Saturday, March 9, 2013

The Internal Debate

My ongoing internal debate about the merits of writing fiction goes something like this:

Me: "God. This is great! I love this creative writing life. I can make up whatever I want, and no one has much of a say so, and did I mention, this is great. Whoopie!"
Mt. Washington in Central OR

My conscience, (The Big C, henceforth): "Hey, you there. Are you kidding me? No f**king around here. Get on to something more productive. You're at the height of your income-earning years. There's no way you are going to make money writing crazy stories about things you make up. Get a life (translate: job), girlie."

Me: "But not everything can be boiled down to monetary gain. This writing thing, it's life generating. I think I'm on to something here."

The Big C: "You think you're the only dreamer? Ha! Just go trolling around Amazon and you'll see how many people are generating life! A whole pack of crazies. Put that pencil down and go make some money."

Me: "You're harsh. Are you sure you know the meaning of life?"

The Big C: "You like bread? You like butter? How about that house you live in? I saw you eating shrimp last night."

Me: "Here. (I show a paper to The Big C) Here's a story I can sell. It's about a gator-hunting bootmaker. Here's another. This guy writes cowboy poetry. You know, they all use their creativity for something greater than a roof over their heads -- they create to live. Now, leave me alone. I need to dream."

The Big C goes quiet. For a while. I feed it some more paid articles. She shakes her head.

12 comments:

  1. Nice blog....stopping by from the list on Saturday Snapshot.

    Elizabeth
    Silver's Reviews
    My Saturday Snapshot

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    1. Thanks for the comment. I will keep up with you as I get my book published! jf

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  2. Lovely picture, and I like the post that goes with it. My Snapshot is at http://goo.gl/9qx5t

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    1. Thanks for stopping by. I stumbled upon the Saturday Snapshot via Portland Bloggers. I'm fascinated how one little click sends me off on a new adventure and new connections.

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  3. The saying goes 'cleanliness in next to Godliness' but my reality says 'creativity is next to Godliness!!' You just can't go wrong following The Creator♥ My SS: http://lore-eleven.blogspot.com/2013/03/pipes.html

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    1. Would love to chat with you about your publishing process. Thanks so much for stopping by. I love new connections.

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  4. You have the bug, no question about that! In terms of financial success from writing, we know only one thing for sure: If you don't try it, you'll never know. Keep on keeping on. As long as the wolf isn't at the door, you have a chance. I like the style that has evolved or maybe I'm just seeing new things. What I see above is a graceful self-effacing view of self. You (ego) has dropped from sight. I like that. Your characters are taking over :-)

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    1. Oh, oh, oh, how I wish we could have coffee (or tea) on a regular basis. I keep trying this writing thing, and if there is one characteristic I'll need to make it in publishing, it is perseverance. Wouldn't mind hearing what's up with you (and snuggle-pup). My best, jf

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  5. Hi:

    Thanks for stopping by my Saturday Snapshot.

    Yes...my header was taken in Portree, Scotland. Adorable, but cold and rainy place. :)

    Elizabeth
    Silver's Reviews
    My Mailbox Monday

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    1. Scotland is beautiful. One of the few places in Europe I've seen. Appreciate your visit to my blog.

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  6. Yep, I've had that conversation with myself (except without the bit about the paid articles). :) Writing is more just a hobby and right now that's perfect for me.

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    1. I'd call writing an "obsessive" hobby for me. As I try to push to the next level, I'm gathering patience for the years it might take. Thanks for your visit. You follow A TON of book blogs. I need follow you!

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Brave soul to make a comment. Wink.