13 Comments
Oct 22, 2023Liked by Jami Attenberg

Thank you yet again. For not writing when emotionally drained, for finding things you’d like to change in a late copy of a book, for the courage to try something new, for being giddy about the experience of recording your voice speaking your words.

My debut novel launched last Sunday and I thoroughly enjoyed the experience--even in the midst of everything going on, even though my network of writer buddies has shifted dramatically in the past four months, even though a host of Life Things. My own giddiness from Sunday has relaxed slightly into gratitude, which shows no signs of abating. That I get to write at all, that I share this story now. All of it. And Craft Talk and #1000WordsofSummer have kept me going.

Expand full comment

Hi Jami - It was great to read about how your writing voice has changed. I’m struggling with that now. I started my novel when my kids were toddlers. I finished it this year but my kids are now in middle school and I’ve had to deal with breast cancer. My voice has definitely changed. Editing is a struggle or maybe I’m throwing obstacles in my way but my phrasing and my focus at times is all wrong. Regardless, it was freeing to hear you have similar writing issues and are able to let it go.

Thanks!

Expand full comment
author

Sending you the best vibes Lauren as you work through finding your voice! It's a major accomplishment to finish a novel, so don't forget to be proud of yourself for that.

Expand full comment

I had the exact same experience of finding errors while recording my audio book, even after reading it aloud twice. Keep reading it! I loved 1000 Words. Review on my Substack.

Expand full comment

I can relate. I keep on missing all the tiny and obvious mistakes.

Expand full comment

I’ve already fucked up a little bit this week. ✅ Feeling ahead of the game, for once!

Expand full comment
author

Ha!

Expand full comment
Oct 22, 2023Liked by Jami Attenberg

Thanks, Jami. It’s a relief to read permission for not writing during stressful periods. I’ve come off a combination of stresses and I haven’t be able to write my novel in progress. I felt like touching it by doing some research night before last. Baby steps to the bus!

Expand full comment
Oct 22, 2023Liked by Jami Attenberg

One of the most important lessons I’ve learned from you so far is the value of writing when not writing. Getting away from the page and listening to find the essence of what I’m really writing about. I did a lesson last week on reduction. Thank you Jami!

Expand full comment
founding

Maybe I WILL NEVER TELL YOU is your next book! ;-)

Expand full comment
author

lol

Expand full comment

But it is lovely to make corrections when the book is reprinted!! So I do keep a little running list...

Expand full comment
author

Yeah we'll see if I do! My editor offered it and then I thought maybe I like them there anyway.

Expand full comment