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Today was the day from hell as far as writing goes. Had an argument with my spouse this morning, which left me walking the dog after making my own breakfast. Then, as I was getting into planning the day’s work and pulling myself into that creative space, two friends unexpectedly showed up at my door to play tennis. I say unexpectedly because I had forgotten we had scheduled today for a tennis day and social lunch. My bad. The short story is, my work plans were blown to bits, which brings me to today’s topic of why I love writing – freedom to work at my own pace.
There are two great aspects to this freedom I speak of. The first is to schedule my own time based on motivation and time available. After twenty years of working in a office and doing the daily grind in order to meet project deadlines, I love being able to say “I don’t have time for work today” or “I’ll push that off until tomorrow because I’m simply not in the mood.” I work for myself, so if I want to take a day or even a week off there is nobody to flog me but myself. That said, I can honestly say that I now work harder than I ever have in my life. I’ve migrated into a funny situation where the work drives me rather than the other way around. Still, when things come up, I can push the work aside and deal with life.
The second aspect of freedom I’d like to mention is the freedom of location. With my writing, I’m not bound to an office. I can work anywhere I can plug in my laptop, and I can market my books anywhere I can gain access to the internet. That is a tremendous freedom. I love to travel, and I spend four to six months of the year trekking the world. I’ve just returned from a five month trip through Southeast Asia, where I worked nearly every day. Although I’m not nearly as productive when I’m on the road, I do have a daily routine where I writer at least two hours each day.
Working for myself allows me the freedom to work as I choose, and also deal with all the other wonderful things in life as they come up.
Thursday, May 7, 2009
Wednesday, May 6, 2009
Why I Love Writing - Part II
I would first like to thank the people who left thoughtful and supportive comments on yesterday’s article about what I love about writing. Many of you writers shared similar feelings, which brings me to today’s topic of why I love writing:
For the last year I have been networking with dozens of writers in an effort to promote my gay-romance novel, Island Song. And in doing so, I’ve learned much about writing and publishing, but more importantly, I’ve learned that we all share many common experiences. I’m not simply talking about that wonderful dance we do with our imaginations when we touch Creativity. I’m also thinking of the insecurity of selling ourselves to total strangers, about the bruised egos after receiving a less that stunning review or the joy of a great review, about realizing that many close friends and family couldn’t be bothered with reading your work, about the frustration of throwing open the internet window and shouting that you’ve produced a magnificent book – and nobody listens. I could go on and on. But what this common-experience realization has done for me is to create a bond with these other writers.
I have grown to love this bond with other highly-creative people. It’s an interesting bond, like strangers suddenly finding themselves in a life raft on the high seas with no land in sight. We pull together, support each other. There are no feelings of competitiveness. One writer’s success means we all succeed, it’s a celebration for each of us.
Writers, I’ve found, have fragile souls. We reach deep inside and pour ourselves on the page like no other art form does. And I think it takes another writer to understand that frailty, and to support it. It’s become a huge comfort that I’m hooked up with colleagues who understand my fragility.
I also find that these marvelously supportive people make me stretch to become a better writer, to improve my craft. Not that I feel the need to impress them. It’s more a feeling that I don’t want to let them down by publishing something substandard. They make me stretch, they help me grow as a writer and a person. And in a strange kind of way, I’ve come to love them for their understanding and support, and for the bond we have sculpted together.
For the last year I have been networking with dozens of writers in an effort to promote my gay-romance novel, Island Song. And in doing so, I’ve learned much about writing and publishing, but more importantly, I’ve learned that we all share many common experiences. I’m not simply talking about that wonderful dance we do with our imaginations when we touch Creativity. I’m also thinking of the insecurity of selling ourselves to total strangers, about the bruised egos after receiving a less that stunning review or the joy of a great review, about realizing that many close friends and family couldn’t be bothered with reading your work, about the frustration of throwing open the internet window and shouting that you’ve produced a magnificent book – and nobody listens. I could go on and on. But what this common-experience realization has done for me is to create a bond with these other writers.
I have grown to love this bond with other highly-creative people. It’s an interesting bond, like strangers suddenly finding themselves in a life raft on the high seas with no land in sight. We pull together, support each other. There are no feelings of competitiveness. One writer’s success means we all succeed, it’s a celebration for each of us.
Writers, I’ve found, have fragile souls. We reach deep inside and pour ourselves on the page like no other art form does. And I think it takes another writer to understand that frailty, and to support it. It’s become a huge comfort that I’m hooked up with colleagues who understand my fragility.
