Ever notice that artists, singers, actors/actresses, and authors have a lot in common? Not long ago, I equated being a writer with an Olympian, and I saw the similarities as the athletes prepared for their moment of competition, hoping for their best performance ever. Each time I begin a new novel, I pray that it's better than the previous one...that something in that next attempt reaches out, grabs attention and earns me my "moment."
That comparison still applies but now I've added other entertainment fields to the mix.
What is the commonality, you ask? Unless an author touches the reader's heart, just as any other performer, we've lost our ability to connect. People buy artwork because it's appealing to the eye. Singer's voices and the lyrics connect the a listener's heart, actors and actresses are the vehicles through which the words of a screenwriter are conveyed. Like SHOWING in a novel, those holding movie roles must become the person, feel their emotions, experience their pain. Working for a Grammy, Oscar or recognition of any kind takes devotion.
In the ten plus years that I've been writing, I've learned more than I could possibly list here. Through my recent class taught by Cheryl St. John, well-known HQ author, I've received validation of what I know to be true. Rule number one: The reader has to care! Not everyone will, and that's a fact.
Some art lovers adore Monet, others don't. Most women swooned over Patrick Swayze in Ghost while others considered it romantic drivel.
Some music lovers grieved the loss of John Lennon; personally I was never a Beetles fan and his passing saddened me, but I cried when Luther died. He touched my soul with his songs.
Conflicting opinions continue in reading as evidenced by two reviews of the same novel: one appreciating and one picking the book apart. But I still apply rule number one and work to make whoever reads my book care about my characters, my plot, my storyline. If I don't, then I won't ever please anyone, and that would be horrible. I'm sure every other "artist" has faced the same dilemma and disappointment, but that doesn't stop a professional from reaching for "that moment."
You are right on Ginger. I had several readers that loved one of my books, but no agent has, LOL!
ReplyDeleteIt's all a matter of different tastes. We do keep writing because we love it, and hope for our "moment".
I know for a fact that you're a better writer than many who are published by major publishers.
Thank you, Diane. A compliment like that coming from you is indeed an honor. I know how many books you've edited and how hard you work. Consider I feel the same way about your work. I love your upcoming release, The False Light so much and I can't wait for the continuation. Get busy!!!
ReplyDeleteSo true, Ginger. It really comes down to reader preference.
ReplyDeleteI also think it comes down to just telling a darn good story to entertain readers and pull them into the world you are writing about.
Nice post.
You are so right about the different tastes, and that is why we have such a variety in film, art, music and books. What a dull world it would be if it was all the same.
ReplyDelete