Every book or writing project is unique. The content changes, the research may be different, the audience may change, even the genre of the book may be different! Each book and each story has a different journey, and carries the writer through an experience unique to that tale. Writing a fictional novel about a genocide in one country for teens would be quite different from writing a story for young children, or a science fiction novel for adults. I believe that determining the difficulty of any work, whether it is the first, third, or fifth, even, depends on these characteristics.
In my case, as I near the publication of my first book, and as I am caught in the middle of working on my next few projects, it’s interesting to compare how it was for me to write the first in relation to the others. For years, ever since I was a young child, I have immersed myself into the studies and experiences of slavery in America, and how it affected the lives of enslaved and free African Americans. Because this was something I was not only passionate about, but something I had studied for a long time, the topic was familiar, and writing my first novel about this history was much easier to put on paper than other projects about different cultures or concepts may be.
There are other things that made the first easier in relation to the others. For example, when I started my first book, my one and only goal was to take the inspiration that was in my heart, and to put it on paper. I remember, on occasion, a relative of mine telling me stories of my ancestor watching, at a very young age, her mother being sold away from her. I envisioned her, standing on the edge of the Mississippi River, staring at her mother’s handkerchief disappearing slowly over the horizon. It was this story, I decided, that I would seek to embody in a fictional piece of work, in one manner or another. I had no intention at the beginning, of writing an entire novel, let alone publishing it! Therefore, in writing the very first draft of my first book, there were no guidelines, no deadlines, no expectations, no concerns. I researched what I needed to for the book because it was my intention to make it historically accurate- a personal goal. There were no technicalities to rid my mind of when I sat down to write, no questions like: What is it that I want to do with this particular book? Who is it that I’m trying to appeal to? It was just me doing what I loved, and loving what I did.
Because of my experience with my first book, I am now familiar with the process, and therefore feel more comfortable with writing and working with my next projects. Sometimes, this makes the writing of these new projects easier. Many times, however, I find myself thinking about the technicalities, and dealing with bouts of “writer’s bloc” that arise from this. My new topics may be different, and they may not be so familiar as were those of the first book. What is more, I realize now that I have an identity- a voice- a responsibility. Sometimes, it’s more difficult to relieve myself of that identity, let my passion for writing override any fears that may exist, and focus on the goal at hand.
And yet with all of this said, I return to my original statement. Every book written is unique. There are some things that make the writing of my next works easier, and some things that make them harder than writing my first. Despite all of this, one fact still remains. If I have enough tools and research in front of me when inspiration hits, I am tossed back to that same creative space I was in when writing the first book, where ideas run freely, and the story flows through my fingers naturally. That space is remissive in that it rids my mind and creates an atmosphere with a level playing field because I’m doing what I love!
You seem to be well in touch with where your muses flow. Its good that no matter what the situation you will be able to reach that place of peace where your inner self can flow. Do you think that other topics other than the plight of African Americans in slavery will be able to conjure the same passion as you have for Good Fortune? And will you be able to put yourself in your next projects as intensively if the technical factors are involved?
Noni,
Yours is a smart perspective. Every project is indeed unique, as you say. Furthermore, my experience is that there are lessons one only learns by finishing. We can never know what those lessons are until its time to move on to the next thing. Sometimes the lesson provides insight into how to work more efficiently; other times it might reveal larger, problematic points of interest which demand a slower work process.
For now, I hope you’re feeling a boost from finishing such an amazing book and are telling yourself that wherever your interest takes you, your gifts and work ethic will come along for the ride.
I,d say that you are putting forth one of the many gifts God has blessed you with. Enjoy every aspect of the journey. My heart is joyously bursting for you.
Hello all!
I appreciate your comments :-)
I have no doubt I’ll be tackling other topics besides African Americans in slavery (although this will always be close to my heart!)
I feel as if I have a commitment “to self” to write about the things that interest and intrigue me the most, so no, I don’t think immersing myself deeply into story-lines/cultures/plots and the gathering of research will be any less intense- maybe different in many ways- but no less intense.
I am definitely feeling more and more of a boost as time ticks nearer to the publication of GOOD FORTUNE. I am enjoying this journey to the fullest.
Thanks to all!
Blessings
Noni, you stated in your blog that you began writing this book because you were very passionate about this important part of our history. Your initial quest to simply put your thoughts on paper, minus the technicalities and concerns of publishing a novel led to a very dynamic story which is very touching and truly heartfelt.
In regards to your many future works, how will you balance your inner aspirations to “put your natural thoughts on paper” with the many demands and technical concerns of publishing a novel?
Noni, your response is powerful and you are unique. Your talents are many, manage self and enjoy.
Noni, I am impressed by the maturityy you show in your responses. I am delighted to have been a part of your development. I congratulate you for having your first book published by a major publisher. Iyanla Vanzant was only able to get a major publisher after first self-publishing and selling her first work.
I anxiously await the arrival of my copy.
We will host you for a booksigning at Hillside International Truth Center as soon as we can work out the details.
Stay true to your principles. I love you, Ms JJ
Noni I encourage you to keep pursuing your goals and let let the sky be the limit to your success. I look foward to you signing my book and remember keep God first in your life, and he will sustain you in all your endeavors. I am truly proud of you.
Toni Mitchell