JULIA SPENCER-FLEMING: No, it's NOT done yet, dear readers. This is absolutely the worst part of the book for me - the ending. I swear, if I could just publish manuscripts that were 5/8 done and crowdsource the endings, I'd get books out - gosh, who knows, maybe every three years instead of four!
My issue with getting over the finish line is partly me, and partly the nature of the genre. For me - honestly, I don't know. I always slow down here, and we know, I'm not that fast to begins with.
Psychological barriers to completion? Fear of success or failure? Not wanting to let go? I've done a lot over the past years to improve my scheduling and organization; maybe now it's time for therapy.
The nature of the genre is such that the end of any sort of crime fiction is usually 1) the high point of action and 2) has to tie all the threads together. For the first, well, I'm known for my action sequences. I like them. The readers seem to like them. But they are HARD! Making sure the reader knows who is doing what, where in space and when in a sequence of events... sometimes it feels more like planning a multi-person jaunt through an unfamiliar city via public transportation.
As for tying the threads together - I can only point out I have more than one unfinished piece of very elaborate needlepoint. Oh, I just LOVE adding more and more and more threads. Figuring out what to DO with them... not so much.
However, I am progressing. In fact, if I didn't write such #$%& long books, I'd be done now, or close to it. Alas, I don't seem to have any more control over the length of my stories than I do anything else. Truly, writing is a mysterious process.
This is the place where I would usually put some hopefully interesting question that would stimulate lots and lots of backblog comments. Instead, I have a favor to ask. Will you, dear readers, be my accountability partners? I'm highly motivated by guilt (if you had met my mother, you'd understand) so if one of you asks "Julia, have you written today" EVERY DAY until I finish, I'll be too embarrassed not to write. Don't all do it, for goodness sake, that would be a nightmare. Just one person.
TIA, Julia
I seriously doubt that readers consider how difficult it must be for writers to turn out book after book after book . . . .
ReplyDeleteHowever, I'd be hard-pressed to be thoughtless [?] enough to pester you every day about your writing, Julia, but I have to admit to being just a tad anxious to find out what Clare and Russ are up to now, so . . . .
Joan, I almost addressed you personally, because I know how much you want another book! Plus, you're always here first, so I never miss your comments :-)
DeleteI don’t care how long it takes as long as we keep having Russ and Claire books ❤️
DeleteJulia, have you written today?
ReplyDeleteXo
I have to get through these comments first, Ann!
DeleteI absolutely LOVED this post! And where did you find that wonderful page about Mr. Earbrass? Far from nagging you about writing, I found this post so reassuring! I've been working on my latest book for two years, now (interrupted by the move to Portugal and back and forth trips tying up loose ends, but still . . .) and I'm only getting settled back into it again. Given that you actually have turned out so many books and are so successful, I think you are doing great!
ReplyDeleteThanks, Elizabeth. The page is from Edward Gorey's THE UNSTRUNG HARP - required reading for anyone trying to write a book.
DeleteIt looks like Ann has volunteered, but if not, I am happy to be your daily nag, I mean, gentle urger. Let me know.
ReplyDeleteMaybe you need a solo retreat in a quiet cottage somewhere with a goal of finishing. I just canceled out of my week in early May on Cape Cod, if you want it. Starting the week after malice, and highly affordable, the cottage is quiet and lovely and it's about a 20 minute walk to the beach.
Edith, if I don't have it finished this month, I'll email you for the information! Retreating to Cape Cod would be definitely be preferable to flinging myself into Casco Bay.
DeleteYou deserve a lovely retreat. Your books are worth waiting for, and I know this one will be wonderful. <3
Delete. . . and I'll happily do an early review. -- Mary
DeleteAnd if Ann and Edith need a day or two off duty, I’m here. Write well, Julia. I miss my days in Millers Kill. Elisabeth
ReplyDeleteThanks, Elisabeth!
DeleteI won't try to nag you into finishing the book, but I am soooo eager to read it, Julia. Please...
ReplyDeleteYou know, I see your picture every time I log into my FB page, and sometimes I think, 'Annette is writing two books a year, you can manage one book in two years!'
DeleteJulia: Stay the course. Keep the faith. Please write a little bit more...I am so worried about Kevin...
ReplyDeleteI am also worried about Kevin, but will not nag you. I HATE being nagged!
DeleteI hate being nagged as well, which is why it works for me!
DeleteNagging makes me stubborn! I am less likely to do anything that has involved nagging.
DeleteJulia, I too ADORE Mr. Earbrass! Where in the world did you find that? It's so perfect. (I will of course be your daily nag, just say the word.) xo Lucy
ReplyDeleteI just searched for The Unstrung Harp, Lucy. Loads of images out there, often posted by other writers - Mt. Earbrass speaks to us all!
