't it delightful! I love that you love it! :)

Unknown said...

I can't wait to see it, hear it, read it! How exciting!

Ashley S said...

Hi! I just stumbled on your blog from a help topic (looking for more subs) and I think it's great!

I am a writer as well, so I know what you mean about the characters just uprooting and taking off on their own. Aww... reading this inspired me. I've been doing a lot of poetry, but I miss character development! :)

I'm subscribing to your blog :)