On the challenges of writing fiction, part 2

I see these memes going around: “At age 30, JK Rowling was depressed and wanted to give up, but she didn’t and now she’s worth 15 kajillion dollars, so you shouldn’t give up either!” And I just . . . think that’s bullshit. It’s not helpful. In fact, I think it’s discouraging. You’re more likely…

There was a time when all the editors I worked with knew I was a black belt in Tae Kwon Do, and so they were all slightly afraid of me. I miss those days. ### My collection of travel stories, Travels with Jessica, is now available! Kindle and paperback here; other ebook formats here. And…

So the other day I got an unexpected check in the mail, and I went out and squandered it on a food processor and a Dustbuster. The nineteen-year-old who still lives in my brain was appalled that this is what I would do with a hundred bucks because she would have bought some great shoes…

Me: “So there’s a guy with a baler on the shoulder of the road—” Big City Friend: “A what?” Me: “A baler, like a Haybuster. You know.” BCF: “A what?” Me: “A baler, a Haybuster baler!” BCF: “Are you even speaking English?” Me: “I’m describing a vehicle on the shoulder of a county road in…

Don’t get me wrong, I love my work. I just wish people didn’t need it on their timetable instead of mine, which would include a nice leisurely lunch and perhaps a little nap. ### Dojo Wisdom for Writers, second edition, now available on Amazon in print and ebook! (Nook and other ebook versions here) Catch…