why are you not writing?

[jerrymouse]

ahhh. got my coffee, got my ciggie and im ready to go. crap, i am writing here. ah well, i do like a bit of procrastination in the morning.

why arent you writing?

[alaskamatt17]

I'm not writing because I've been doing homework for my calculus-based statistics class for the past 2 hours. It is due in about 8 hours, but I intend to get some sleep between now and then.

[triceretops]

I opened the floodgate and finally knocked out 2,400 words tonight. It's about damn time too. I've been trying to justify the paranormal thriller that I started three months ago. I finally said, the hell with it and went ahead with it.

tri

[brunoshouse]

I'm not writing because I'm too busy reading what you are writing here. Actually, I'm just waiting for the coffee.

[Nicole_Gestalt]

I'm not writing at the moment because i'm having a break but I'll be going back to it in a moment :)

[Dario D.]

This is my eating break, at 2:45 AM.

[jerrymouse]

good bit of writing done there, despite being interupted by my wife popping home for a cup of tea. didnt quite finish the scene i am in but i did hit my word count target. this scene is so important. its the bridge from the end of the middle to the begining of the end. probably finish it monday now, i never write on the weekends, to busy watching rugby.

[swvaughn]

Cooooooffeeeeee. (My pot is slow).

[Penguin Queen]

Because I ought to be working on boring day job stuff.

Good question, though.

*logs off*

[KiraOnWhite]

Nose block...swollen inside and its giving me a major headache...

[Gonzo]

I've just got a new job, in the last few days - thank God! - and my first thing to do, bloody marking! I am marking essays that I never set! Because the old lecturer buggered off! Shesus! Oh well, it's all pay and bad grammar.

[johnzakour]

Man, can not write all day. I usually write in 45 - 75 minute spurts. Do something else, then go back to writing.

[Saundra Julian]

I get up early, silly muse doesn't!

[Shadow_Ferret]

Please. It's too early.

[citymouse]

I'm going through the edited version novel #3. I never mix and match work.

[PattiTheWicked]

I could be writing, but I'm supposed to be looking for a Real Job instead. Grrr.

[thethinker42]

I'm not writing because I'm at work. I'd much rather be writing right now. Blech. That, and I usually write at night...but this weekend I'm planning a marathon writing/painting session (I've got some stuff I need to finish painting in the next 3 weeks, so I'll be alternating between writing and painting) with a couple of trips to the gym in between. So much for housework...LOL

I'm taking a 4 day weekend next week -- $10 says I can knock out 20,000 words between now and next Monday! ;-)

[NeuroFizz]

Because if I write every waking hour of every day, I'll miss the fuel that stokes the writing--it's called living.

[DragonHeart]

I just woke up. I need to at least finish my coffee before I do anything.

[jerrymouse]

Because if I write every waking hour of every day, I'll miss the fuel that stokes the writing--it's called living.

an acquaintance said to me once, writers write. i had to disagree as i belive as a writer i have to (as you said, fizz) live a bit and sometimes do nothing but think-muse as it were.

[Namatu]

I'm really good at procrastination. First, must work at job that pays me. Next, must edit for freelance job that pays me. Third, must recuperate from all that work. Eating and sleeping and laundry fall in there too. Maybe next weekend? My writing goes in too-short spurts when opportunity presents itself and I manage to stop procrastinating. I love to write, but inspiration best comes when I'm too busy and have to really squeeze it in. Otherwise, it just sits patiently and waits. Foolish muse!

[Pagey's_Girl]

*Prods her muse* Wake up. Hey. Wakey-wakey...
*Muse responds with a pillow in the kisser, then goes back to sleep*

Anyone else have this problem? ;)

[Sohia Rose]

That's a good question. :)

I have three days left of my vacation, so I need to really get to editing. But I have a job interview today. Plus, I just woke up so I'm still drinking my coffee. Those are my excuses.

[jodiodi]

I'm really good at procrastination. First, must work at job that pays me. Next, must edit for freelance job that pays me. Third, must recuperate from all that work. Eating and sleeping and laundry fall in there too. Maybe next weekend? My writing goes in too-short spurts when opportunity presents itself and I manage to stop procrastinating. I love to write, but inspiration best comes when I'm too busy and have to really squeeze it in. Otherwise, it just sits patiently and waits. Foolish muse!

I can certainly relate. I only get to write between paying obligations and familial/domestic obligations.

[Yuallica]

I just finished writing a scene, and now I'm meant to be walking the dog. I'd rather write a bit more though, so I'm putting off turning my computer off...

[Sean D. Schaffer]

I'm not presently writing because I'm not fully awake yet. I don't trust my WIP to my partially-awakened mind. I want to be in full control when I start working this morning. It'll probably be another hour or two before I start writing today.

[Pamster]

I am editing my second novel which isn't finished and decided last night I would get back to it now. But it might be awhile before I get to where I can add, I am sitting here taking notes as I read along from the beginning and it's 50K words so it's at an awkward place. But not fear, it's easily finished in about 25-30K more words to give it the happy ending I want for the MC who suffered a lot and I feel bad for leaving the story unfinished for so many years.

I have written four and a half books in between the second novel and the fifth I began and almost finished last month. It's long overdue so that is what I am working on today, getting back into the swing of things and picking up and carrying forth the ending of the story. :) So if I am not as active for a couple of days, that's why, because I am working on the second novel. :)

Had this been posted yesterday before I came to this decision I'd have said I was just waiting for inspiration to hit and that it's been awhile since I wrote. I was taking a break from the heavy dut editing I was doing on my first novel for two weeks to prepare it for the Gather contest. I worked really hard on it and I am feeling stressed out because it has not yet been posted yet.

