I visited the library yesterday, which is one of my favorite things to do! So many books just waiting to be read, I feel like a kid in a candy store! This time I went for something more specific than my usual general fiction, I went to find books about writing. Now for a little background on me, I haven't gone to school for writing, I do want to take some creative writing courses, english and such, I just haven't had the time to fit it in, but my goal this year is to start getting serious, researching through books and classes to find where I need to be.
So I borrowed several books from the library and the one I've started on is A Natural History of the Romance Novel by Pamela Regis, now I don't know if reading this book is a good idea or a bad idea, but I have always been told to go with your gut. So I've chosen to read this book, broaden my horizon, learn something I might not learn on my own. At this point I am like a sponge, just waiting to soak up as much information as I can get my hands on!
All of my fellow bloggers have been amazing in sharing their knowledge of writing, tips on spelling and several other errors or worries that writers come across, it has been amazing and I feel like I have a whole new family to lean on for support.
Through this process I am finding that I am not only learning about myself as an author/writer, but also has a person. I am learning that challenges are something that I look forward to when writing, editing a piece or completely starting over doesn't defeat me, but only makes me that much more intrigued on the ending. So for now I am going to continue reading the informational books, and if I learn one thing then it was worth it!
22 comments:
I love going to the bookstore. Just walking through the door puts a smile on my face. I also love reading informational books, and I always throught that just made me a dork, but I guess not. : )
Keep reading! Those books, along with blogs and internet articles have helped me a ton.
Happy Wednesday!
This blogging community is wonderful and helpful isn't it?
I am a sponge in reading...especially about something I don't know a thing about.
Have a great day!!!
Ohhh, I love this post. Because when we stop learning, we stop growing. Learning and gathering information is one of my steps on the staircase to being published. And you're right! If you learn ONE thing, then it is worth it all. :0)
I have discovered more knowledge and support and ideas from this blogging circle than I would ever have dreamed possible. More than that, I have made friendships that I can no longer imagine being without. We are all so lucky to have each other! :-)
The comments above all make a point that I too make I my blog post for today: The information from many of the blogs is excellent. I really enjoy the books about writing--I have many--- but I find the same information, often more concisely, in many of the blogs I read. It never hurts to review the same information, espcecially when you're as forgetful as I am.
Lee
I'd never taken a creative writing class either, but I feel like I've complete a master's program in the two years I've been a member of http.//www.writing.com. (It was named in Writer's Digest as one of the top four best websites for creative writers [October 2009 issue].) Basic membership is free, and you get your own writing portfolio. Post some of your work, and members will read, rate and review it. The feedback is (usually) honest, encouraging, and insightful. There are many, many contests you can participate in, groups to join if you're looking for other writers in your genre or style, and creative writing classes that cost pennies, even though their content rivals the most expensive online schools out there.
You should check it out -- you won't be disappointed! (Feel free to visit my portfolio, to get an idea what it's all about: http://www.writing.com/main/view_item/user_id/heftynicki )
There's nothing better than a trip to library. We went yesterday too, and I got two books I've been dying for!
Good luck with your craft. (Not that you need it. :))
I've never heard of that craft book, but sounds like a good one. :-) Good for you for always being up for learning!
Thanks for stopping by my blog!
Thanks for all the thoughts and support! This blogging world is truly amazing and I am glad I found it when I did...
I think knowledge is a fantastic thing... and reading is something I love! You guys are fantastic!
I'm coming over from Katie's- you have a nice place here!
Craft books are at the top of my priority list right now. Currently I'm devouring Donald Maas, Fire In Fiction. I feel the words sizzling!
Thanks for stopping by Tamika! I always love new blog buddies!
I'll have to check out Fire in Fiction! Sounds worth a look!
Sounds like you are ready and rearing to learn and grow! That's awesome, Jen! You've got a lovely blog. I love your background. :)
I love the library! I do prefer B&N, but library's are the next best place to just relax
Katie - I'm very much ready to learn! Very excited!
bclement412 - Well I am on a budget so the library is a place where I can read as many books as I can get my hands on, until I am able to purchase all the books I want!!!
Thanks for stopping by my blog. I love post! I am a huge fan of the library. It's where I get most of my audio books and new releases.
Hi Jen,
I love libraries and anything offering information too! Writing blogs have helped me immeasurably in the last 12 months and I am always amazed at the generosity of other writers who delight in sharing what they have already discovered.
Keep hunting - information gathering is the best fun, next to writing this is :)
I love the library and books about writing!! The two combined. I'm not sure what could be more perfect. Oh, I guess, time to read said writing book. Let us know what you get out of it!
The challenging but also very cool part about writing is that there's always something new to learn. Craft books are a great way to absorb new ideas and stretch yourself. It's definitely one of my goals this year as well, to stretch myself as a writer and broaden my horizons.
You guys are fantastic! Thanks for the support... I can't wait to learn more and let you know what I find out!!!
I am inbetween two books and loving it! Tons of information I just want to soak it all in!!
Hi Jen,
Thanks for visiting me at WhenIwasYourAge. I'm new at writing too, struggling with similar issues.
Great post, Jen! I think learning more about ourselves as writers and our strengths is a wonderful part of the journey.
Hi Jen,
Thanks again for visiting my haunted house and leaving such a kind and fabulous comment. I can tell I'm going to enjoy hearing about your discoveries on the path to becoming a writer.
One thing I would like to say is that, yes, rules and techniques are good, and it's good to learn them, but it's often how you bend those rules that will make you an individual voice. Yes, learn about the straight lines of fiction writing, but allow for some curves along the way. The curves are who you are!
Steph Fey x
Post a Comment