Work in Progress
Writer: P.J. Alexander
Work in progress is a phrase writers throw around a lot. We talk about our WIP and ask other writers about their WIPs. Sometimes I think about the implication of that phrase, that a work in progress will someday transform into simply a work, a finished product. But is that really true?
When we purchase a book, it’s easy to think of it as a finished work. We presume the book has gone through countless drafts and professional editing, and was ultimately deemed complete and ready to be published for public consumption. But talking with authors in my circle and having written several books myself, I’ve come to believe the idiom that a piece of art is never finished, but merely abandoned.
The truth behind that idiom is painfully obvious every time I finish writing a book, a finality that feels more like a surrender, a whimpering defeat in the final battle of a war of attrition. The book is perfect in my imagination, so why isn’t it perfect on the page? Every book, no matter what stage it’s in, is a work in progress.
I first realized this when I started trading beta reads with other writers. I discovered that there’s no such thing as a bad book. Some books might be further in their development than others, but every book has the potential to become great.
I also realized that books aren’t the only things that are perpetual works in progress. Authors themselves are works in progress. We get better with every book we write. I don’t think it’s impostor syndrome when even accomplished writers confess to a continual learning process and admit they are nowhere near masters of their craft. Improving as a writer seems to be a lifelong pursuit.
Some lessons can only be learned the hard way, even the obvious ones we see repeated in craft books and blogs and memes. During my author journey, it’s been my experiences, particularly my struggles, that have shaped me and helped me improve. As a work in progress, I’ve learned that the essential ingredients for growing as a writer are reading a lot and writing a lot. I repeat that like a mantra anytime a newer writer asks me for advice.
I’ve learned through experience that writing has no rules, only tools. That’s not to say there isn’t a craft to writing—there certainly is. But it’s not about following rules or conforming to structures. It’s about understanding a variety of methods to achieve a goal, and developing the skill and instinct to mix and match those methods for a particular story. Just like a sculptor or a mechanic or any other kind of specialist, the more tools an author has at their disposal, the more effectively they can hone their craft.
On my journey, I’ve learned that first drafts are bad. Really bad. And more importantly, they’re bad for a reason. We’ve heard many times, “write drunk and edit sober”. The foundation must be built first, like filling a sandbox with sand. Writing without inhibition, allowing stream of consciousness to lead the way, is crucial to the creative process. If we aren’t pouring our feelings, our passion, and our very souls into our writing, why are we even bothering? Draft first. Edit later.
The second draft, I’ve discovered, is like magic. Sandcastles start to take shape. Symbolism emerges, and themes arise that I never imagined during the brainstorming stage. Characters come to life and grow all on their own, and that weird sense of author pride for our little creations comes to the surface. These are all parts of a work in progress.
Most importantly, I’ve learned to stay true to myself. We all have different goals as writers, maybe to break into traditional publishing, make a bestseller list, or like me, to follow our passion and write the stories burning in our hearts. I’ve learned not to lose faith in my work in progress as the months of hard work take their toll. When the shiny new idea that sparked our book doesn’t seem so shiny and new anymore, we must always remember that our work has value. We must keep our eyes on the prize.
Although I’ve learned a lot on my author journey, I have a lot more learning to do. I’m happy where I am as a writer today. I’d love to be better, but that’s okay. I am, after all, a work in progress.
About the Writer
I love stories! I couldn’t imagine life without reading and writing. I finally took the plunge into indie publishing in 2022, and I’m loving every minute of it. My favorite stories to write are character-driven fantasies featuring dark undertones with plenty of snark mixed in. I love the idea of my books bringing a little magic to a reader’s life. When I’m not writing, I’m on the hunt for chocolate, introverting, or wishing for a snowy day by the fireplace. I love connecting with readers and writers on Instagram @pjalexanderstoryteller, and my newsletter is available at my website.
Website: authorpjalexander.com