This week I have just stressed over what people will think because I am fearful of flames and part of me thinks I should have rewritten the opening chapter again. I feel stressed that it might not be my best work, but it's still my work and I am proud of it, yet I think it would be nice to see it critqued sometime in the near future if they get it posted this time. :)

[AndreaGS]

Ho hum. I'm at my day job and waiting for my boss to get in. I brought my lappy and will be writing on my lunch though! Hurrah!

[CaroGirl]

I'm at the day job, where I don't feel comfortable using company time to write, but seem okay with using company time to surf the 'net. Go figure.

[Judg]

Because if I write every waking hour of every day, I'll miss the fuel that stokes the writing--it's called living.
Ah yes, life. I tried that once... Now I hang out on message boards.

;)

[Namatu]

I'm at the day job, where I don't feel comfortable using company time to write, but seem okay with using company time to surf the 'net. Go figure.

Funny. Me too!

[scribbler1382]

I'm a Tech Writer by day...I don't think I can write anything when it's still light out that doesn't have the words "mission critical", "best practice" or "development methodology" in it. That would be one scary-ass story, for sure, but not quite the scary I usually go for. :)

[The Lady]

Pretty much the same reason as every one else. Checking out the forums to make sure I don't miss out on some real time action going down, and then back to work. If the computer is on, there's a good chance I'm writing. I seem to do it in twenty minutes chunks, surf and then go back to it.

[PeeDee]

I AM writing. I've done a thousand words already, and I've only been on for twenty minutes.

Lazybones.

:D

[Sean D. Schaffer]

...twenty minutes chunks...


That sounds like about the same amount of time I spend writing at once. Then I take a break and go back to writing later on.

[scribbler1382]

You can't just keep typing "All work and no play makes Petey a dull boy" you know. That's cheatin'!
;)

[platedlizard]

I was writing earlier, but now I need to clean and feed the critters and get ready for Work. Then I'll be gone until 9pm, and then I'll try to write some more. More likely I'll be too tired, but I certainly try.

[IrishScribbler]

I'm not writing because I'm at work (hooray for multi-tasking) and just taking a bit of a break from creating ways to convince high school seniors of their future alma mater.

[lfraser]

I'm not writing because I have to put together an on-line Application for Dispute Resolution to have a non-paying tenant forcibly removed from a rental house.

But my partner plays tennis later this afternoon, and the house will be blissfully quiet for about three hours, perfect for writing a chapter draft.

[arrowqueen]

I'm not writing because I have already written.

[Aeryn]

I am not writing currently (as opposed to typing ;) ) because I'm utterly uninspired.
That, and I'm beginning a writing course soon, and would hate to start it being totally ready, inspired, and raring to go! That would never do. ;)

(Translation: I'm taking a little break.)

[Willowmound]

When I'm thoroughly stressed out, when it feels as though the ground may disappear from under me at any second, my muse tends to hide in a corner. Because she's a scaredycat.

That's why I'm not writing. But I might try and haul her out later.

[Button]

I'm not writing because I'm at work. I'd much rather be writing right now. Blech. That, and I usually write at night...but this weekend I'm planning a marathon writing/painting session (I've got some stuff I need to finish painting in the next 3 weeks, so I'll be alternating between writing and painting) with a couple of trips to the gym in between. So much for housework...LOL

I'm taking a 4 day weekend next week -- $10 says I can knock out 20,000 words between now and next Monday! ;-)

I'm with you there sugar. Though my intense days start this week. I want to finish the novel I'm working on at the moment by the end of next week.

The reason I'm not writing right now... I've got a pinched nerve in my left hand. It's making two of my fingers numb. (Can anyone say corpral tunnel?) As much as I like the several long hours session, I can't do it now. I have to take some breaks, play a video game or something. ;)

Not that I need an excuse to procrastinate.

[Sean D. Schaffer]

I'm not writing at the moment because I'm done for the day.

[thethinker42]

The reason I'm not writing right now... I've got a pinched nerve in my left hand. It's making two of my fingers numb. (Can anyone say corpral tunnel?)

Have you ever tried acupuncture? It's worked WONDERS on my carpal tunnel (and arthritis...and tendonitis...and fibromyalgia...). I don't have fibromyalgia anymore, and the arthritis in my shoulder (from a bad spill off a horse 6 yrs ago) has improved so much I can lift weights again with no pain (up until 6 mos ago I couldn't even sleep on my left side, so trust me, that's a HUGE improvement). He fixed my friend's Bell's Palsy in a matter of 3-4 weeks (docs said 7-8 months) and found -- and removed -- the underlying cause of her asthma (wheat allergy -- who'd a thunk?)

It took me YEARS to finally go because I"m a total needle-phobe, but the man is worth is weight in gold.

Oops, didn't mean to ramble. LOL Not trying to threadjack... I just whore acupuncture out every chance I get. LOL

Back to your regularly scheduled conversation...

And now, I'm not writing because I'm busily raving about acupuncture...

[Serena Casey]

I'm not writing because I find that writing is an all-or-nothing proposition for me. I have to be totally "in the zone" in order to write anything convincingly, and when I don't have enough uninterrupted time to get in that zone, nothing gets written. This is probably just an excuse because I also happen to be a great procrastinator, but it feels like a real reason.

[Sean D. Schaffer]

Right now it's my day off, so that's why I'm not writing at the moment.

Tomorrow, I'll be back at it.