I also find that these marvelously supportive people make me stretch to become a better writer, to improve my craft. Not that I feel the need to impress them. It’s more a feeling that I don’t want to let them down by publishing something substandard. They make me stretch, they help me grow as a writer and a person. And in a strange kind of way, I’ve come to love them for their understanding and support, and for the bond we have sculpted together.
Tuesday, May 5, 2009
Why I Love Writing - Part I
For the next few days, perhaps even several, I will be writing a series of posts exploring why I love writing. I say exploring because I don’t currently know the reasons, but I will attempt to investigate the part of me that finds joy through the process I call creativity. This will be a journey of discovery for me as well as for readers out there.
I would first like to touch on a phenomenon I have experienced many times, and I am always awed and very grateful when it occurs. I call it, touching Creativity.
I look at creativity as something much larger than what goes on in my head when I write. I see it as weaving through this wondrous universe, something that infiltrates all life and binds us life forms together. Some people call it God, others call it Life. I call it Creativity. When I write I feel myself open up to this force. I sometimes feel it in the room with me as I struggle over some bit of prose, as if it were something substantial hovering above me, like a muse.
When I let go of my own ego-driven thoughts and just let the words flow, this force seems to take over, to replace me and spill onto the page. At other time, it seems to draw what I need to me.
For example, last week I found that a line from a Yeat’s poem I had used in my upcoming release of Changi, I had also used the same line in my first published novel, Island Song. So, red faced, I pulled out my volume of Yeat’s works to search for different poem. Before even scanning the table of contents, I randomly opened the volume to a middle page and read the first poem – it was perfect, exactly what I was hoping for. I flipped to a different page and read another poem only to find that it was perfect as well. Coincidence? I don’t believe in chance. I believe that Creativity guided me, and the reason I have come to believe this is because it has not happened in only a few isolated circumstances. It happens often.
When it does happen, when I feel something larger than myself take over, guiding my thoughts, my fingers, a joy washes though me. I am not a religious person, don’t believe in a God, but I must say that at times these feelings seem spiritual.
There is something out there binding life together, and tapping into that force never fails to amaze and delight me. It is probably my most passionate motivation for writing.
I would first like to touch on a phenomenon I have experienced many times, and I am always awed and very grateful when it occurs. I call it, touching Creativity.
I look at creativity as something much larger than what goes on in my head when I write. I see it as weaving through this wondrous universe, something that infiltrates all life and binds us life forms together. Some people call it God, others call it Life. I call it Creativity. When I write I feel myself open up to this force. I sometimes feel it in the room with me as I struggle over some bit of prose, as if it were something substantial hovering above me, like a muse.
When I let go of my own ego-driven thoughts and just let the words flow, this force seems to take over, to replace me and spill onto the page. At other time, it seems to draw what I need to me.
For example, last week I found that a line from a Yeat’s poem I had used in my upcoming release of Changi, I had also used the same line in my first published novel, Island Song. So, red faced, I pulled out my volume of Yeat’s works to search for different poem. Before even scanning the table of contents, I randomly opened the volume to a middle page and read the first poem – it was perfect, exactly what I was hoping for. I flipped to a different page and read another poem only to find that it was perfect as well. Coincidence? I don’t believe in chance. I believe that Creativity guided me, and the reason I have come to believe this is because it has not happened in only a few isolated circumstances. It happens often.
When it does happen, when I feel something larger than myself take over, guiding my thoughts, my fingers, a joy washes though me. I am not a religious person, don’t believe in a God, but I must say that at times these feelings seem spiritual.
There is something out there binding life together, and tapping into that force never fails to amaze and delight me. It is probably my most passionate motivation for writing.
Monday, May 4, 2009
Book Review of The Academician – Southern Swallow – Book I
The Academician – Southern Swallow – Book I
By Edward C. Patterson
(PUBLISHER: CreateSpace, March 4, 2009, $11.99)
Reviewed by Alan ChinEdward Patterson takes the reader deep into ancient China, during the Sung dynasty, when the Emperor was considered the “Son of Heaven” and vast armies trembled at his every whim. Out of this rich history comes the riveting journey of one man, Li K’ai-men, that begins at his graduation from an academy where he studied under a venerable master, to his rein over a province ruined by the previous corrupt administrators, to his appointment as Grand Tutor to the ninth son of the Emperor in the capital city of K’ai-feng. When warring hoards from the north threaten the safety of the realm, Li K’ai-men must use his sharp intelligence and a bit of magic to take extraordinary measures to save his life, his family, and liege lord. Li K’ai-men’s journey, which includes a rather touching relationship with his male lover, Fu Lin-t’o, is told through the eyes of K’u Ko-ling, Li K’ai-men’s rather clownish manservant who was the son of a cowcumber farmer.
