Fear and the New Idea

Normally, when I'm in the middle of writing a novel, some new idea tries to worm its way into my brain. It's like a ferret searching for treasure. "Oooo! Shiny!"

Normally, I can jot down some notes for analysis later, then return to my previous project.

Not this time.

Since Sunday, I've obsessively cranked 6100 words, which is an incredible output for me. I'm a very slow writer compared to some folks. The end result will be a short story for a particular traditional market that I've been a fan of for nearly thirty year.

My goal today is to finish it. About another 1,000 words and it'll be done. I'll hand it over to DH for a beta read, then let it sit for a couple of weeks until the submission period for this market opens. Final edits, then email the text.

I admit I'm nervous. I've never written in this particular subgenre before. Never thought I had an idea that was unique enough for this market. I think I'm more scared that it'll be accepted rather than rejected.

If it is rejected I'll self-publish it later this summer. Let the people decide if it's any good.

In the meantime, I need chocolate...