This one again |
Author: nic.h (---.prem.tmns.net.au)
Date: 01-11-02 16:44
I'm posting this again, but as a separate topic, because I think it was getting lost in the "to query, or not to query" debate. And I really want some help (thanks to the one person who did answer).
I have a manuscript for a novel (my first) that, conceptually, seems to be very marketable (lots of positive responses from queries over the years) but has never really (even in my mind) quite accomplished the standard I believe it/I should. In other words, I'm a much better writer now, but can't seem to bring the first novel up to that level, no matter what I do. It's definitely better than what it was the first time it was rejected, and has benefited from an editing scholarship I received at the bequest of the Australian Government, and initial queries since Christmas have already given me a four for four result for requests for the first three chapters, which I have duly submitted.
OK, so far so good. The problem is, I still don't think it's as good as it could be, but also know deep down somewhere scary, that I don't think I can fix it. Not yet, and probably not for a long time. Obviously if a publisher wants it, then I'm going to submit, but if I know all this, how hard should I push? It's taken five years, on and off, to get it to this (I think) publishable standard, so I'm reluctant to just give up and shove it into a drawer somewhere for a few years. On the other hand, if it does get published, after more hard work, time and money, I'm not all that sure it's something I'd be especially proud of (not for content reasons - purely from a writing craft persepective). But I'd be a published author, and it would be my first time.
The next part of the problem is that I'm 50,000 words into Number Two. And loving it. I've written this in around six months, and everyone who sees it (writer friends, as well as "normal" people) love it. They're all keen for Number One, but they all LOVE Number Two. Problem is it's very selective in it's audience. Probably exclusively Australian in tone and interest, and perhaps even a Young Adult work, although it wasn't my intention. That all means a much smaller market, i.e. fewer publishers, agents, and readers to choose from, and even then, for the same reasons, a long shot again.
So, Number One is publishable largely because its subject is so marketable but it's tone is not very *literary* (can't think of a better word), while Two is *literary* and fun, but not very publishable.
Should I go both guns? Submit one in front of the other - if so in which order? Aim at different markets/countries? Drop Number One (ouch)? The choices are endless. What do you think?
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Re: This one again |
Author: Nora Christie (---.proxy.aol.com)
Date: 01-11-02 18:03
Nic. H:
I think you shouldn't get your knickers in a twist, to borrow a phrase. You're overcerebrating over a situation that isn't all that bad. One finished novel, one far along. Keep sending out chapters on the first, don't worry about polishing it (now), give your attention to the second, more favored one (by you and your friends). The second book has momentum, don't lose that. Things could be worse!
Hopefully this may help,
Nora
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Re: This one again |
Author: Irene Rheinwald (---.ed.shawcable.net)
Date: 01-11-02 23:37
Nic, Nora's correct: you're trapped in that emotional/cerebral 'I can do better' vicious cycle which can devour your writerly brain - if out of control. Self doubt is a monster. I, too, doubt your first manuscript is as flawed as you suggest, judging from the positive responses you've received. As Nora said, keep sending it out; once an agent/publisher really takes note, you can discuss your concerns with an in house editor. He/she might offer a fresh perspective and opinions as to how you can improve perceived shortcomings. Who knows, maybe they'll say it's just fine. After five years, don't shove your work into a drawer to collect dust!
May I offer a compliment? I like your attitude. As long as doubt doesn't consume you to the point of immobility, this is the right mental and emotional track. You're clearly not resting on your laurel leaves - you're striving to better your skills, your critical eye (very apparent), and scope as a writer. In my opinion, take it or leave it, writing should be a continuous learning curve - for the rest of your life (may it be long and healthy). It's good to keep stretching your 'authorial' wings. Dedicated writers seek to better their latest effort, so take your discontent as a sign of committment.
So get out there with both barrels and don't worry about classifications, audience, whichever, until IF and when it becomes an issue.
Much good luck, Irene.
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Re: This one again |
Author: nic.h (---.tmns.net.au)
Date: 01-12-02 00:38
Thanks for the encouragement. You're both probably right. It's just that I've heard conflicting stories about how publishers feel about first novel sales, and also how reluctant they are to sign up for number two if it's significantly different in tone/style, etc...
Anyway, I'll put my cerebral energy to better use for the time being, and try to spend more time writing to be published rather than just thinking (read "agonising") about it. I'm clearly getting way ahead of myself.
Thanks again. I'm very glad I found this web site...
Cheers
nic.h
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