:)

[janetbellinger]

Walking dogs but also because I'm feeling too lazy to do the work I need to do on my novel

[September skies]

....too many other things (or a certain someone anyway) on my mind......

can't think - can't write - can't do anything right now..... what a wonderful feeling.

[CheshireCat]

Procrastination.

I'd worry, but it seems to be part of the process. So I just join writing forums or play mah jongg.

At least until I look at a calendar. :poke:

[Gabriel]

I'm too busy being a moody misunderstood teenager getting mixed messages from his parents. Nah, I'm kidding, I'm just sitting in the dark listening to depressing music, who loves scarling? ME!

[Atlantis]

Well, lets see, its 8.30am in the morning and I've just played the Sims for 2 hours so after I have something to eat and a shower then I might do something....I didn't do anything yesterday...I'm stuck on a really boring scene...I'm kinda avoiding it....

[KiraOnWhite]

Eating a bowl of cornflakes....drinking milk next...

[The_Grand_Duchess]

I'm not wrting becuase I'm tired and fighting sleep. I also am getting over a cold. So there.

It feels like an excuse to me too. . .

[C.bronco]

Because it's beer o'clock.

[Serenity]

I'm researching Piaget and Kohlberg for a class, having a beer, and trying to work my way back into the focus of my current idea by getting rid of an old idea.

[Evaine]

I'm making a wall hanging of a medieval hunting scene, which is using up most of my creativity at the moment - that and learning to knit!

[amber_grosjean]

I really don't have a good excuse why I'm not writing right now. I was working on my latest novel "Guilty" when I realized I reached a point in the story way too early so instead of finishing like I normally would do, I decided to begin editing now, adding as I go to the scenes and character development. I have added about 15 more pages by doing so and I'n not even close to half way to the point where I left off. I'm happy with the story but its too short, about 40 some pages now. I have a long way to go, I know. lol

[A.M. Wildman]

I'm not writing because it's Sunday. I figure one day a week off isn't horrible. (I am blocking out scenes on index cards while I surf, but that's technically not "writing".) Not to mention today's weather. It's 11 degrees with 25mph winds, so a windchill of -4 or so. Whcih means I'm doing my impression of a blanket blob :D

[Akuma]

Does reading count as writing??:gone:

[ChaosTitan]

The cat's on my lap again, and she's hard to type around.

Besides, I've put about 1500 words in the bank today, I can take a break. ;)

[Sean D. Schaffer]

Right now I'm taking a break from my writing. I should be back into the swing of things in the next half-hour or so. I very much want to get that chapter I'm working on today, done. It seems to drag on forever.

At least I'm mostly finished. Only four pages of original manuscript to go.

:)

[stormie]

Took the day off. Having fun with the new, improved AW. And staying calm.

[farfromfearless]

I am struggling to get work done for my day-job (Art Director) whilst fighting off the flu - terrible thing that ugly little virus - I edited 14 pages of my MS last night, hopefully will have more time tomorrow.

[Vaxil]

....I just dont feel like it. -_-

[Sean D. Schaffer]

Finished my required writing for the day, though I will be writing again before too long. Probably within the next hour or so.

[Mr. Funktastic]

College is not treating my writing life very kindly right now.

Grr.

[Sean D. Schaffer]

It's getting late, and though I've done more writing like I said I would, I probably won't do much more. I do want to get the page in my typewriter finished tonight, at least, but otherwise, I'm so tired I don't think I should keep going until I fully awaken tomorrow.

Talk to you all later.

[Cassiopeia]

When I am not writing it is usually because I am not happy with what I have produced..am feeling insecure and want to flee from the possibility that I suck at this. :) But I am writing again so it is all good :)

[rihannsu]

Well, for 40 hours a week, I have to do this "work" thing. Then there's the hours that I sleep.... ;)

[Hillgate]

I've just eaten a bar of Toblerone Chocolate. Works every time.

[stormie]

I'm eating dinner. My keyboard doesn't like foooo. Oops!

[September skies]

Eating a bowl of cornflakes....drinking milk next...

Hey! That's what I am doing! Well, except that I am eating them together...and with bananas

[jennifer75]

I'm in between two major events in my WIP and I can't figure out how to lead into the second. So I'm here instead.

[Ms.Write]

Because it's freezing cold here (-23 degrees with windchill) and I didn't make it to the library. Also, I'm starting a new chapter with a character I haven't written yet and I have to get inside his head. Will write tomorrow.

[Novelust]

I'm too close! I'm at that place where I feel like I've completely lost objectivity. It's that weird, snowblind feeling, where you're not sure how to move forward - or even which way is forward.

[jennifer75]

I'm too close! I'm at that place where I feel like I've completely lost objectivity. It's that weird, snowblind feeling, where you're not sure how to move forward - or even which way is forward.

I feel your pain, except that I know where I am going, I just don't know which road to take to get there.

[Sean D. Schaffer]

I am not writing because I'm over at my Mom's house and I forgot to bring my paper with me, even though I remembered my typewriter.

[jerrymouse]

i wrote one word yesterday, the name of my main character. i was a bit stuck but i thought about it all day and ive got it now. i should easily hit my word target today and finish the scene i am in, then i am going to buy a bicycle.

the 6 nations rugby tournament starts this weekend. its gonna be hard to concentrate on my writing for the next 7 weeks.

cmon wales!!!!

[Nicole_Gestalt]

I was feeling ill yesterday and couldn't see straight (is that a good enough reason? I didn't half feel guilty not writing though!)

As for now well i've just got up so i'm going to get a drink and some food before I start writing - I've goto make up for the lack of writing yesterday.

[Stew21]

it's going to take coffee to get me there. I'm on my way though.

