Sunday, February 22, 2009

Having the time to write

When I was in college, I would spend a lot of time analyzing and editing my term papers. To be honest, I probably was more meticulous about my papers in junior and senior year. During that time, I enjoyed thinking of myself as a "serious" Literature major. I would spend hours in the library researching a particular author or work and compiling tons of citations. A bunch of drafts could usually be found stuffed in my backpack. I liked the whole idea of working out a paper over time. When it was finally submitted to the professor, I usually felt confident that I handed in a worthy paper for consideration.

I notice that my writing habits have changed significantly now that I'm a wife and mother. Now my poems are written in a period of 15 minutes. Gratefully, the images and phrasing seem to come to me quickly once I get "inspired" to jot a poem down. Since I'm so busy with the kids and the house, I guess I have to be content with these quickie moments of creativity. Overall, I'm happy with the poems and maybe it's better that I don't overwork them. When it comes to novel writing, I know that it will be necessary to edit and revise. If my goal is to complete a novel in the next year, I think I'll have to chain myself to my laptop in the late evening hours. Hopefully, my creative side will be awake enough to put in the necessary work.

3 comments:

Gerri said...

Yes, finding the time is tricky. But, it is the effort that counts and all the things we do as a Mom and Wife as well.:)

Michelle said...

Oh I'm with you. I'm thinking right now that I have about ten minutes to create a post for tomorrow or there won't be one at all. But I'm kind of ok with that because I have so many other things keeping me occupied and happy. But then again "real" writing isn't my goal, so I'd probably feel a little different if it were. Good luck with your novel. That's quite a goal!

CDB said...

I feel like you're writing about my life.. only I only have ONE (very busy, unruly) almost 2-yr old toddler. It is a challenge daily, but blogging has been a great catalyst. And great adult "conversation!"