So far, November has provided me with lots of writing time. I’m esconced in the second novel, still untitled (although in a couple of grant applications, I’m calling it Mistake, which doesn’t really bode well).
The great thing about having plenty of writing time is that it’s possible to really delve into the characters’ moods and quirks. The story begins to have more continuity, and a little detail mentioned on page 9 is able to return on page 99. On some days, my head remains inside the novel, which feels like a decadent and fortunate place to be because ideas come much easier than if I’m less involved. It also means that I’ve got to work harder to pull myself out of it when I have to switch gears and work on other things or with other people (or risk exposing poor social etiquette). These things might be consulting work, psychotherapy or promoting Stealing Nasreen.
Speaking of which…
I’ll be reading in Ottawa at the Collected Works Bookstore next Friday, November 30th, at 7:30pm. I love going to Ottawa; I went to school there and still have some friends living there. If you are in the area, please come and say hello.