On the whole, it’s a good policy for an author not to have to much invested in a particular piece, or a particular draft. Good writing involves a willingness to discard: to ditch an idea, to rethink an approach, to scrap a particular scene and start again.
But there are exceptions. Right now, I’m happy to tell you that this author has a lot of pride in a forthcoming production. Two little productions, indeed: for my wife and I are expecting twins, due some time in August.
To say we’re thrilled is undercooking it. We feel ridiculously lucky and blessed. And yes, I know that a pair of newborn twins is going to wreak havoc for a while. But bring it on. A little more havoc will be entirely welcome. I’m 45 years old and up for a bit of mid-life disruption.
Of course, the one sacred duty of a crime writer is produce one novel a year, come hell, high water, or a houseful of screaming newborns. Quite how that is going to work, I don’t quite know, but what the hell. The twins are a-coming. My life is going to change. And I’m delighted.
Congratulations! What marvellous news. I get the feeling the havoc is going to be worth it somehow. Novels can wait! Bless you all.
This is such great news! Congratulations. In a year’s time, you won’t be able to remember a life BC.
Wow!Wow!Wow! HUGE congratulations. Let the chaos begin – hehehe
What wonderful, life changing news for you both… congratulations.
Oh, Harry.
That’s wonderful news. I’m so very pleased for you both.
Having babies was simultaneously the very best and the very worst thing I ever did. But the good stuff way outweighs the bad.
Twins.
Blimey.
Lovely news! Enjoy!
Harry, Debi has just drawn my attention to this – many congratulations! Lovely news!
However, a word of advice from a mother of five: Write that novel NOW, before arrival date. Afterwards, the first few weeks of sleepless night will leave you too exhausted to think straight. Trust me!
Ann