Several writing friends have recently posted about rejections, first draft frustrations, and general writing blues. Writing is such a solitary activity that it can be really easy to internalize your demons and believe they are unique to you. But, I’ve got news for you. Demons are sluts. Sure they come to you and whisper in your ear, “You’re a horrible writer.” “No one will ever want to buy your books.” “This draft is garbage. You need to trash it and start over.” As much as we like to believe we are their one and only, the truth is we’re not. These writing demons are not selective. They play the field and whisper their lies to all of us. Now you know the truth, what are you going to do about it?
Just as in any relationship, you have a choice how you deal with unfaithful companions. You can believe the lies, give up, and wallow in the self-pity of defeat. Or, you can end the relationship and move on. I recommend the latter. Human nature wants to believe in redemption. If you study your craft more or rewrite that draft again, then you will find the path to enlightenment. Your words will glow on the page. Critique partners, slush pile readers and agents will weep at every brilliant word you write. The heavens will open and angels will sing. If you believe that, I’ve got a bridge I want to sell you.
The truth of the matter is demons lie. That’s what demons do. Don’t take it personally; they lie to everyone. So, how do you get through it? Beats me. I just submitted my second book and am dealing with a, “they are going to hate this book so much they will cancel your three book deal” demon. Plus, she brought a friend, “how did you ever believe you could write.” My normal coping mechanism involves alcohol and butter pecan ice cream. However, my Weight Watcher’s weigh in is tomorrow, and I fear the scale shaming demon more.
My biggest solution for destroying the writing demon is remembering famous authors who were rejected. JK Rowlings, Lucy Maud Montgomery, Stephen King, Ursula K. Le Guin, Debbie Macomber, Alice Walker, J.R.R. Tolkien, Kurt Vonnegut, and William Faulkner were all rejected at one time or another. Some of these authors have even posted some of their worst rejection letters. I’m grateful to have never received a rejection like H.G. Wells for “War of the Worlds.” The editor predicted: “I think the verdict would be, ‘Oh, don’t read that horrid book.’” The War of the Worlds was published in 1898 and is still in print.
The best way to defeat a demon is to expose their lies. How do you do that? Write the best book you can possibly write. Edit. Sell. Repeat. Nothing defeats demons like success. One word of caution, once you defeat one demon don’t think the battle is over. Unfortunately, one demon will be replaced by another. However, there is a weapon for every battle. Keep fighting the good fight and above all, Keep writing!