[stormie]

Yup, I agree with Trish. It's hard to start writing without my coffee. Gotta get out of this chair, though, and pour the water into the whatchamacallit. Too lazy right now. Think I'll just stick around AW for awhile.

[MistOfShadows]

Why Am I Not Writing?,< That is the Question:

Ohhh Oohhh... huh?... why?.. Who said I wasn't? heheh. shhhhhh not supposed to tell no one... anyone ya' hear?

(sneaks off ever so quielty trying to keep the keyboard buttons from making ticking sounds)

[Sean D. Schaffer]

I have a hurting wrist, and I'm waiting to talk to a police officer.

[A.M. Wildman]

I'm not writing at the moment. I'm stuffing my face with 8 hot, delicious, melt-in-your-mouth homemade pancakes and fresh coffee. :D Once the need for food has been taken care of I can then attempt to engage my brain and try to write something.:)

[Shara]

I think I'm not writing because I'm currently working on the synopsis, and having trouble. So I keep looking for excuses not to go back to it.

Shara

[scarletpeaches]

I'm not writing because I've just used up all my creative juices on a 900+ word sex scene.

I didn't know I was that filthy! Seems an anti-climax (ho ho) to go back to the 'normal' lives of my characters now.

[Pagey's_Girl]

Because I just spent ten minutes tracking down, saving, and coloring in (with Paint) a nurse picture for a card for someone who's leaving to start a new career.

This is probably why I don't get paid the big bucks... :)

[Meerkat]

I don't think any novels shall be written anywhere during February....assuming the caption contest in OP ends anytime in February, that is.

Gotta go, now...

[Sean D. Schaffer]

I just woke up, maybe a half-hour ago. I'm not going to write until I am well awake and have gone to the grocery store.

I'll talk to you all later, and I hope you have a good Thursday morning.

:)

[skelly]

I'm not writing because I've just used up all my creative juices on a 900+ word sex scene.

I didn't know I was that filthy! Seems an anti-climax (ho ho) to go back to the 'normal' lives of my characters now.
And the line to critique that scene forms right behind me :D

[-Draco-]

I'm not writing right now because...wait a minute...I am writing right now. Wow, I'm still writing...still writing....ok now im done.

[Sean D. Schaffer]

I'm not writing right now because...wait a minute...I am writing right now. Wow, I'm still writing...still writing....ok now im done.


Welcome to the Water Cooler, -Draco-. I hope you enjoy the forums.

:welcome:

[Meerkat]

Good one Draco! Welcome to AW, man!

[truelyana]

A Dissertation lol

[thethinker42]

I have a hurting wrist, and I'm waiting to talk to a police officer.

Which begs the question...just what did you do to your wrist that requires you to talk to a police officer???

[jennifer75]

I'm not writing because I've just used up all my creative juices on a 900+ word sex scene.

I didn't know I was that filthy! Seems an anti-climax (ho ho) to go back to the 'normal' lives of my characters now.


Only 900 words? :roll:

[scarletpeaches]

Size isn't important...;) (So they say).

[-Draco-]

Thanks for the welcome guys!

[Esopha]

I'm not writing because I'm doing my math homework.

Which I will start...in ten minutes. Hopefully.

[stormie]

I'm in mourning over my broken bottle of peppermint schnapps.

[Sean D. Schaffer]

I'm not writing at the moment because I'm trying to find a new place to live.

I've not been evicted or anything... yet... but I do not wish to live in the same building as the person who lied to the police the other day about the relationship she had with me. Anyone who's willing to lie to the police about something like that, is not good for me to live anywhere near.

[jerrymouse]

i have only writen one word this week. shame, i was on a good run. i bought a bicycle, you see. mmm, distraction.

[Pamster]

I am not writing this morning because I just don't feel like it. I sent out a couple more queiries this morning and just feel emotionally pooped, too pooped to write.

[swvaughn]

I am decompressing from work-writing, and preparing to shift into getting-paid-for-this-some-day writing. :D

[jpserra]

Because I'm in this forum, reading about why other people are not writing.

Shame on me. I have a novel to finish.

John

[Pagey's_Girl]

Taking a break - besides, I need to do some serious fact-checking before I go any further with this particular scene.

[Hillgate]

I'm trying to avoid burn-out.

[stormie]

I'm digesting my lunch. Sheesh! Everyone knows that you have to sit nice and quiet and not think for an hour after eating.

[BlueBadger]

My husband's in the bedroom (where my laptop is) playing "Phoenix Wright: Justice for All" and laughing like a maniac.

[Robyn]

my lunch break hasn't started yet! but.. 1 hour left then ill be able to write!!!

[Sean D. Schaffer]

I've been all over town today, including the local Barnes & Noble and the grocery store. I did write last night, though not much, and I'm thinking about writing for the first time today, within the next few minutes to an hour.

[Dixie]

I'm not writing because I've once again wasted time on AW. But tomorrow I am shutting myself in my room and pushing the pen to the paper and not stop until I've pushed out the 500 or so words I promised myself. These two snow days have wreaked havoc on my routine.

[scarletpeaches]

I am not writing because I'm a lazy so-and-so who would rather read other authors' blogs than get her backside in her own work chair.

[Sage]

I'm not writing 'cuz I'm watching The Dresden Files ep from last Sunday.

[Sean D. Schaffer]

I finished Chapter 14 tonight (it's about time!) and I'm taking a break from writing until Sunday. Tomorrow's my day off.

I hope you all have a good day tomorrow.

