Monday 18 November 2019

Writers: Are You a Tortoise or a Hare…


We writers tend to fall into two categories. You’re either a tortoise or a hare. What do I mean by that? I guess what I’m trying to get across is that some writers write fast, and can crank out thousands of words in one sitting, while other writers are slower, and write at their own speed and pace to get their books done—even if it takes them years. I’m not talking about whether you’re a plotter or a pantser (writing by the seat of your pants), though you can find out more on that subject in this guest post HERE. I’m talking about whether a writer is prone to being a ‘hare’ (fast writer) or a ‘tortoise’ (slow writer). So, let’s get real, and be honest. Which one are you? A hare or a tortoise?

I must admit, I’m definitely a proud tortoise. Though I mentally (and emotionally) kick myself at times for being such a slow writer. A good day of writing (3-4 hours) consists of over five hundred words—a great day is over a thousand. I know a lot of my slow-downs happen when I need to do some research in the middle of a scene. It’s been suggested to me by the powers that be (my publisher) that I should just highlight the area where the research is needed, and continue on with my writing. Of course, boss-woman is correct, and what she advises makes a heck of a lot of sense. But…um, no. I want, correction need to KNOW what happens in that scene, and if I’m using the proper terms and things found in the time period I’m writing in to move the story forward. For me, finding the historically correct information is vital to finishing the scene. Sigh. I must be built that way.

At times I envy all you, hares out there, with your nimble fingers flying across the keyboard, and your devil-may-care attitudes. You’re the writers who get more than one book written in a year. I truly applaud you for that accomplishment. You’re also the writers who probably have a messy, mucky first draft, and need to go through many drafts to get your final story. Me? I usually have a clean first draft that’s closer to publication than the hare’s speedy attempt at a novel. My mantra in this crazy writing gig is, ‘Slow and steady progress assures success’. So I plod along like the tortoise, much like the one in Aesop’s fable, who ends up crossing the finish line to win the race against the confident, cocky hare. Perseverance, after all, will keep us writers going and going—like that pink Energizer Bunny. Or is it really a hare? Wink.

Confession time! Are you a tortoise or a hare? How has being either one effected the way you approach writing a novel? Do you love the process? Does writing energize you? Would love to read your input and comments. Thank you for spending time with me by reading my blog! Cheers, and have a great week!

For your reading pleasure, may I suggest a visit to Fairy Falls, or if you’re feeling really adventurous, a trip back in time with The Last Timekeepers? Just remember to pack lightly.

18 comments:

  1. I'm a tortoise with no plans to speed up.

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    1. Atta boy, Michael! Slow and steady process wins the race!

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    2. Oh, and thanks so much for your input, Michael! Cheers!

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    1. You go, Helen...at your own speed. Cheers and thanks for stopping by!

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    1. We're kindred spirits, Andrew! Cheers for commenting and stopping by!

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  4. I'm a hare, but we knew that already! For me, success in writing is all about keeping up my momentum and staying motivated on a project.

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    1. Yes we did, Justine! Whatever works for writers is the best way to go. Cheers and thanks for stopping by to comment!

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  5. I'm a tortoise. My first drafts are pretty close to "go." I have learned to highlight in red those passages that need work or research, though. It helps to keep me motivated to get the foundation of the story down.

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    1. My first drafts are pretty 'clean' too, Linda. Sometimes it's worth taking the time to enjoy writing stories, and not worry about the competition. Cheers and thanks for commenting and stopping by!

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    1. By the looks of it, we tortoises are winning big time, Carol! Hugs for stopping by to comment!

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  7. I must admit I'm a tortoise as well. Even when writing short stories or travel articles. I just can't write fast!

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    1. I feel I'm in good company, Darlene. Wink. Cheers for stopping by to comment, and go Team Tortoise!

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    1. I would have never pegged you for a tortoise, Lisa. LOL! Cheers and thanks for stopping by to comment!

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