Edward Patterson stretches his considerable talents in this daring novel that mixes history with fantasy. This story is a vivid, imaginative, and often humorous romp through a pivotal point in Chinese history. It has surprising power, with images that grab hold of you and don’t let go. In the midst of this fanciful tale, Patterson creates a heartwarming gay love story. The love interest is not the main plot, however, but rather a tantalizing spice spread over the plot.
The author uses a technique that I have seen only once before. The narrator starts and finishes each chapter with his 1st person point of view, but the bulk of the story is told in 3rd person. I found these POV switches to be seamless, and greatly added to developing the depths of the main characters. This is a character driven story, and Patterson skillfully allows us see these characters to their core.
I had only two problems with this story. The first problem was that because there were a host of minor characters, and the Chinese names were somewhat confusing, I had some trouble telling them apart. The second issue was that this is the first novel in a series, which means that it sets the stage for much more story to come. I was left with a feeling of incompleteness, and somewhat miffed that I must wait for another installment or two to finish the story. The plot is complex, which combines with his consummate skill at crafting prose and his well-researched details to keep the reader fully engaged until the last page. I would recommend this read to anyone who enjoys multifaceted characters, humor, and a well-crafted story.
Sunday, May 3, 2009
Early Mother's Day
Because of chaotic family commitments over the next few weeks, my family is gathering today for an early Mother's Day celebration -- a quiet dinner at my sister's house. So to help get me in the party mood, I'd like to share a few thoughts on Mama and her day, which, by the way, should come around more than once per year, don't you think? Perhaps once per month should be adopted.
I came across the following quote this morning, and it made me think of my mother:
I will make love my greatest weapon and none on who I call can defend against its force....My love will melt all hearts liken to the sun whose rays soften the coldest day.- Og Mandino
My mother is a tough woman who lived through harsh times. Although she doesn’t admit it, life dealt her meager hand -- deaf, little education, married to an alcoholic -- she raised four kids by the force of her love. Yes, she is tough.
In my more than half century of living I have never once questioned her love and steadfast commitment to making me a better person by the shear force of her love. That mother/child bond is such a powerful force that sweeps so deeply that my eyes are tearing as I type.
Yet, I must admit that I’d forgotten the family plans today. I had a full day of work planned, and when my husband came into my office to remind me we were leaving at noon, I momentarily became miffed that family commitments were once again interrupting my writing schedule. It is times like this when I realize that I've become a workaholic and should seek help... Left brain asks: Is it really a bad thing to indulge in what you love doing, as long as it's not destructive? Right brain responds: Yes, when others are hurt from your neglect.
The angry feelings only lasted a minute and now I'm looking forward to a long drive and yummy dinner with the family, many of whom I haven't seen in several months. The writing will easily wait another day.
Happy Mother’s Day, Mama.
I came across the following quote this morning, and it made me think of my mother:
I will make love my greatest weapon and none on who I call can defend against its force....My love will melt all hearts liken to the sun whose rays soften the coldest day.- Og Mandino
My mother is a tough woman who lived through harsh times. Although she doesn’t admit it, life dealt her meager hand -- deaf, little education, married to an alcoholic -- she raised four kids by the force of her love. Yes, she is tough.
In my more than half century of living I have never once questioned her love and steadfast commitment to making me a better person by the shear force of her love. That mother/child bond is such a powerful force that sweeps so deeply that my eyes are tearing as I type.
Yet, I must admit that I’d forgotten the family plans today. I had a full day of work planned, and when my husband came into my office to remind me we were leaving at noon, I momentarily became miffed that family commitments were once again interrupting my writing schedule. It is times like this when I realize that I've become a workaholic and should seek help... Left brain asks: Is it really a bad thing to indulge in what you love doing, as long as it's not destructive? Right brain responds: Yes, when others are hurt from your neglect.
The angry feelings only lasted a minute and now I'm looking forward to a long drive and yummy dinner with the family, many of whom I haven't seen in several months. The writing will easily wait another day.
Happy Mother’s Day, Mama.
Saturday, May 2, 2009
Going back to school, Blogging School
In these days of internet access which reaches a global audience, the days of authors traveling from city to city and bookstore to bookstore to promote their work before a captive audience is going the way of the dinosaurs, horse-drawn buggies and Hula Hoops.