:)

[Enzo]

Hardly writing this weekend ... because I'm going for a walk along the river, there's the local annual book fair, a couple of new artsy cafes I want to check out, the fine arts museum I haven't been to for more than a year ... and then there's absolutewrite. Just a great forum to pick up information.

But come Monday, I'll be spending the morning in one coffee shop and the afternoon in another one, and my fingers won't be leaving my laptop alone. That's when I'll be writing. Seriously.

[arrowqueen]

Because it's Saturday and I'm pissed as a fart?

[Kasilius]

Why aren't I writing? Because I'm in a computer programming class as far away from my work as I can be.

[Sean D. Schaffer]

Because it's my day off.

[skelly]

Because it's Saturday and I'm pissed as a fart?
Yes! Tips a beer in arrow's generally vicinity. Except I'm writing.

[stormie]

I don't want my train of thought interrupted by seeing the mail carrier come up my walk, put letters in the mailbox, leave, me racing down the stairs, yanking open the door, grabbing the mail, strewing it all over the place, looking for anything addressed to me, crying if it's a rejection, rejoicing if it's an acceptance, or reading the junk mail, acting like it's really, really important that I know shampoo is on sale at Wal-mart.
<Whew>

[Zonk]

Because I'm at work, selling drugs.;)

:D:D:D

[OverTheHills&FarAway]

Because my character has no motivation at this moment, or else won't tell me what it is, and I'm sick of stalling by dancing around the subject. How many ways can I describe a sunny day that is somehow ominous? Let's find out!

[Toothpaste]

Because I just can't seem to do it. I sit here. Look at the MS. And nothing. I'm going to go try again. Wish me luck.

[verbie]

I've been thinking about checking in here for a couple of weeks, but I didn't get around to it. I've been writing. So, I stop writing to check in, and what happens? The very first thread I pick, I get clobbered for not writing!

But, I'm going to have my coffee and poke around a bit anyway. I'm pretty new at this forum, but I really like it and have to fight off the desire to be here more often.

[Sean D. Schaffer]

Because it's not quite sunset yet. After sunset, I should have some time to write.

:)

[stormie]

Because it's not quite sunset yet. After sunset, I should have some time to write.
And why is that??! http://bestsmileys.com/vampire/3.gif

[Sean D. Schaffer]

And why is that??! http://bestsmileys.com/vampire/3.gif


Blah! Blah! I vant to... yeah.

Seriously, I'm trying to follow the Hebrew Calendar when it comes to my day off. In case you haven't guessed, my day off is the traditional Sabbath day of the Old Testament. I've been looking into a religion called the Noahide Creed. Even though I'm not commanded in the Noahide Creed to keep the Sabbath Day, I do wish to try to keep it as closely to the Jewish way as I can, because according to tradition, G-d Himself rested on the first Sabbath.

In the Hebrew calendar, at least as far as I understand it, a day begins at sunset, and ends just before sunset the following day. The reason, if I understand correctly, is that the Bible says "And there was evening and there was morning--a ... day."

So that's why I am waiting until sunset to do more writing.

BTW, I like the Dracula smilie. I thought that was pretty darned cool. Is it a new feature with the boards?

[stormie]

Duh, Catholic that I am, thanks for explaining that to me!
As for the vampire smilie, that comes from here (http://bestsmileys.com/pageindex.htm).

[Sean D. Schaffer]

I'm preparing for a shower, and I did do some writing earlier, to the tune of about five pages. Roughly 1,250 words. I think that's pretty good for one evening.

I'll do some more tomorrow, if I can.

:)

[truelyana]

I'm not writing because, my imagination would be squashed in an academic box. Eventually though, will have to start writing 'academically' aggghh

[janetbellinger]

I'm not writing because I am afraid
that I won't be able to think of anything worthwhile to say
that it will all come out trite

[Hillgate]

I really don't know.

[Hillgate]

...why I'm not writing.

[IrishScribbler]

I'm not writing because I'm supposed to be heading over to my mother's for Sunday dinner. Just popped in to say hello.

[janetbellinger]

I actually wrote a poem this morning and am going to work on a short story this afternoon. Other than that I'm just wasting time.

[Sean D. Schaffer]

I'm busy eating my breakfast. I'll be ready to write in another half-hour or so.

[stormie]

I just came back from the Staples store that just opened up near me. New pens, highlighters, mechanical pencils, ink for the printer.... My son had to pull me out of the store.

[Sage]

My roommate is playing Kingdom Hearts 2. She was just at Beast's Castle & now is in The Land of the Dragons (Mulan). My fave Disney movies... I'm getting nothing productive done today (maybe rewriting my synopsis if I'm lucky. I certainly won't be able to concentrate on fiction).

[Lady Esther]

I'm procrastinating by being on this board.

[Gabriel]

I'm doing work for school, oh the pain, the sorrow, my heart shatters with each letter that I type.

[Sean D. Schaffer]

I'm taking a break from writing, though I do plan on working on Chapter 16 before too long.

:)

[Hillgate]

I'm waiting for someone to call. If it's you, and you're reading this, please hurry up!!!

[Sean D. Schaffer]

Because I'm preparing for Breakfast, and trying to wake up.

[maddythemad]

I'm not writing because I have the flu or something, and I can't concentrate on writing a synopsis.

[alaskamatt17]

I just wrote a few pages, but I keep checking AW, and that is at least redirecting my fingers from the words they should be typing more than I would like.

Not that you aren't all great people, or anything. I just spend too much time on here when I should be typing on my WsIP.

[Sean D. Schaffer]

I'm taking a break right now. I should be finishing up Chapter 16 within the evening.

