A Writer's Journey

By Barbara Irvin

Writing is a journey. If you are looking for some writing tips and some insights into the writing life, as well as some pithy poetry, this is the book for you. 

• Language: English
• Publisher: Barbara Irvin
• Release date: May 21, 2023
• ISBN: 9798223850885

Barbara Irvin

Barbara Irvin has always had a passion for words and literature. She began writing in her early teens and has never stopped. She has earned certificates for freelance writing, creative writing, and writing for children. Her publication credentials include The Beverly Hills Courier, The Penman Review, and The Washington Independent Review of Books. She resides in Pennsylvania. 

Book preview

Acknowledgments

Writing a book is never an easy task, no matter how short or long it ends up being. One must conduct countless edits and proofread. Patience and support are also necessary. Every writer needs encouragement to succeed. It could be as simple as someone asking how many words the author wrote during a particular day. A compliment can have an impact on the output of words one writes. Of course, some days are better than others. Let's face it. We can't always expect our creativity to be superb. On days when mine isn't, I do not dwell on the unaccomplished. Instead, I think about what I’m able to do. This, as well as a few people who have helped me along the way, is what keeps me moving forward in this often solitary profession. Each individual has inspired me in his or her own way, and this book wouldn’t be complete without a proper thank you to all of them. 

First, I must thank my parents, William and Debra. Without them, I wouldn't be here. They've always stood by me. To every teacher I've ever known, especially my first grade teacher, I couldn't have succeeded without your constant interest in my education. I cannot forget Mary Waldman, who watched me grow up. Jean Grey gave me a manual typewriter when I was just learning how to read and write, and it was the greatest gift I could have ever received. It was as if she knew I was going to become a writer one day. Kristi Zanker, whom I've known since 2003, has given me excellent advice when I've asked for it. This list could go on, but then there wouldn't be room for the book. 

Introduction

When I wrote my first book, which is titled Velvet And Cuddles: A Photo Book, I knew nothing about the self publishing world. My purpose for creating such a short manuscript was enjoyment. After its May 2022 release, I didn’t expect much to happen. My prediction was (and continues to be) correct. 

I know what I’m doing with this book. Perhaps it’s because much of it has been in the works for a couple of years. This book evolved when I wasn’t actually thinking about writing one. Psychologically that is the best time to take on such a demanding project because you are able to focus without feeling overwhelmed. At least that’s how it was for me. I could sit down and write without wondering if what I was putting down was good enough. If that negative voice tried to interrupt my creativity, I wouldn’t allow it. There simply wasn’t any room for pessimism. 

The ability to block out one’s inner critic isn’t always easy. It can show up at any time during an author’s artistic process. When it does, the effect is a fear of failure which is often brought on by a series of rejections. No one wants to receive a letter saying his or her work has been turned down for publication. Unfortunately, there is no way to avoid this. In order to write professionally, one must learn early on to deal with being rejected. The thing to remember is it