Hmm. I worry about my novel like a mother worries about her child going off to chainsaw camp.
1) I worry that none of my characters are likeable, that they are all such raving jackasses that no one cares about the journey. A reader has to care about the characters, even the bad ones, to keep reading the book. I'm almost done with the A. Burroughs book that I can't say I like because none of the characters, in my opinion, are likeable, but they are quirky and everyone loves to hear about teenagers giving blowjobs, hence the book was a bestseller.
2) I've started the whole crime element and it just feels forced and stupid. Like a bad improv scene, bridging "where's my brother! aaaaah!"
3) I think my mom thinks this book is something its not and will be disappointed in what it really is. Not that I care, but I'm sure she's thinking I'm writing a novel that venerates her as a victim instead of what it is, which is the protagonist being frustrated with her for acting like a victim. The character is based on her at her absolute worst. She's really more evenhanded and strong and fierce than Roberta Vahan, who is a giant mushpot if there ever was one. It's an interesting conundrum, I think. But I guess I'll find out when she reads it. I tend to misread her these days.
4) Unbelievable points? Perhaps?
Anyway, I am trying to be a good novel-mother, and understand that, like a child, this book will at times fill me with worry and at others fill me with wonder.
Have fun at chainsaw camp, novel.
4)
Posted by Zerd at January 19, 2007 12:06 AM