The Naysayers
I've met a lot of them. Some of them were probably spot-on about my questionable talent. A few were just assholes. Most likely didn't care enough have a thoughtful opinion. "Can't" is easier than "can." "No" is more convenient than "yes."
Alas, I'm stubborn. I was raised by an awesome family who said I could achieve anything I set my mind to.
Nannynannybooboo. Sticks & stones. I'm not giving up.
All I needed was a clue. I'd happily work to earn success. I would learn. I would improve. I would do what it took to get what I wanted. Still will. Still do.
Somehow, I'd managed to get a degree in English Writing without learning a damn thing about the publishing process. (This was in the days long before the Internet and Self-Publishing. Back when personal computing was breaking into the mainstream.) Query letters? Synopses? Pitches and hooks? I didn't get those answers until I joined Romance Writers of America (RWA). Gods bless 'em, they were the only group who accepted unpublished, utterly clueless aspiring authors into their ranks. They gave me the information I desperately needed, supplied avenues for networking, and set me on a path of continual learning to improve my craft.
It's been a while since I've penned a romance, but the generosity of the Romance community is something I still hold very dear.
Hat tip to the naysayers. They'll always be there. Pushing me to be better. Ensuring I enjoy every moment of proving them wrong.
Early on in my career I told my mother my plans. She looked at me, heartbroken and said, "Honey, you know you're gonna fail." I know she meant to prepare me for the worst.
ReplyDeleteI responded with, "Watch me."
Having enjoyed your Seven Forges series, I'm so glad you stayed in the game!
DeleteSo many stories like this! Ugh. But good on you both for not listening.
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