[jerrymouse]

hooray. i wrote stuff. couldnt do it last week. a minor niggle about how to start a sentance at the end of a scene led to 7 days of critical review of entire plot.

all is well. the story progresses and i find myself at the end of the middle and begining of the end.

hopefully the extra pace of the story at the end will lead to an increase in the pace of the writing.

[Willowmound]

Because it's late, and I should be in bed.

I have pokey springs in my bed. I'll have a herbal tea and see if that doesn't help. I have to get up early too.

Oh and I did my writing already, hours ago.

[Pagey's_Girl]

Because I just finished a chapter and I need to put it aside for awhile before I go back and do a first edit. Otherwise I'll be reading what I think should be there, not what really is there...

[A.C.]

Hmm, right now I'm in my college English class...

-A.C.

[IrishScribbler]

I'm not writing because I'm too busy trying to salvage my ethics.

[Sean D. Schaffer]

I'm not writing... and probably won't today... because I'm going to go apply for an anger management group across town.

I look forward to learning to better control my anger... seriously. I lose my temper all the time, and am getting very tired of it.

[TsukiRyoko]

I'm not writing because it's too cold. It's distracting and I can't think very well, so I'm going to piss around on the net for a while longer (before crashing on the couch again, probably. Honestly, I doubt I'll get any writing done today).

[stormie]

Hey, Ian, it's great that you recognize that and are getting help.

Why am I not writing? I just came back from Susie's House of Peace, Calm, and Serenity, and I'm sooo relaxed. Maybe a little too relaxed.

[Cassiopeia]

I'm not writing... and probably won't today... because I'm going to go apply for an anger management group across town.

I look forward to learning to better control my anger... seriously. I lose my temper all the time, and am getting very tired of it.Bless your heart! Good for you!

[lfraser]

I'm not writing because I'm enaged in an absolutely horrific bout of procrastination. No excuses here. The brain is not in gear, the will is submerged, the attention span is flitting about, and what I want to do is play a computer game, and so I'm hanging around here pretending to be all writerly-like instead of actually doing the thing itself.

And now having made that admission I will take myself off and plant my head in the chair instead of just the arse, which does none of the writing, or at least none of the writing that I want anyone to see.

[Sean D. Schaffer]

Thanks, everyone, for the well-wishing with the anger management program. The program I applied for was no good, as it deals specifically with domestic violence and substance abuse. They did, however, refer me to another organization that does deal in particular with anger management such as I need help with.

So the day is not entirely a bust.

Right now, I'm not writing because I'm listening to Star Wars and posting on here. I probably will write some portion of my re-write tonight, to the tune of part of Chapter 17.

I'll talk to you all later, and I hope you have a great evening.

:)

[expatbrat]

... because I have pregnancy brain and I keep writing crap which I then delete.

Maybe tomorrow...

[Toothpaste]

Because I finally just finished my edits!!!!!!

[Sean D. Schaffer]

Because at this early hour I can't possibly think until I've had my caffeine.

[triceretops]

Because I'm at the 1/3 mark and having anxiety attacks over it. Bad ones. Waking up after three or four hours, trying to write, putting it off and getting dispointed. It's where the plot is really supposed to take off and I'm having trouble deciding which direction to head for optimum impact. Tough, tough going.

Tri

[Sean D. Schaffer]

Because I'm at the 1/3 mark and having anxiety attacks over it. Bad ones. Waking up after three or four hours, trying to write, putting it off and getting dispointed. It's where the plot is really supposed to take off and I'm having trouble deciding which direction to head for optimum impact. Tough, tough going.

Tri


Ouch! Anxiety attacks are no good. I personally think you should get a little resting done, with the intent that you'll be able to write your next two-thirds of the work with a fresh perspective. Maybe just give it a day or two, but resting your body can also help to quiet your mind and give you the needed creativity that I think you might be looking for.

As always, I wish you the best Tri.

:)

[stormie]

I just finished a final revision on an essay and wrote up a cover letter for it. Taking a break now to go have breakfast.

[Sean D. Schaffer]

I am not writing at the moment because I'm here... although I will be writing very shortly, probably within the next few minutes.

:)

[The_Grand_Duchess]

Becuase I'm seriously thinking about taking a nap. I'm worred that as soon as I lie down the baby will be up though.

[Sean D. Schaffer]

Because I'm taking a break for lunch.

[Dixie]

Because I just got done with my 1,000 words for the day. The more I do this writing thing the more addicted I become. ;)

[Cassiopeia]

Because I just got done with my 1,000 words for the day. The more I do this writing thing the more addicted I become. ;)Good ...good for you :)

I am writing...just not on my WIP. I am writing a very important letter to an Uncle I adore.

[IrishScribbler]

Good ...good for you :)

I am writing...just not on my WIP. I am writing a very important letter to an Uncle I adore.

Equally (perhaps more) important.

[Hillgate]

Good ...good for you :)

I am writing...just not on my WIP. I am writing a very important letter to an Uncle I adore.

He's not your agent is he? :)

[inanna]

I honestly don't know. I've really sucked these past few days. Editing is different from writing, and I'm finding it hard to get any momentum going. This is more like eke-it-out, nose-to-the-grindstone work. It's not fun or terribly inspiring, so I suppose this is the stage where I prove whether I've got what it takes.

[Hillgate]

I honestly don't know. I've really sucked these past few days. Editing is different from writing, and I'm finding it hard to get any momentum going. This is more like eke-it-out, nose-to-the-grindstone work. It's not fun or terribly inspiring, so I suppose this is the stage where I prove whether I've got what it takes.

