For the past two months I’ve been on a self-imposed writing hiatus – partly to let my completed first draft rest a bit, partly to reassert control over the other half of my life.
But now, this weekend, in a glorious writing retreat at Phillip Island, I’m allowing myself to look at the WIP again.
I confess I’ve been a little nervous about picking it up again. It got so big in the end, and there’s still so much I want to do with it. How am I going to wrestle all that into control? But I’m excited too. Totally buzzing.
I’m starting with a read-through to refamiliarise myself with the story. And then I’ll write a bunch of notes. And then… We’ll see.
In the meantime I have a gorgeous environment in which to spend a lazy weekend reading. We’re staying in a house right on the beach (hired with friends for the weekend). We can see the Ocean rolling in. Hear it too. Stunning.
Here are some snaps taken out our front door. That’s the house we’re staying in, centre bottom photo.
Looks beautiful! Sometimes the WIP needs distance. I have one that’s been through four complete rewrites and I haven’t looked at it in 2 years. I definitely want to make it better, but the distance will help with my objectivity. I couldn’t see its flaws.
Good luck to you on yours. Sounds like you have a good plan.
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Yes, I think distance can be good. So far I’m enjoying the read-through (mostly) so I guess that’s a good sign. 🙂
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That’s a very good sign!
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What a fabulous retreat space! I hope you have a great – and very productive – weekend 🙂
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It’s a great spot! Fabulous view. Atmospheric too. All I’m doing is reading so far — very pleasant…
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Yay for writing retreats! Gorgeous view. I’m headed to the coast today for a quick overnight stay. Not much writing will take place, but I’m looking forward to good company and the relaxation that only comes from gazing out at the ocean. Good luck to you as you start the revision journey. 🙂
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The ocean is super relaxing, isn’t it. Hope your view is as good as ours!
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I find going away to be great for getting in writing time. Nothing like waking up to fresh air with a great view to get the creative juices going. Have a great time down there!
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Yeah, I love getting away for a writing weekend. On my own is good, but even better with friends. Especially with a great view like we have here. 🙂
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Love the view! I’d be tempted to start a whole new book looking at that view. Happy reading and good luck with the revisions.
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The view was amazing! We want to go back again. And I know what you mean… one definitely should be writing about the coast in such an environment. 🙂
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