Today authors who wish to promote their books do so from the comfort of their own office. And instead of visiting different cities, they spend a great deal of time visiting blogs and social networking sites.
With the goal of improving my book promotion skills, I’ve signed up to participate in a class that teaches newbie authors (like me) how get the most visibility from their own blogs, and also to organize a whirlwind book tour, which these days means a blog tour.
The classes are all online, there are dozens of other students who offer support and encouragement, and best of all, it’s FREE!!
Well, actually it’s not free; it just doesn’t cost money. The price for admission is a willingness to show up every day, pay attention, support other students, and write a blog entry EVERY DAY. So there is actually quite a bit of work involved.
The new three-month session started May 1 with an agenda that follows this format:
Month 1 - improving your blogs
Month 2 - social networking and marketing
Month 3 - finding hosts and planning your tour stops
Month 4 - supporting each other's blog book tours
They offer a guide to get everyone started at: http://quickest.blogbooktourguide.ever.com/
For anyone interested in joining the Fall classes, all the info you need is at: http://blogbooktours.blogspot.com/
Happy Blogging.
Today authors who wish to promote their books do so from the comfort of their own office. And instead of visiting different cities, they spend a great deal of time visiting blogs and social networking sites.
With the goal of improving my book promotion skills, I’ve signed up to participate in a class that teaches newbie authors (like me) how get the most visibility from their own blogs, and also to organize a whirlwind book tour, which these days means a blog tour.
The classes are all online, there are dozens of other students who offer support and encouragement, and best of all, it’s FREE!!
Well, actually it’s not free; it just doesn’t cost money. The price for admission is a willingness to show up every day, pay attention, support other students, and write a blog entry EVERY DAY. So there is actually quite a bit of work involved.
The new three-month session started May 1 with an agenda that follows this format:
Month 1 - improving your blogs
Month 2 - social networking and marketing
Month 3 - finding hosts and planning your tour stops
Month 4 - supporting each other's blog book tours
They offer a guide to get everyone started at: http://quickest.blogbooktourguide.ever.com/
For anyone interested in joining the Fall classes, all the info you need is at: http://blogbooktours.blogspot.com/
Happy Blogging.
Wednesday, April 29, 2009
GLBT literature examiner for Examiner.com
Hi Readers and Writers,
Last week Christopher Soden sent me a message indicating that he was starting a series of articles at Examiner.com on queer culture to profile GLBT heroes. I checked it out (nice article on Francis Bacon), and then I checked out Examiner.com and found that they have nobody covering the colorful world of GLBT literature. Well they do now.
I'm beginning an ongoing column at Examiner.com on queer literature, both locally (San Francisco Bay Area) and globally, to profile GLBT books and the people who write, publish, and sell them. So I plan to write book reviews, post interviews with writers and publishers and book sellers, announce author events, cover conventions, and even showcase blogs.
So if you're a gay or lesbian writer looking for another outlet to promo yourself and your work, please contact me. And for readers who want a place to check out what's going on in the world of GLBT Literature, swing by often and see what's new. The link is:
http://www.tinyurl.com/d54rtd
So far I have only posted one article, about the grassroots author response to the Amazon.com "technical glitch" fiasco of a few weeks ago. Later this week I'll be posting a book review of Ed Patterson's wonderful novel, The Academician, and there will be more, much more.
Thanks, Alan Chin
Last week Christopher Soden sent me a message indicating that he was starting a series of articles at Examiner.com on queer culture to profile GLBT heroes. I checked it out (nice article on Francis Bacon), and then I checked out Examiner.com and found that they have nobody covering the colorful world of GLBT literature. Well they do now.
I'm beginning an ongoing column at Examiner.com on queer literature, both locally (San Francisco Bay Area) and globally, to profile GLBT books and the people who write, publish, and sell them. So I plan to write book reviews, post interviews with writers and publishers and book sellers, announce author events, cover conventions, and even showcase blogs.
So if you're a gay or lesbian writer looking for another outlet to promo yourself and your work, please contact me. And for readers who want a place to check out what's going on in the world of GLBT Literature, swing by often and see what's new. The link is:
http://www.tinyurl.com/d54rtd
So far I have only posted one article, about the grassroots author response to the Amazon.com "technical glitch" fiasco of a few weeks ago. Later this week I'll be posting a book review of Ed Patterson's wonderful novel, The Academician, and there will be more, much more.
Thanks, Alan Chin
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