In Hindsight
Whenever I finish a manuscript, I think it’s the best thing I’ve ever written. Which I suppose is true considering that I continue to learn with every new project. But it’s funny how I’ll think a manuscript is “perfect” and somehow be completely blind to its shortcomings. Clarity, it seems, only comes in hindsight.
My first manuscript was a YA fantasy centered around the relationship between a brother and sister in a world where people can travel through their dreams. It was so fun to write and was purely a “let’s see if I can write a novel” novel. I learned about what Stephen King calls the writer’s toolbox—basic grammar, how to construct dialogue, vary sentence structure, and craft paragraphs that flow. In hindsight, I know there were flaws with plotting, character development, and, well, pretty much everything else. But I was hooked!
My second manuscript was another YA fantasy following a displaced mermaid tribe in search of a new home. There were dual POVs and, inevitably, romance. While the world was clearer and the characters more developed, the main thing it lacked was voice. I also learned the importance of having tension inherent in every scene, how to incorporate subplots, and more about plot structure. Onto the next one!
For my third manuscript, I joined the exciting world of mystery writing with a cozy starring a financial analyst whose cube neighbor is murdered on a fateful Monday morning. With this story, I finally found my voice (thanks in large part to reading Donald Maass’ Writing the Breakout Novel), but struggled with more subtle pitfalls. My MC’s internal dialogue is tad overdone, and her motivation to solve the murder mystery isn’t quite strong enough. (I’m currently working on a last round of edits which will hopefully rectify these issues).
My next book will be another cozy (zero draft already written, huzzah!) and my goal is to incorporate everything I’ve already learned, continue growing as an author, and write my strongest story yet.
I wonder what I’ll learn in hindsight next…
What have you learned in hindsight? Do you view past art projects differently now than when you first completed them?
What I’m reading: A Court of Mist and Fury by Sarah J. Maas
What I’m listening to: Radiohead — A Moon Shaped Pool
I’ve had mixed reaction to my own first drafts. I just finished the draft to my second River’s Edge series book — took too long to write (moved to a new place) and I didn’t like it. Figured it had to go to beta readers anyway, and they really liked it. Safe to say, I trust my judgment — mostly. As long as it stays fun…
Thanks for your comment, Elaine! Beta readers are incredibly helpful and their feedback is invaluable. And you’re absolutely right: as long as it stays fun! 🙂