april 2015: writing, revision, and inspiration

Monthly archives: april 2015

This collection highlights posts from April 2015, centered around the writing process and literary themes. The month's reflections touch upon the anxieties of finishing a book, the crucial stage of revision, and finding inspiration through poetry. A key theme is the ongoing nature of writing – a book is never truly 'finished' until it's published. The posts also feature participation in the April A to Z challenge and showcase various literary resources and blogs.

Hope is the thing with feathers

Inspired by an Emily Dickinson poem, this post discusses the emotions accompanying the completion of a writing project. It acknowledges the inevitable apprehension that arises, particularly the worry that the work won't resonate. Emily Dickinson’s poem serves as a reminder of the enduring power of hope and perseverance in the face of such challenges. The post invites reflection on the author's journey and the anticipation of sharing the finished work with the world.

The pain and perils of revision

Having recently 'finished' a book after nearly a year of work, the author explores the iterative process of revision. It’s a common experience for writers: the understanding that a manuscript is never truly complete until publication. This post delves into the nuances of this stage, highlighting the critical importance of revisiting and refining the work to ensure its best possible form. Revision is presented as an essential, albeit often challenging, step.

April a to z challenge: letter g

Participating in the April A to Z challenge, this post focuses on the letter 'G.' Originally posted on Rosie Amber, it introduces a book character, Garnet Sullivan, from the novel The Devil, The Diva and the Deep Blue Sea. The post encourages audience participation and offers a glimpse into the character's world, showcasing a blend of creativity and interactive engagement within the challenge framework.

Beyond the author's own reflections, this section highlights several external resources. These include A.C. Stark’s insightful writing on politics, history, and culture, the Comedy Film and Writing Festival, the Stub Collection book review aggregator, and blogs like medicine for all, glutlust, and Commonplace Book Blog. The diverse selection offers a range of perspectives on literature, writing, and related topics, enriching the overall literary landscape.

Inspiration & encouragement

Concluding the collection are inspirational quotes and reflections on personal growth. A quote from Virginia Woolf emphasizes the importance of intellectual freedom. The message encourages pursuing dreams passionately, maintaining a positive outlook, and serving as a source of inspiration for others. This section underscores the value of embracing life experiences, learning from challenges, and striving for a fulfilling and meaningful existence, promoting a mindset of positivity and personal development.