I just remember that 'no pain, no gain' mantra when I'm sat at my desk at 2am with that horrible paranoid feeling I've missed something...

[jennifer75]

I haven't written an thing in over two weeks. I've had a two week long headache.

[WildScribe]

I'm just putting it off like a bad girl. I'll get it done, though, I promise.

[scarletpeaches]

I'm not writing 'cause I've been out all evening and got myself a good big headache. So why am I staring at a laptop screen? Good question. Think I'll go to bed soon.

[Sean D. Schaffer]

Because I'm sitting here contemplating all the problems I have in writing and publishing.

For instance, my desire to never be criticized has hindered my progress tremendously. I'm afraid of being criticized because some deep part of me considers this a personal attack.

So I'm sitting here wondering how I can overcome this pitfall in my own writing--and personal--life, as well as several other pitfalls I suffer from.

[Christine N.]

I'm too busy laughing over this stupid letter PA sent me. That's why I'm not writing.

Oh, wait, if I let it distract me, they win!

Back to work.

[Cassiopeia]

He's not your agent is he? :)nope but he is the MOST amazing person EVER ! And I have been neglecting him

[lfraser]

Because I'm sitting here contemplating all the problems I have in writing and publishing.

For instance, my desire to never be criticized has hindered my progress tremendously. I'm afraid of being criticized because some deep part of me considers this a personal attack.

So I'm sitting here wondering how I can overcome this pitfall in my own writing--and personal--life, as well as several other pitfalls I suffer from.

Perhaps you're confusing criticism with critiquing. Criticism has a negative connotation, whereas a critique is, if done in the true spirit of the exercise, a constructive exercise, and one that you might need in order to gow as a writer. I, for one, am utterly unable to judge the quality of my own work, and I can't imagine finishing my WIP and just sending it off to publishers without having people critique it.

The first (and only) time I ever submitted a short story for critiques I didn't sleep well for days before the crits were due. I was certain that the story would be torn to pieces. But although the crits helpfully pointed out a number of flaws, almost everyone was very encouraging about the actual writing. I came away from the process astonished and happy.

You might have the same experience. You never know.:)

I go through the ups and downs as well. I suspect we all do. One day I feel that I have a chance at this thing, and the next I'm sure I'm never going to be anything more than a hopeless, talentless hack, that people will laugh at what I've written, that I'm wasting my time and energy and I'd be better off forgetting about it. When that happens I sometimes don't write all day, and then at around midnight, when I get sleepy, the words start tumbling around in my head and I'm back in business.

The best way to get over a fear of something is to just do it. So my suggestion would be to get some crits on your work.

[Sean D. Schaffer]

Perhaps you're confusing criticism with critiquing. Criticism has a negative connotation, whereas a critique is, if done in the true spirit of the exercise, a constructive exercise, and one that you might need in order to gow as a writer. I, for one, am utterly unable to judge the quality of my own work, and I can't imagine finishing my WIP and just sending it off to publishers without having people critique it.

The first (and only) time I ever submitted a short story for critiques I didn't sleep well for days before the crits were due. I was certain that the story would be torn to pieces. But although the crits helpfully pointed out a number of flaws, almost everyone was very encouraging about the actual writing. I came away from the process astonished and happy.

You might have the same experience. You never know.:)

I go through the ups and downs as well. I suspect we all do. One day I feel that I have a chance at this thing, and the next I'm sure I'm never going to be anything more than a hopeless, talentless hack, that people will laugh at what I've written, that I'm wasting my time and energy and I'd be better off forgetting about it. When that happens I sometimes don't write all day, and then at around midnight, when I get sleepy, the words start tumbling around in my head and I'm back in business.

The best way to get over a fear of something is to just do it. So my suggestion would be to get some crits on your work.


I think you're right. I'm already in the process of revising an Erotica short, because I decided enough was enough and I was going to do something with my work beside letting it sit in a drawer. The work is coming along fantastic... albeit slowly. But I am overjoyed by the abundance of good writing within this revision.

As for submitting it, I don't really know where to submit it, so I guess that's part of getting out of my comfort zone. I've never been very good at looking for new things or trying out new ideas, so the whole submissions thing has been completely nonexistent for me up until now. Tonight I will probably perform the needed spell-check on my piece and see immediately about either getting a critique or submitting to an e-zine or other paying market.

Like I said, I think you're right. It's a matter of just doing it, if I want to get past my fears. And a lot of times I do confuse critiquing with criticizing. It's a hard thing for me to realize that people are not criticizing me as a human being, but rather critiquing my written work. This is something I will definitely have to work on.


As for why I'm not writing at this moment, it is because I'm taking a break from my writing and warming up some organic Yuban coffee. This is the first coffee I've had in weeks, so I'm already wired.

I'll talk to you all later, and I hope you have a good night.

:)

[jennifer75]

I haven't written since New Years. I don't know why. I just havent felt like it. It's still alive, I just can't pick it up right now.

[Shady Lane]

Because usually I have to force myself to...haha.

I'm supposed to be researching some agents right now. Instead I stopped by here.

[Sean D. Schaffer]

Because I'm so dead tired that I can't even think straight ... and I'm too busy procrastinating by writing posts on this forum.

Well, there goes any legitimate reason I have for not writing.


If you'll all excuse me, I have some work to do...

[infinitus_kaze]

I'm not writing because next week is finals week!:cry:

[emsuniverse]

I'm facing a difficult scene and I don't want to write it, damn it! :)

[blacbird]

Because it's futile.

caw

[stormie]

Here it's 1:30 in the morning, and I can't sleep. I'd hope I could write something, anything, but all I can do is read and post on AW.

