Thursday 1 November 2007

I've Finished!

I have just, and I mean in the last five minutes, finished my novel. At least, I think I have; I reserve the right to implement any brainwaves that may occur in the next few days - but I really do think it's finished. Two years and five months of my life; four complete drafts; many blog commenters who helped with the first draft; nine real-life people who gave me useful feedback on all or part of it in later drafts. And, of course, all the other novels and stories I wrote before, that never got published - well, let's be honest, most of them never got finished either - because they weren't good enough. Not to mention several writing courses attended, a couple of dozen how-to books read, and countless tips picked up here and on Racers' individual sites.

For the last month I have worked so hard. Luckily for me I was able to cut back on other work, and I was only asked to do two funerals in October. I've done hardly any socialising, and only had one or two days off; just book, book, book. The last week has been like finishing a marathon (at least I imagine it has; I aspire to never find out in reality). I've read the whole thing aloud, and as a result I have a sore throat - see how I suffer for my art!

I thought I would feel exuberant and celebratory, but actually I just feel emotionally drained and physically exhausted. I'd like to do a 'yay me' but I don't have the energy. Which feels odd, given that I've been working towards this for so many years. Right now I'd rather have a nice cup of tea than a glass of champagne - and, let me tell you, that is MOST uncharacteristic!

So I'm off for a rest. But if anyone wants to do some whooping and hollering in the comments box, I'd be most grateful; it might help me get in the mood to celebrate at the weekend.

And thanks, so much, for all your support.

21 comments:

Helen Shearer said...

Hi there.

You might not have the energy to do a Yay Me but I most certainly have the energy to do a big YAY YOU!!!! Well done. You must feel an enormous sense of relief. Take a much needed rest then get out there and party your face off. You've written a novel, after all. How many other people can say that? Good job.

Graeme K Talboys said...

Well done!

Not surprised you feel a bit deflated. I always do after finishing a book.

Best way to beat that I've found, after a well deserved rest, is (a) get it out to agents and publishers and (b) start your next one.

But rest first, put up your feet, catch up. And enjoy the the immense accomplishment you have achieved.

Lane Mathias said...

Whooping and a hollering here Zinnia.
Absolutely fantastic news!
Enjoy that cuppa and l'm sure you'll be celebrating by the weekend.
Well done!

Helen said...

Fantastic news Zinnia! I'm sure the sense of achievement will come in time. But for now from me a big WOO HOOOOOOO!!!!!!!!!

Kate.Kingsley said...

WOO HOO ZINNIA!!!!!!!

Fantastic achievement ~ well done!

Enjoy that well earned cuppa, and save the champers for when you're a bit more rested.

Well done again!

Kate K

Fiona Mackenzie. Writer said...

Yah and triple Yah!

What an achievement! They say that lots of people attempt a novel but few finish so am very pleased for you.

Rachel Green said...

Huzzah!

Well done Zinnia!

B.E. Sanderson said...

Hooray for Zinnia! Way to go!

I understand about the drained part. This writing thing can really suck the energy right out of you. Take some time off. Recharge your batteries. That's the best celebration your mind can have right now. =oD

KayJay said...

That is absolutely bloody brilliant news! Well done!

CL Taylor said...

WHOOP WHOOP HOLLAH HOLLAH!

Zinna bloody well done. I feel exhausted on your behalf but also so, so pleased for you. Hopefully the jubiliant will set in soon. You DESERVE that glass (or bottle) of champagne.

KeVin K. said...

Well done, kid.
Well done.

Zinnia Cyclamen said...

Awwww, thanks so much, you're all lovely. Had a lousy night's sleep - awake from 1 am to 5 am, my brain buzzing with all the things I now have to do, both novel-related and otherwise - but, nevertheless, feel much better this morning. I have friends visiting tonight so shall put the champagne in the fridge, nap this afternoon and be ready to par-tay!

Rowan Coleman said...

Well done Zinnia - that's fantastic!

Juliette M said...

Go Zinnia!!!!

I find your blog fascinating so I am keen to read your novel when it comes out. I am so pleased you finished! You should be really proud :)

May we all finish our own little darlings!!

Jenny Beattie said...

Oooh, only just seen this. Definitely a-whooping and a-hollering for you here in Bangkok. FANTASTIC news. Well done.
Jjx

NoviceNovelist said...

Zinnia - that is fantastic news - I'm grining and whooping for you!!!! Lovely to read that - I feel excited for you!!! Enjoy your champagne (or maybe you already have????)

Kate Harrison said...

Fabuloso, Zinnia. Hope your taste for champers returns, you deserve it!

And maybe some fireworks too?

Unknown said...

YAY!!!!!! Raising a glass to you :-)

Well done !!!!

sheepish said...

Absolutely brilliant news, get those corks popping tonight and really celebrate. I shall certainly raise a glass and wish you well.

hesitant scribe said...

Zinnia - I'm so pleased for you! That's fabulous news!!!

Zinnia Cyclamen said...

Thanks again, you lovely people. We did celebrate with a bottle of champagne last night, by which time I was definitely in the mood! A good night's sleep followed, and yes, there will be fireworks tonight!