Into the Fire

I can’t tell you how to write your novel. I can’t tell you why you need to use the rules of writing. I can’t tell you to outline your story or to just write and let it pour onto the page. I can’t tell you one way is better than the other for you.

I can’t tell you it will be next to impossible for you to get published, and I can’t tell you it will be a sure thing if you just “write a great story, polish it to perfection” and submit it.

I can’t tell you going to a writer’s conference will lead you to the agent of your choice or directly to a contract with a publisher because of the pitch you make to an editor.

I can’t tell you that if you study the craft and buy all the best writing manuals written by Anne LaMott or Stephen King or Donald Maass or whomever, and take their instructions to heart, that your resulting work will net you a multi-book contract.

I can’t tell you if you do your homework as to what agents/editors/publishers prefer your genre(s) and seek them out with your near perfect manuscript that you’ll get published.

I can’t tell you your platform is exceptional enough or notable enough or too insignificant for publication.

But many people will tell you these kinds of things and more. Some who tell you these things are professionals in the publishing industry. They’re either giving you the pat formulas or the sincere instructions which work for the few who make it into publication.

So. Here’s what I can tell you. Writing can be fun, exhilarating, exhaustive, meaningful, necessary and compelling, and/or drudgery. You will know if and when you simply must write novels. You will learn just how dedicated you are to your work. You will learn just how disciplined you can be or not. You will have those moments or months of struggle. You will have those moments or months of extreme fulfillment.

I can tell you finishing that first novel is a unique experience, extremely satisfying. But it won’t be enough to prove yourself. And if you can write one, then you can certainly write two. Don’t take too long to bask in your own glory because it’s fleeting—as it should be.

I can tell you that if you remind yourself it’s not all about you, you’ll be better off. If you remind yourself that your inspiration comes from the Lord, and any and all praise for your work goes right through the ionosphere to Him, you’ll fare better emotionally and spiritually.

And for all of these things, I thank you, God. You are the source. You are the reality. Thank you in the Name of Jesus, Amen.