Comments on: Advice to Myself Regarding Book-Writing, to be Re-read as Necessary.

By: Flotsam » Tiny Violins.

Flotsam » Tiny Violins. — Tue, 08 Dec 2009 04:34:02 +0000

[...] trouble remembering what those things are. I am reminding myself of my own excellent advice from back in October, that I needn’t take perspective so far that I get sucked into a relativistic swirl of shame [...]

By: JG

JG — Tue, 20 Oct 2009 02:01:30 +0000

“Maybe you’re getting a little old for self-deprecation.”

LOVE.

By: Stefanie

Stefanie — Fri, 16 Oct 2009 15:44:33 +0000

My advice when you’re questioning your abilities and deservedness? Think of all the professional writer out there that suck. That helps me everytime.

By: Stephanie

Stephanie — Fri, 16 Oct 2009 02:23:08 +0000

I don’t know you, but I just love you. I know you will do great.

By: Kim

Kim — Fri, 16 Oct 2009 01:55:50 +0000

… and also it occurs to me that while writing a blog isn’t *exactly* like writing a book, it’s not as different as, say, lumberjack work. Given the number of absolute strangers who weren’t required to read your blog out of any familial duty, but have read every post for months or years now… I hope it’s clear that people, real people, and lots of them, want to read what you write about and love the way you write it.
Same Alexa, just wider margins and that new book smell (not you, the books… ).

By: Clover

Clover — Fri, 16 Oct 2009 00:40:28 +0000

Alexa,
There was nothing “ordinary” about the trauma of Ames’ death and Simone’s early birth. There’s a book I’ve heard of and while its about a specific type of trauma (abuse), its title is relevant to all kinds of grief- its called “Strong in the Broken Places.” And you are definitely that my dear.

By: suzanne

suzanne — Thu, 15 Oct 2009 17:47:29 +0000

Do it, Alexa. You are talented. It’s going to be good. I am going to buy it, read it, and love it. The end.

By: MJ

MJ — Thu, 15 Oct 2009 15:36:14 +0000

That sentence? Highlight it, so that you can feel like you’ve done something, and then leave it alone. Either you will suddenly figure out how to fix it as you’re falling asleep some night, or you can talk to your editor about it when you’ve finished the book. That’s what editors are for.

By: kristin

kristin — Thu, 15 Oct 2009 08:55:34 +0000

This could be my own personal statement about my life. Isn’t it so sad that we, and I specifially mean women, tend to be so insecure about our strengths. You have amazing insights! Can’t wait to read the book.

By: Emily

Emily — Thu, 15 Oct 2009 07:20:56 +0000

I’ve never written a book, but I love this post. Just think, the sooner you finish, the sooner your adoring masses can purchase said book and prove your self doubt wrong!