DeleteYou've done it before, pulled the magic rabbit out of the hat of imagination, Julia, and you can do it again.
ReplyDeleteLuckily, you and Mr. Earbrass do not share the dullness of your first novels. Yours would induce insomnia only because it's so exciting!
Oh, bless you, Karen!
DeleteFar be it from me to nag you about anything. Who are Russ and Clare again? Did I meet them in a book or two?
ReplyDeleteI know, right? If I linger too long, I'll only have three or four readers left!
DeleteJulia, you WILL get there! We are all sure of that and your book will be fabulous, as they all are. But, I'm sorry, you can't count on me - I am simply not a nag. Someone tells me they will do something, well then I have faith they will do it, without my constant pushing. Btw, this has not always worked out well for me, but it is what it is.
ReplyDeleteThat said, sit down and write!
Judi, that is EXACTLY what my mom would say when I whinged to her about having trouble working. Thank you, I need to hear her voice again.
DeleteI'm at the 3/4 point and 60,000 words in the first draft of my WIP. I just changed my planned ending (drama! pathos! tears!) for something quieter that achieves the same result. I would like to wrap up this draft by Easter. Yes, I can send a morning nudge if you'll do the same for me. Focus. Coffee in hand. Backside in chair. Nothing new in the news.
ReplyDeleteMargaret, one of the things that's helped me a lot is Freedom, the website-blocking software. I am a bit of a news junkie, and it keeps me from accessing any of my subscriptions until 3PM. And it's true, there's never anything important to me personally that I've missed.
DeleteJulia, I'm going to look into that. My husband and I and our two adult children are all news junkies. I read the news and Heather Cox Richardson and then mid-day I get updates from the NYT, the Washington Post, AND the Guardian! Plus "breaking news!" Your comment made me wonder if perhaps I could... delay the onslaught. (Selden)
DeleteSending loving attention. I would never nag, but sometimes we all need supportive attention to figure things out. Your books are amazing, as is Mr. Earbrass! I have great faith in your ability to finish this project. I can't wait to read it.
ReplyDeleteGillian, may I use “supportive attention” to encourage myself and friends who are in rough spot? Great words. Elisabeth
DeleteI love the idea of "supportive attention!"
DeleteOf course, Anonymous!
DeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteJULIA: I won't be a nag. Instead, I will be silently cheering you on as you work your way to the finish line. And hoping that Blogger will stop acting weird!
ReplyDeleteOne thing is for sure in these uncertain times: Julia will write “the end”, long before Blogger even considers not acting weird! Elisabeth with a very silly grin.
DeleteElisabeth's right about that, for sure!
DeleteBlogger does not interact well with Apple devices. Therefore, blogger a Google product will never change. :)
DeleteJULIA: You got it. If it is any consolation to you, I prefer shorter books. It is rare fir me to read a long book because there are more pages to read on ebooks than the pages in a print book. Like Grace, I will be silently cheering you on as you work your way to the finish line.
ReplyDeleteDiana
Thanks, Diana!
DeleteI agree Bibliophile! I think about 300 is a good page number, especially for a mystery novel.
ReplyDeleteJulia - just one page at a time. One foot in front of the other.
Agreed that 300 pages is a good number.
DeleteIt is, right? It's just... that's never where the story ends for me. It used to frustrate poor Ross to no end. He'd ask, "How much longer to the end?" And I'd have to say, "I'll know when I get there."
DeletePersevere! It doesn’t have to be good, Julia, it just has to be done. Right now, just write anything. You can fix it later.
ReplyDeleteThat's what I keep reminding myself, Hank. I love Nora Robert's saying: I can fix anything except a blank page.
DeleteJulia, I’m not a nag. However, I would like to read your next book before I finish reading all the other books on my TBR piles and piles of books!
ReplyDeleteDebRo
That's quite an honor, DebRo!
DeleteHugs, Julia. I wish I lived closer so we could have writing sprints together (assuming those would help). I did it once and just wrote the same frustrated word over and over. Here is some Robert Frost wisdom, which I know you know but still -- "The only way out is through!." You've got this!
ReplyDeleteHuh? The Robert Frost quote sounds more like George Patton! Still good advice and with Frost it’s much less bloody… —Pat S
DeleteHokay. Nagging is not in my nature. And I know we've heard it a bajillion times: professional writers make product.
ReplyDeleteExcept we're not assembling parts into a thing or making doughnuts from a recipe.
As I loosely paraphrase Becca Syme from the Better Faster Academy, we're pulling ideas out of our imaginations for a my-mind-to-your-mind transfer.
And, frankly, our imaginations are tired from working overtime. Especially now.
