A writer needs three things, experience, observation, and imagination, any two of which, at times any on of which, can supply the lack of the others.
– William Faulkner
These days, there’s too much to do.
Writing is such a passion of mine. If you’re reading this, it may be the same for you. I’ve always found the time to routinely clack out even just a hundred words on a keyboard. Something, anything to keep the craft alive inside me. Bit by bit, stories would come together. But lately, it’s been a hard go.
That lack of time toward writing can feel so painful. I love blogging but it has been harder than ever to get these topics flowing. I haven’t worked on a short story in a year. Also, my manuscript is sitting in purgatory, needing only a final act. That act is already thought through several times over by now. It’s seat time, lengthy opportunities to sink in and churn out pages, that’s been lacking.
Can I complain? Yes. But, should I? Well, in reading back some of my work, both old and newer, I really shouldn’t put up a fuss.
Why? Well, what my writing has been interrupted by tends to provide artistic gifts all of their own. Adversities from work, family, and just living. Life lessons from those around you, who are going through the same (or worse) trials. Getting to travel and spending time outdoors. Being inspired by new books, shows, music, and movies. It all adds up to an accumulation of experiences that informs my art.
That’s what makes looking back on older pieces a little tough. The growth I’ve had since writing certain details, plot points, and character traits make some of it look stock or templated, rather than living on its own. Even in the novel I’m writing, the beginning has a different rhythm when compared to how I write now. The lack of consistency I’ve already noticed is a good reminder that, for a piece to at least feel cohesive in and of itself, you need to get through it front-to-back before being informed by too much else. I am going to dedicate myself more to a stricter schedule when starting Draft #2.
I suppose this could be interpreted as a summation of words meant to give myself permission to not write as often. And, hey, that’s part true! But I also want the other busy people out there in the world to know it’s alright if you don’t have the time like you used to in your teens and twenties to create art. That’s okay, those life experiences you are having now are informing your art later, and it will be that much better for it.
Keep turning the page,
Chris
See Preston Write 
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