An awful lot has transpired since my last post (a year ago–oops!). Rounds of self-edits. Beta-reader feedback. More edits. More edits. More (okay, you get the drift). Then, this winter, I sent my manuscript to a professional reader at my regional writer’s guild for more feedback. That was quite the eye opener. Then . . . hold your breath . . . more edits.
Speaking of holding one’s breath, I finally took the Big Dive two weeks ago and began submitting queries (and samples of my manuscript in some cases) to literary agents. Feeling really naked and exposed now, metaphorically, of course.
Imposter Syndrome
It’s well documented that many writers go through some degree of imposter syndrome. I’ve suffered from this since the beginning of my writing journey. But now, it has really taken root.
Since I’d spawned and nurtured my little gem of a story, I’ve had serious doubts–about the concept, my creative abilities, and my writing chops. Until recently, I’ve safeguarded my baby, confining it within its hardened shell, visible only to me and a few chosen sets of eyes; thus, exposing the story–and The Imposter–only marginally.
But now, it’s time for the shell to be pried open for the world to see, hopefully uncovering a pearl of a story inside (rather, than a common, slimy, bivalve mollusk).
what’s next?
I’m now studying, researching and contemplating my next full-time vocations, those being a self-publisher, promoter, and marketer of things written. Stay tuned.
Cheers, Santé, Budmo, Prost, ¡Salud!
author doug