One of the things I didn’t realize I would get when I signed up for NaNoWriMo was a pep talk from Lemony Snicket. Lemony Snicket, possibly the most ill-fated writer ever born. He took time out from his busy schedule of running away from ill-intentioned people in quest of unpleasant truths he will likely wish he’d never sought, to write a pep talk to me (and everyone else who signed up for NaNoWriMo) trying to talk us out of pursuing a path that would be difficult, painful, and ultimately leave us unfulfilled. I like all of the pep talks I get from NaNo, but Lemony Snicket’s really struck a chord with me. I especially like this portion, which seems to have been written especially for me:
“Of course, it may well be that you are writing not for some perfect reader someplace, but for yourself, and that is the biggest folly of them all, because it will not work. You will not be happy all of the time. Unlike most things that most people make, your novel will not be perfect. It may well be considerably less than one-fourth perfect, and this will frustrate you and sadden you. This is why you should stop. Most people are not writing novels which is why there is so little frustration and sadness in the world, particularly as we zoom on past the novel in our smoky jet packs soon to be equipped with pureed food. The next time you find yourself in a group of people, stop and think to yourself, probably no one here is writing a novel. This is why everyone is so content, here at this bus stop or in line at the supermarket or standing around this baggage carousel or sitting around in this doctor’s waiting room or in seventh grade or in Johannesburg. Give up your novel, and join the crowd. Think of all the things you could do with your time instead of participating in a noble and storied art form. There are things in your cupboards that likely need to be moved around.”
You can read the entire pep talk here.
Unfortunately, I read this caution too late.
50,374 is my verified word count. I’m a National Novel Writing Month 2010 WINNER!
Imperfect Happiness 
Sounds like some non-alcoholic wine is in order. I’ve produced lots of lots of things that you could add up to 50,000 words but never anything that includes all 50,000 in one place, so I’m excited for you. Job well done! Now – to publish!
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Well done you!
Only 261 words to go for me. But I am having a break until tomorrow.
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Almost there, ruthl! I’d planned on taking the day off, but when I found myself with some kid-free time on my hands this morning, I thought I’d best jump on it. I was surprised at how exciting it is to be at 50,000!
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