Anyway, just an idea--feel free to take it or leave it--maybe it's time to take a breath and revisit your why for this particular idea?
Were you at the Crime Bake when Sue Grafton was GoH? She talked about working with her Shadow in some freewriting exercises to write about her writing. BTW, Becca also recommends writing about writing when you're stuck.
So, maybe park your "go fever" for a moment (I know. It's hard) and give your mind space to ponder. Of all the ideas flying around in the ether and inside your brain, why did this one "take?" Maybe remember who you were then (hey, I'm different than I was last year) and what you were thinking then.
Or maybe watch some action TV or movies, but not to steal. Russ isn't John Wick, and Claire isn't that Halle Berry character.
I know what I said flies in the face of conventional wisdom. But you use black marks on a page to get into peoples' imaginations to let them live with people who never existed doing things I hope no reader has to experience. When it all works, the readers feel emotions. Your mind to my mind. FWIW, you're good at this.
I got all wordy because I need to talk myself into doing the same exercise. I'm starting a new book. For the first one, at this point, I knew how it ended. I don't like not knowing my destination, even though I often take the scenic route to get there.
So, good luck! And much love.
Those are some wonderful ideas, Rhonda, and I'm happy to see another Becca Symes fan. I've got several of her book on audio, and I'm working my way through her podcast while cooking in the evening. Sometimes, just hearing someone say, "This is normal," is a boost.
DeleteAll I can say is that although I cannot wait for your next book, don't change a thing. It may be a slower process than you like, but the results are worth it. So go walk those dogs and plunge back in.
ReplyDeleteThank you, Anon!
DeleteI know what you need, Julia. Remember choose your own adventure series? You write the book then ask the reader to decide whodunit and finish the story her way! Then you never have to write an ending!
ReplyDeleteI'm literally laughing out loud, Rhys. If only!
DeleteSending you love and hugs, Julia. I’m the queen of procrastination and can tell you that nagging just annoys me. I don’t think you’re procrastinating, but if nagging motivates you, others may provide it for you. I want you to finish, but at your pace and comfort level. (Edith’s offer does sound awfully nice, though.). — Pat S
ReplyDeleteA cottage in Cape Cod always makes things better, doesn't it, Pat? :-)
DeleteGive yourself grace. Breathe. It will come. Three cheers for you!
ReplyDeleteYou know, Anon, that's a good idea. I should try some simple breathing exercises when I feel stuck at the keyboard.
DeleteI’m a big fan and love the series!
DeleteTake good care.
I have to say, I've been up for over two hours, buzzing around doing chores and bringing in wood, paying bills online, and it wasn't until I opened up JRW to add to the comments that I remembered... today is my day! This is what I'm fighting against, people.
ReplyDeleteI wish I had a nagger, but I'm afraid I'd just feel guiltier and never get going again. Last night I faced the blank page and balked. So I designed bookmarks instead as freebies for my author events. I managed to accomplish one small task remotely related to writing. Not suggesting you do the same, but stop thinking "OMG! THE DREADED ENDING is upon me!!!!" What is the next sentence you need to write to lead into the next scene? Do that instead. As Hank said, it doesn't even need to be a good sentence. This you can do! We all have faith in you; let that wrap around you warmly and hold you as you get through the last bit.
ReplyDeleteP.S. I love Mr. Earbrass!
Thanks, Anon. I'm trying to focus on one step after the other, and reminding myself if I only get three pages written in a day, well, that's three more than I had yesterday.
DeleteYou, I'm relying on for in-person accountability!
ReplyDeleteSit, stay, write! Please
ReplyDeleteEndings are hard for me, too. So I understand. You'll get there!
You, and your creative self, my very dear friend, are always worth the wait. (I have a similar procrastination problem with all my Special Education paperwork at this time of year; I want to do it but at times, it feels like an overweight albatross just getting the words on the reports.)
ReplyDeleteI think we “lay people” don’t even consider the dynamics of writing, the careful plotting, planning and organization of putting together something that feels so real when we read it. You, have a remarkable ability to do just that. Stop beating yourself up (I can say that aloud because we’re friends!!😉). Take your time and do what you need to do. If you need to come down and take-in Cossayuharie & Miller’s Kill for inspiration, there is a room with your name on it here. I will continue to support you (only if you will get after me as well!!)
With that said, “Have you written anything today?” 🤷🏼♀️✍️
Julia, get off this blog and do your writing!
ReplyDeleteI can nag with the best of them! :)
DeleteJulia, I know exactly what you mean on the fear of failure and the reluctance to let go--after all, we've lived with our characters for (mumble mumble) months/years. The only way I know to combat it is the "just write a page" (or maybe two...) and you WILL get there!! Maybe we could co-encourage each other??
