National Novel Writing Month is in full swing, I one of the insane participants attempting yet again to commit fifty thousand words to paper/computer during this month of November. You got but a glimpse into the manuscript presently being crafted when I shared an excerpt from "Isles Of The Sea" in my October 20th "Of Scots And Scotland" blog.
Enthusiasm and Perseverance are most valued, or so the NaNoWriMo folks tell we thousands worldwide who are undertaking this pursuit of sleeplessness. It is, as they say, a writing program for everyone who has thought fleetingly about writing a novel but has been scared away by the time and effort involved. Well let me tell you that I have written more than a few novels and I still find much benefit in having my metaphorical feet held to the fire.
As we few spend November writing, we draw comfort from the fact that, all around the world, other National Novel Writing Month participants are going through the same joys and sorrows of producing the Great Frantic Novel. "Wrimos" meet throughout the month to offer encouragement, commiseration, and—when the thing is done—the kind of raucous celebrations that tend to frighten animals and small children.
In 2008, NaNo had over 120,000 participants. More than 20,000 of them crossed the 50k finish line by the midnight deadline, entering into the annals of NaNoWriMo superstardom forever. They started the month as auto mechanics, out-of-work actors, and middle school English teachers. They walked away novelists.
So readers, take a moment from you busy day and send a good wish or two their way. There's a buzz in the air...many around you are spending their evenings parked in front of a computer instead of that other glowing screen and doing something few will ever do---actually write a book.
Bravo to you intrepid souls who are thus occupied. And to you who read the fruits of our insanity, thanks for being the wonderful audience you are. For the reader is entertained by the writer, but the author is the changer of worlds.
P.S. Happy Birthday M'dear. (You know who you are) Break a leg and this one's for you.
