You know, for more than ten years, I wrote about my life and I think today what I was waiting on was a “happy ending.” In life there are no real happy endings, mainly because life continues. When I was reunited with my first born son a year and a half ago, I was able to write that last chapter, something positive to end the story with. Then, other events occurred and I went back to the MS to keep writing. It was more than journal writing; it became a different life, or maybe as you mentioned: healing. I do feel that the book has some merit, and would be beneficial for a large audience to read especially in today’s fallen economic times. Although, I may need to hire a ghost writer to help me or at least to click the send button. I think maybe I fear the word: rejection, more than about what others may think.

To have your life “rejected” in a typed up letter, would be hard to handle. Of course, I’ve survived so much, why is this one challenge so difficult! This is a rhetorical question of course. Ah– I’m venting.

The best part of my life has to do with creative writing, it can take a person back to review, or fast forward and dream. I’d like to find some middle ground where I can simply enjoy things and my writing while I can still remember my name

Thanks for “listening.”

– Katina

I understand how difficult it can be for writers who feel shy and vulnerable about what they’ve written, especially if your story was heartbreaking to write. So maybe just getting it out was enough.

Have you seen the book The Healing Power of Memoir? I wrote a post about it that you can read here: http://www.alanrinzler.com/blog/2010/01/10/writing-a-memoir-7-tips-for-defeating-your-inner-critic/

Who says everyone has to publish their memoir after it’s written? Or at least why rush into it? It could stay in your drawer for a while, and maybe you could self-publish later for selected readers who feel safe to you. If that feels OK, then you could try a wider group of trusted friends and empathic family members.

Ultimately you might feel differently, and could shift to broader submission, self-publishing, distribution and readership.

Although this discussion has to do with the blog, I’d like to throw something out here since so many amazing professionals have posted here:) If it’s not acceptable, my apologies.

I cannot seem to let go of my ms, even though it is written, and proof read. I’ve paid an editor to do a professional edit one last sweep if you will. Not even pre-paying can get me motivated to submit it. The story was heartbreaking to write and I still have some PSTD from some past traumas, hence the reason for writing this particular book. I’m afraid to admit that my book is beating me up. Any advice on this?

Again, please feel free to edit my comment reply if this is unacceptable. I have been trying to work on my book and I simply don’t want to ever read it again. Why do I hate it so much! Any book writing therapist in the mix?

Thanks,

– KW

Interesting to note that alot of the people leaving comments arrived HERE because they love Nathan.