As a writer and lover of fiction, I thought I would share some of the books I have enjoyed these last few months. There is a longer piece in the writing, but I am not ready to share, so let’s dive into some excellent novels in the meantime. The Queen of Dirt Island
Bethany you just can't give up, we won't allow it. I am so looking forward to the day when I am slowly reading your book, physically in my hands, with a cup of tea. I know it will open my heart in a way I don't know yet, and that is priceless. (I'm still thinking of the pine marten in your kitchen!). If it helps at all, I find selling my art almost unbearable, but was comforted a little by a KT Tunstall interview - I've always loved her - where she said making art and selling art are two completely different things, with two completely different skill sets. Didn't change it, but at least I felt affirmed ... sending love xo
Lynn, I have reflected on this wisdom from KT Tunstall so many times in the past weeks, thank you for sharing. I find it hopeful as perhaps I can learn those skills I lack. Thank you for your beautiful encouragement x
Gorgeous to have some recs for reads. I too have faced the rejections and haven’t returned to my original proposal for over 2 years. It’s hard not to take it personally and equally devastating to our precious creativity to think of how the publishing houses are solely profit focussed. We need to convince them that our work is worth it and I find that very tricky. Your words bring joy and I for one would be delighted to part with my cash for a beautiful physical copy of your work. Much love x
I agree, it is so hard not to take it personally because it is so very personal to me! I am equally bad at the convincing part, possibly because I'm not quite convinced myself - I'm determined to knock that on its head. Return to that proposal, I'm 100% rooting for you x
Thank you so much for sharing me here. I hugely appreciate it. I think we may be reading twins too as I love both Donal Ryan and Elizabeth Strout! I think self-doubt hits me about once a day now so I completely understand the self-doubt/rejection pain. Wishing you the best with your ongoing wonderful writing.
Loved this post Bethany as with all of your writing. I’m so sorry to hear of the soul crushing experience post creativity. Big cheerleader here of yours. Sending strength, light and self-belief when you need reminding of it. Big heart hugs. Aoife x
Bethany you just can't give up, we won't allow it. I am so looking forward to the day when I am slowly reading your book, physically in my hands, with a cup of tea. I know it will open my heart in a way I don't know yet, and that is priceless. (I'm still thinking of the pine marten in your kitchen!). If it helps at all, I find selling my art almost unbearable, but was comforted a little by a KT Tunstall interview - I've always loved her - where she said making art and selling art are two completely different things, with two completely different skill sets. Didn't change it, but at least I felt affirmed ... sending love xo
Lynn, I have reflected on this wisdom from KT Tunstall so many times in the past weeks, thank you for sharing. I find it hopeful as perhaps I can learn those skills I lack. Thank you for your beautiful encouragement x
I love me some Elizabeth Strout!
Please keep writing. This part of the process may be awful, but at the end of it we get your words!
Thank you! I appreciate that so much.
Gorgeous to have some recs for reads. I too have faced the rejections and haven’t returned to my original proposal for over 2 years. It’s hard not to take it personally and equally devastating to our precious creativity to think of how the publishing houses are solely profit focussed. We need to convince them that our work is worth it and I find that very tricky. Your words bring joy and I for one would be delighted to part with my cash for a beautiful physical copy of your work. Much love x
I agree, it is so hard not to take it personally because it is so very personal to me! I am equally bad at the convincing part, possibly because I'm not quite convinced myself - I'm determined to knock that on its head. Return to that proposal, I'm 100% rooting for you x
I’m cheering and cheering!! We love your words, Bethany. Never give up! ❤️
Thanks, mum xx
Thank you so much for sharing me here. I hugely appreciate it. I think we may be reading twins too as I love both Donal Ryan and Elizabeth Strout! I think self-doubt hits me about once a day now so I completely understand the self-doubt/rejection pain. Wishing you the best with your ongoing wonderful writing.
Thank you, reading twin. I am encouraged to know that self-doubt is commonplace!
Loved this post Bethany as with all of your writing. I’m so sorry to hear of the soul crushing experience post creativity. Big cheerleader here of yours. Sending strength, light and self-belief when you need reminding of it. Big heart hugs. Aoife x
Thank you, my loveliest friend xx