Darren B

Hi
I'm pretty new here. I just have a few questions for anybody out there who may have already written a novel.

1. When you started to write it, did you do it with the intention of taking it to publishers or did you just write it to prove to yourself that you could do it?

2. How many words did you write in the average week and how long over-all did it take you?

3. Did you do it while working full-time?

4. Do you have kids and a spouse and did they get in your way? Were they understanding?

Thanks. I basically just need some words of encouragement to get my ass in gear. You can message me or write a response here.

AdamR

Hello,

I am new to writing, so my advise is limited. I have never fully completed a novel although I'm working on one right now.

1) I'd have to say a little of both. More proving it to myself over publishing. If it had a good turn out and I gave it my best, heck, I might as well go to the publisher. If not, I've expanded my ability and can go at it again.

2) I really don't keep track as I am totally on my own schedule. I write when I 'feel' like it. Many times I've just been in the mood and written for 6 hours straight, 3 days straight. Writing is an art that flows from the imagination, and the mood needs to be right. Unless you have a scheduled date from a publisher, you should generaly write on your OWN schedule, forcing yourself, but not to the extreme. By forcing youself too far, you end up burned out, in a state of writer's block, and you won't want to write again for awhile.

3) As I stated above, writing is something that should be on your own time, and how your schedule permits. If you have a schedule date from a publisher, then you are probably a writer professionaly, and don't have a full time job other than writing. Working full time apart from writing will slow it down, there's no doubt there. Many people find it a comfort (I know I do) to sit down and write for awhile after working long and hard.

4) I don't have kids or a spouse...yet. Again, this will take time away from writing as there are so many other more important responsibilities than writing when you have a family. They should be uderstanding and supportful to you, but make sure you spend much time with them as this is extremely important. Having a family would probably help your writing ability...