Before I was published, I decided it would be a good idea to meet some local authors. So one Saturday afternoon, I attended a book signing at Borders in Longmont, Colorado, where a bestselling author was signing his books. He warned me by saying that authors are heavy drinkers, but then went on to say that we also have the good life, as we set our own schedules, get to travel, and in his case, go skiing every weekend. I don't know about the rest, but I do get to set my own schedule, as erratic as that is.
In a recent edition of Writer's Digest, one of the contributing authors warned that, when attending a writers' conference, you should figure out how much whiskey you'll need and pack twice as much. How come all these authors relay on booze to get them through? The reason is simple: stress. Being a creative person is exceptionally stressful, because not only are we called upon to be forever creative, we have to deal with rejection as well.
One author who lives in Loveland warned me that I should psych myself up for rejection, because I will get plenty of rejection letters. He said he wallpapered his bathroom with his. I've gotten my share, and I have to admit, it's a big letdown when one comes. So much so that I find myself in tears. Most editors/agents don't even read your material, I'm told. If their slush pile is too high, they just reject everything. Getting "in" by attending seminars, conferences, etc. and meeting people in person helps, but it isn't always a guarantee, and disappointments are limitless. So to all you aspiring writers out there, just remember,we all go through our hard knocks. Now where did I leave that bottle of tequila?
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