“Therein lies the rub.” I can’t remember the movie I heard that from—maybe the Untouchables with Kevin Cosner—maybe not. Anyway, I’m going somewhere with this, I promise. You see, after five years of writing, rewriting, and agonizing over my manuscript, BLOOD BIAS is only weeks away from being available to the masses. Now don’t get me wrong, I fully understand that my obscurity as a writer may hinder a drove of wild, crazy groupie fans from beating down my door to get a copy, but the thing is, an actual stranger—someone I am not related to, who isn’t a friend, or an acquaintance I’ve met through casual conversation—may actual read my book. So therein lies the rub. In other words, on one hand I am happy to be finally seeing my book in print (digital and actual paper), on the other hand, I’m nervous about it. The truth is, I have to prepare myself for possible criticism. I think the correct word here is probable. It will come from someone.
Writers tend to be their own worst critics, but we also have to be our own biggest cheerleaders (It’s not a pretty sight to see me in a skirt and chest hugging sweater—trust me). If that image disturbed your appetite, I’m sorry. I’ll try not to do it again. Anyway, I’ve had to convince myself that I wrote a very good book—if I can’t do that, I’ll never succeed in this business. And so I am convinced, but what will others think. There’s an old saying—“Never trust what your mother says about your writing”. I don’t trust anyone I know to tell me the truth. Will anyone have the guts to tell me my book “Bites the Big One” other than a total stranger? But the truth is, that’s what I want. Whether family or friend, acquaintance or Maytag repairman, I want the truth. How will I become better without the truth? I’ve been shunned by so many agents and publishers that I can’t imagine it could be worse. So if I had one wish over the next several months, it would be for my readers to give it to me straight, no anesthetic, just straight up with a shot of bourbon on the side.
Will you have the guts? By the way, anyone know the movie my quote came from?
Anyone?
6 comments:
James, you should know by now that our family is not good at sugar coating things! Honesty is one of our finest qualities ha ha! We love you but will give it to you straight! Can't wait to read the book. Your sis.
James, you should've known Miss Smarty Pants would find out. I suspected but had to make sure, but the quote is from Hamlet: "To sleep--perchance to dream: ay, there's the rub..." Excited for you getting your book out! Good luck!
So excited for you, James. Once I read it, don't worry, I'll give it to you straight. However, I'm sure it's going to be good!
P.S. Great detective work, Jan!
Thanks for the comments.
My nephew actually gave me the Shakespeare info. He's quite the enthusiast. I would have never guessed. Thanks for the quote, Jan. Have also had several mention the movie--The Inside Man. I need to check it out. Thanks for visiting my Other Side.
Hi James
Can't wait to read the book. I think I've read part of it somewhere. Maybe the Houma anthology? Be sure and bring it to our meeting. Good luck.
Linda
James, you do NOT have to worry. Once those Amazon reviews hit, you'll feel the rub. :) Since I've only read the first few chapters, I have no idea how the middle holds up but I know you're a good writer because of the other things I've read of yours. Trust your gut, go with your instinct, trust your friends and family but do not, I repeat, do NOT put a lot of stock in any of those negative Amazon reviews that try to hurt and destroy. There are some cruel people out there. Can't wait to get my hands on your book! Now go write the next one.
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