ReplyDeleteJoan Emerson is certainly an early riser, and always first to comment so - she'll keep you on your toes, Julia. Me - I'm a night owl so early morning is certainly not for me, but - I am always saying to my friends how much I just marvel at folks, such as the Reds, that can write the stories that keep me SO entertained. It really is something that is even beyond my imagination - how does one write a novel and just keep on going. With that said - you'll get there, Julia - like the little engine that could :) By the way - I'm right with you regarding baseball. I am actually sitting here watching my beloved Red Sox playing the Nationals during Spring Training!! GO JULIA - GO RED SOX!!!!!
ReplyDeleteJulia, Have you written anything in your book since you launched this post, or have you devoted yourself (diligently, selflessly, generously, blah, blah, blah), to responding to our comments?! A very dear friend who is my mother's age was the kind soul who first recommended your books to me. She is eager to read your new installment, but as I said, she is my mother's age - and I am yours! So write, lady, write!!! (Written with love and understanding, since I am here, typing away on JRW and not on my own manuscript!)
ReplyDeleteI'm using the writing I'm doing to promote the book coming out in April as a way of procrastinating on starting Book #5, which doesn't seem to want to move beyond a few scattered ideas and characters. I'm telling you in case it's some small comfort to know that you're not the only one feeling stuck at the moment. My mother always used to say about troubles, "This, too, shall pass." It's melodramatic, but I found it comforting at the time, so now I'm trying to apply it to my own lack of current progress. Things do improve--sometimes all one can do it wait.
ReplyDeleteWell, given you've made it to the finish line 9 times before with addictive results ... I predict you'll do it yet again ... & I'm hoping that you're not done with their story for awhile ... & if you decide to finish their story before you retire I'm sure you've got some other great imaginary friends in the corners of your mind just waiting to jump onto the page
ReplyDeleteJulia, I know you can do this. You are so talented, and I have listened to your books so many times, I have some of them memorized. I look forward to seeing this next book in my Audible list. God bless you!
ReplyDeleteJust write something. Please.
ReplyDeleteA dark chocolate break of any kind usually helps me get going again! Either that or just walking a circle from kitchen to formal living room to front hall to dining room to mud room to laundry room to the kitchen. Or taking the stairs from the kitchen to the front hall and then those same stairs from the front hall to the second floor! Deep breath - in and out! Big Sigh!
ReplyDeleteOh I will nag. Will bring a bull horn and signs and yell "what about Kevin?" Will whimper so ooold can't wait much longer. I know the wood pile won't wait, everyone knows you. are. Almost done. Finish already or me and signs will be coming.
ReplyDeleteSee if my incoherent post gets blogged your great stuff will prevail
DeleteJulia, have you eaten today? Have you gotten sufficient rest? And are you taking good care of yourself? Ok, forget all of that, and let's get to the important matter. Julia, have you written today? Oh, I know you'll say you have to take those adorable doggies out, but dogs usually do their business rather quickly, so don't blame the sweet dogs. Time to focus and write. Get some snacks and maybe a pot of tea of coffee set up beside you, so you don't have to get up to go get them, and for heaven's sake, don't eat all your snacks before you start writing. And, don't spend time talking to people about being stuck at a hard part. Write!!!!
ReplyDeleteHow about taking just one of your ongoing characters and just focus on a story line for that person then go on to the next one. After you do this for each of the primary players link them to another one until you can connect them all to the point where you left off and you can proceed with the plot.
ReplyDeleteI’m sure it’s not that simple since I’m not a writer and I don’t think I could get to the point that you have and certainly not to what you have achieved over your writing career, but perhaps if you break down each person’s role you’ll be able to insert them into the larger role.
Don’t forget the tortoise and the hare.
My husband is an executive coach and he advises clients to get an accountability partner which may be positive spin for having someone who nags you. Lots of offers here today ~Emily Dame
ReplyDeleteJulia, I would never dream of nagging you daily about staying on task. Writing comes from the spirit, and that can’t be rushed. All Alexander says is “when you are done writing, you have more time for trains and travel.”
ReplyDeleteI will not volunteer, only because I probably wouldn't post in time. Day job. And I like sleeping in on weekends.
ReplyDeleteBut I'm eager to see the next book. Just sayin'.
So Julia, it is now almost midnight on March 8th. How is it going? Be encouraged! You may not need to write every day but you ned to think every day. Words and solutions come easier if you have plotted them and all their variations in your head before you sit at your typewriter! Am I ageing myself by referring to a typewriter? Four fingers of scotch also helps! Cheers!
ReplyDeleteJulia
ReplyDeleteAre you close to the ocean at home in Maine ? Maybe the waves will help!
Linda S