This is one of those situations in which watching lead to reading.
I really liked the early Agatha Raisin TV series, and they made me curious to read some of the books. I got my hands on some and off I went. The very first one I read was actually the very first that MC Beaton wrote about Agatha, the Quiche of Death one, and I loved it.
It was funny, witty, relatable, a very easy, lovely read. I went on to read others and I must say some are better than others. Also, to clarify, the most recent episodes of the series are a big disappointment. They over sexualized everything and the imagery borders on vulgar. Not my cup of tea anymore.
Still, I am a fan of the books and from time to time I pick one up from my library (so cool to say ‘my library’) and enjoy the light and airy stories.
I got the idea for a post after seeing a show (mini-documentary?) about how the TV series was created which gave some insight into how Marion Chesney, the real name of MC Beaton, wrote.
Her publisher shares that she could write a book in 30 days and never did edits.
I mean, yeah, I can see that in her works but this just goes to show that there is not just one way of doing things.
I enjoy MC Beaton, I enjoy Murakami, one does no edits, the other does extensive edits.
There is no one way. There is no comparing the two, they are different kettle of fish, and both are great story tellers.
I think it is all about the story.
Each storyteller will perform their art in their own way, using their own means of expression, what matters though is the story and for the story to be told.
More over, no reader is the holder of truth. I might like something while somebody else might totally dislike it. Writers should do what they need to do, some readers will like them, some will not, that is the way the world goes round and round.
I am quite sure that not even amazingly successful writers like the great Mr. King are liked by everyone, so writing and then being crushed when somebody says ‘Hm … interesting …’ makes no sense. Writers should just write, be their own person, hone their craft and go on, as time is a tickin’ and no amount of wallowing in self pity and self denigration will stop it.
So shake off that feeling of awkwardness and be like Marion, your own person and you might surprise yourself by actually creating something you will be proud of. It all starts with giving your self the chance to be a writer!
Now, if I could just follow my own advice …
In truth though, reading is an invaluable tool for a writer, it makes you think, grow and be more compassionate for your hopes and dreams, and why not, your human condition.