Notes from My Writing Journal

January 2012

I have about two months left to finish LOVE ANTHONY. Two months of writing, and then I need to edit, edit, edit, make sure the story WORKS, make sure I've told the truth. Please, God, let the story work. Please, when it's done, let the story leave the reader with resonance, thinking, stunned, wowed.

But I have A LOT left to write before it's done, and I'm scared. How do I get there from here? Lisa, you know the answer to this--word by word. See what's in front of you and keep going. Today you are writing about Anthony's rocks, and THAT IS ALL. Don't get ahead of yourself. Yes, the end is near, but you can't see it yet. You can't skip over this part and be done. You have to write every word before you get to write THE END.

How great is that going to feel? I remember exactly how I felt when I declared the first drafts of STILL ALICE and LEFT NEGLECTED done. Euphoric. Like giving birth. Unburdened. Like I could finally exhale.

It's not long now. Two more months. You're almost there. Write about Anthony's rocks. His pebbles. His beach stones. That's all. Today is not THE END. So stop thinking about that and write.
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Published on May 10, 2012 16:15 Tags: lisa-genova, love-anthony
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message 1: by Linda (new)

Linda So this is how the creative process works for you. Thanks for sharing.

Linda


message 2: by Pam (new)

Pam I am waiting anxiously for your next book, "Love Anthony". I loved both your first and second books.


message 3: by Kayla (new)

Kayla Can't wait to read Love Anthony. Absolutely loved Left Neglected - it is one of my all time favorite books!!! Also my local library has been in contact with your agent or publisher (not quite sure who, but know as my mom is the director there) in hopes that you might be able to visit it which I am keeping my fingers crossed will work out. Would love to see you in person.


message 4: by Pamela (new)

Pamela Detlor Continue to enjoy the entire process! I'll wait, patiently, over here, for Anthony to arrive in my local book store.


message 5: by Donna (new)

Donna Cannot wait! I "love Anthony" already!!


message 6: by Brenda (new)

Brenda It will be a great book, just like the previous two Lisa:)


message 7: by Trish (new)

Trish I eagerly await your new book. I loved the first two and you provide honest insight into medical conditions. As a nurse, I have been able to make valuable use of this in my work. Trish


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