From the department of what-some-would-call excuses, this just in…”You’re allowed to suck.”
And I do, often. But what I’m talking about doesn’t measure up as an excuse, it’s a matter of course for writers. I’m also finding that can’t be shared too often, particularly with those in creative pursuits. You could say I’ve become a disciple of suckage.
But, this isn’t a new concept for some. See some of my examples of how the “suck” mantra has come in handy and its origins.
Ira Glass did an eloquent spot on “Working through the Suck.”
Mur Lafferty’s I Should Be Writing
My first exposure to the suck came via I Should Be Writing. If you’ve never listened, it’s an excellent podcast on writing from the perspective of a wannabe (now published) writer. One of Mur’s best episodes (#63) couples having fun with the suck.
ArmadilloCon
I got my tailed kicked during the Cons Friday writers workshop. And it’s what I wanted. I could’ve played it safe, taken a story I’ve had reviewed and edited a million times over. But my fear of not being afraid to suck allowed me to take a troubled story and figure out–at the core–where I really struggle. And boy did I ever. The story and all of its holes were pointed out, with one reviewer offering, “I hate your villian…and not in a good way.” A little dejected–I’m sure most of us were–that’s when they brought in Guest-of-Honor John Scalzi to give a little pep talk on your “allowed to suck.”
The Dead Horse Society Part 1
Several months ago I joined a writers group called the The Dead Horse Society. In a Saturday meeting, one of my group mates complained about starting several stories and never being able to finish. She’d stall because she felt like everything she began “sucked.” I shared with the stories I’d heard from both Mur Lafferty and John Scalzi. And, I’m happy to report, after the pep talk, I spoke with her last week and she had written nearly 7000 words in a week’s time. Excellent.
The Dead Horse Society Part 2
Same group. Different verse. They don’t call it The Dead Horse Society for nothing. I took my first short story to the group for review. And it got beaten like a…
The basic feedback I received was excellent world building. But…lack of tension, unlikable character, confusing ending and, well, the list goes on. I listened…really listened. Afterwards, I got asked how I could take that much negative feedback. In fact, take it “like a champ.” The why for now is simple–I’m allowed to suck. But, as a result, I know my story will be better because I was able to leave my ego at the door and really hone in on the problems with the story. I took so much from the feedback that we’ll see if I can’t get it in shape for Writers of the Future’s last quarter.
Now, go suck.
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