I am in a funk. No getting around it. And I apologize beforehand for any whining that may occur {cue world’s smallest violin}.
A few days ago I submitted my third novel, and sometime this week I should have more edits to do for my first…one step closer to my book being released. And I was really excited about it-but now I’m in a funk. My mind keeps zipping from one idea to another. For a few days I got a million story ideas, and then there’s this series I’m halfway through-I definitely want to finish that.
The very same reason I was so proud the other day is the reason I’m feeling so restless. I have been sitting at my computer for a year, writing, and my book isnt out yet. I’m worried about its reception. What if I’m crazy and I’ve just been kidding myself? What if no one wants to hear my stories? What if I’m a great big flop? And yes-I hear the whine in my own voice and its irritating me as well.
I’m reading Harry Potter. Slowly-because Cookie and I are reading aloud to each other, a few chapters a night. Its an HP tradition, plus neither of us wants the other to know what happens before we do. Of course, reading a series that has so tightly gripped the world’s imagination while you are going through a mini dark night of the author’s soul is a double edged sword. On the one hand inspiring, on the other hand…well, that would be whining and I wont put you through any more of that. 
I think I am impatient for the other shoe to drop-whether it be a Cinderella slipper or a big, metal-toed boot aimed for my head-you know? Some sign that my path is true, that I’m not delusional. Sadly, I hear many of these concerns don’t go away, even when you’ve sold a dozen books, have an agent and are signing autographs for fans. I’m just in a strange sort of Purgatory right now. And I do not like it one bit.
But I make you a promise right now. Next Tuesday I’ll have something interesting and positive to say. And I’ll climb out of this funk and realize once again how blessed and lucky I am to be doing something I love. To have the opportunity to share with others the strange imaginings and characters that rattle around in my head. And that I have so much support around me while I’m spreading these new and colorful wings.
July 30th, 2007 at 11:10 am
Sweets, we all go through it. But you ROCK! Seriously, no one brings the thunder like you.
Writers. We’re all a delicate bunch. Good thing we have eachother.
July 30th, 2007 at 11:11 am
I’ll send you a can of Funk-B-Gone. Seriously, you’re well-loved. You have nothing to feel funky about, however, you have every right to feel that way. All writers do! It will pass. I promise.
(((HUGS)))
July 30th, 2007 at 11:21 am
We all go thru funks like that. You’re not alone.
I went thru a 6 month funk after I sold to Harper. On the surface it made absolutely no sense, but it was there. Apparently it has something to do with being human.
*smooches*
July 30th, 2007 at 11:26 am
I was a nervous wreak before my first book came out…so I understand completely! ((((Hugs))))
July 30th, 2007 at 12:25 pm
I know exactly how you feel! I went through that two weeks ago just before my book came out. I could barely function! I’m sure everyone will love it, hon. I know I can’t wait to read it.
July 30th, 2007 at 1:26 pm
Dunno if it helps, but I think this funk you’re in is a natural progression in the life of a writer. Every debut author I’ve ever spoken to has gone through it. The good news is, it doesn’t last! You’ll get excited about writing again, and forget the word ‘funk’ even exists! Except in the good, George Clinton way.
July 31st, 2007 at 2:41 pm
*plays My Heart Bleeds For You on the smallest violin* Get better, RG!
July 31st, 2007 at 6:19 pm
I love how you’re reading Potter out loud! Part of me wishes I savored it more, but instead I devoured it on hardly any sleep.
And I’m convinced that funks are an integral part of the writing cycle. Whenever I get into a funk, I tend to bounce back better than ever. I hope it’s over for you soon!
July 31st, 2007 at 6:44 pm
Ah hon, I think we’ve all been there! It’s not easy. I went through it with my first book. I think it does get easier. Because you start to realize that yes there will be people who don’t like your book, and there’s not a darn thing you can do about it. You also find out some people love it, and vow to read everything else you write!
I also get through the worries by keeping on writing. If you have another book out shortly after, you don’t have time to dwell. It’s harder when you just write the long ones though.
I’ve got four books running through my head right now. Three are started. LOL.
July 31st, 2007 at 10:16 pm
Aw, honey *hugs* Funk is music, not a place to live, silly chica.
Seriously, sweets, I funk out when I finish a book, when Istart a new one, when one releases…funks just seem to be part of the business. On the plus side, so are kickin cover art, good reviews, nice readers, and other authors (of course, we’re all insane, so take that one with a grain of salt) *hugs* We love ya, hon.
August 1st, 2007 at 12:15 am
I posted earlier, but I guess it didn’t go through.
This is totally normal. It probably doesn’t help much to know we all go through it. It may help to know IT ENDS!!!
We lurrrrve ya. Hang in there.
August 2nd, 2007 at 1:04 pm
So sorry you’re in the funks, Doppelganger. It sounds like this is natural and will pass.
Seriously, with all you’ve accomplished, you TOTALLY ROCK!!! You’re a SUPERSTAR!!
Just keep going.
August 2nd, 2007 at 8:20 pm
Ah, the life of a writer and the writer-cycle of life. I hop on my writer-cycle sometimes and run right over the hubby!
Oh, wait, that’s my menstrual-cycle. All joking aside, this too shall pass. I know you are a helluva good writer and you will be back on your high before you know it! (((hugs))) *mwah*
August 3rd, 2007 at 2:08 pm
Ah this is normal. It’s hard, this business is full of self doubt but know that we ALL go through it and we’re ALL there for you!! Really!
(((Hugs)))
August 3rd, 2007 at 5:41 pm
{{{Hugs}}} R.G. - Yes, we writers are a sensitive bunch. We feel things deeply. (I think I heard this in a movie once…LOL) But it’s true. Your funk will pass. We all love you and you’re an awesome writer!!!