Writing Diary

Perfectionism is such an overdone topic online. And yet, after all this time hearing about it, I think I’ve got something new to add. To me, it seems obvious: in an impatient society, perfectionism gets brutally attacked in favor of speed, rapid creation, and efficiency. Experts are out, and the ones who are always “right” are internet gurus who’ve never studied anything with love, pull a “truth” out of nowhere, and shout it loud for everyone to hear.

And let’s be honest — everyone’s tight on money too, which adds a huge sense of urgency to everything.

But along with that mindset comes the complete erasure of the idea that, to do something well and make it special, you need time.

The Lusiads took 15 years to write.

The Chronicles of Narnia, 8 years.

The Hobbit, 2 to 3 years (and Tolkien even took a break in between).

On the Origin of Species, 20.

Today? “Write your book in a single day with ChatGPT!” Oh, come on. What a ridiculous ad.

Meanwhile, I’m here staring at my manuscript like:

“How can I make this scene better?”

“What’s the best angle or perspective?”

“How do I increase the intensity?”

“Is this really enough to say what I mean?”

“What word fits best here?”

I don’t know if I’m a dreamer or just plain naïve for believing in creating things with soul. Maybe a bit of both. Or maybe I’m just really good at rambling, and what I actually wanted to say is: This week’s scene was tough to write, but not without its triumphs!

I finally found my villain’s name! Hihihi.

See you next week,

B.R.