I finished my first novel yesterday.
I confess I cried. Yes, near the end it brought tears both for the characters and me. Finishing a project is like wondering what to do on the day after Christmas. Content, but sad. Joyful, but empty. The idea for this story began thirty plus years ago. Yet it ended far differently than I envisioned. (Those willful characters again.) Now that’s it’s done, I’m amazed at the way it turned out. And glad. But sorry.
I have plenty of other work to do.
But today I found myself wandering. Mentally, emotionally and even in daily life. I actually made dinner early for a change because I didn’t have to drag myself away from writing. I hardly knew what to do with myself. Like an empty-nester whose chicks have all flown off, I’m ready for the next adventure, but not quite over letting the last one go.
Even my blogging is uninspired.
And that’s that. The end.
How do you feel when you complete a writing project?
Laura Bennet - Author 
When I finish a novel, I feel exactly as you describe. But not for long—in a couple of weeks it will be time to start revising. 🙂 In the meantime, I suggest doing whatever recharges you—rereading your favorite books, walking on the beach, some other, less taxing creative activity you enjoy like cooking or needlework.
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Thanks Katherine! I’m so glad to know I’m not alone. I appreciate your advise. I hope your new project is going well 🙂
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Wow! Congratulations on finishing your novel…that’s a huge accomplishment! Finishing a writing project is like finishing a really good book – satisfying and bitter all at once. It always leaves me looking forward to the next one!
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Thank you! Yes, looking forward to it. And then there is the book proposal…= O
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It’s just as you described. As the characters seemingly develop themselves, a powerful connection between us grows along with that. They feel as alive to us as we do to ourselves as they were born from our consciousness. Ending a book is relegating that bond, that relationship to a shelf in our memory room. That’s one big reason I tend to write series. Pity JK Rowling!
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So well said. Bella asked me about a series. I don’t know if I have the mental stamina for one. One book seems to be a lot. I didn’t know you wrote…?? Do tell!
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Thanks for sharing, Laura. And congratulations on finishing another book! I’m wandering too. Can’t wait for this season to pass. 🙂
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With confidence I know that your inspiration will bubble up inside you again to write things that will bless us all, thanks.
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Congratulations Laura! What an accomplishment. I felt like I had given birth to a new baby! May God give you favor with the publishing and distribution – what an adventure 😉
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