[Raphee]

At work and just had a tiring conversation with an employee who is quitting. the Singaporeans who won't follow the instructions of a Purchase Order, the wife who is having troubles at home with the men renovating the bath, a customer who doesnt like the contract we have offered.
Have to re organise the new office management when the older employee leaves.
And thats just the start of my day.

[Oddsocks]

I'm facing a difficult scene and I don't want to write it, damn it! :)

I'm glad I'm not the only one who does this! There's a scene that's been putting me off (and which I've been putting off) for about a week (pathetic, I know), but today I finally got started on writing the lead up to it. But I think it'll have to be in next session...

[bsolah]

I don't exactly know why I'm not writing. I mean, I have ideas and theories as to why I'm not, and I've blogged them numerous times, but I'm not getting anywhere. Actually, I wrote for the first time in a fair few months last week, 800 or so words and then another 500 or so on Monday.

The problem is, it's not a coherent story, it's just images and ramblings.

[swvaughn]

'Cuz!

*stomps*

(my foot is asleep...)

[jodiodi]

Work, housework, family obligations--you name it.

[Thump]

Because I recently finished writing a short I'd been writing for two years (makes you wonder when I'll finish the novel eh?) and am rewarding myself by taking a break :D

[Kay_XX]

I wrote 1000 words today, but not on my main WIP. I've now got 3 WIPs going on at the same time. I like to spread out, I do. And procastrinate. That I like very much.

[Novelust]

I'm at work! :)

[IrishScribbler]

Because I'm at work for two more days, and while I don't have much to do, I couldn't get away with editing my WIP at my desk.

[Sassee]

I'm at work! :)

Ditto!!! :tongue

(That, and I'm jumping around all over these forums trying to read everything...)

[aspiringwriter]

Well I am writing :) right now. :)

[ChaosTitan]

I just got home from work. I'm pondering dinner and letting my brain relax a bit.

[Shady Lane]

Now I am writing! I tend to break between sentences.

[The Lady]

Because my heart is broken sorting out a virus problem on my computer. I hate Norton Anti Virus. So, so, much.

[Inkdaub]

I got evicted and I'm stressed out. I have trouble with focus at the best of times.

[Sean D. Schaffer]

Right now, I'm sitting here writing on the AW forums, although I'm pretty much done with the typewriter for today. I wrote 17 pages of outline today and 10 yesterday. I am basically just chilling out with some old 70's music on an ancient LP.

Inkdaub, I hope everything works out for you soon. Being evicted ... that is one hard thing to handle. I wish you the best.

[Chasing the Horizon]

Because I've already revised or entirely rewritten 10,000 words today and my characters are giving me a migraine.

[kristie911]

I am writing...sheesh, leave me alone! A person can't get a moments piece around here. I take a five minute break and you all are up in my face.

:)

[jennifer75]

Myspace. Yes, it's true.

[job]

A break. A break.

I critted for the Forum I'm SL in between 0830 and 0930, while I was eating breakfast.

Worked at Starbucks on the revision of Chapter Three of JESSAMYN between 0945 and 1420.

Came home. Took dog for a walk 1430 to 1500.

Read gmail. Listed books at PaperbackBookSwap. Dropped by home Forum to check messages. Came here to AW, where I'll post one or two messages maybe.

Next up ... fix myself lunch. Make preparation for dinner. Clean fish tank.

Around 1700 I'll sit down to work for another couple hours.

[Sean D. Schaffer]

Because I've already written my quota for the day ... and because I am debating whether or not to write some more tonight.

:)

[sf.writer.mdk]

I just can't seem to get past the thought of whether I should work on novels or short stories. So what do I do? Nuthin'. Please, somebody, give me a swift kick.

[Inkdaub]

Inkdaub, I hope everything works out for you soon. Being evicted ... that is one hard thing to handle. I wish you the best.

Thanks. It'll work out in the end but it's a pain right now. I wasn't prepared to move is the thing.

[Nolita]

GL to Inkdaub.

Just sitting here on Procrastination Street. Scared. I'll get over it.

[Willowmound]

Because I'm at work. It's my lunch break, and I'm a little tired 'cause I woke up in the middle of the night and wrote untill 4 AM.

I'm allowed not to write :)

[The Grift]

I am writing! A paper for one of my final law classes ever.

[scarletpeaches]

Because I'm eating.

[Niapri]

Because I'm not sure I want to do the work. :p I've got handwritten scenes that I need to place in the timeline of my story, and I'm not sure where they go. The more scenes I add outside the original outline, the longer the story seems to get.

Oh well, off to work now. xD

Inkdaub, good luck to you - I hope things work out for you sooner rather than later. *hugs*

[DragonHeart]

I have a large cat sleeping in my lap, which makes it difficult to reach the keyboard. Also, I need to get ready for work. Blah.

~DragonHeart~

[Sean D. Schaffer]

Because I'm sitting here listening to The Chicago Transit Authority, Track 6, on my stereo.

And I'm so tired I can hardly think straight -- moving furniture around has a tendency to do that to a person. I changed my place around in numerous ways tonight.

[Kristin Landon]

Because I wrote all day. Scribble, scribble, scribble! Are we never to have any rest?

Because the head of King Charles I was beginning to make its usual appearance.

Because my children were starving (for tuna melts).

Because research beckoned ("What Not to Wear" was on, and I may someday write a book set in the present).

Because how much sex can any two characters have? Really!

[bsolah]

I'm not writing because I'm busy reading lame ass excuses for not writing and realizing that they're all better than my excuses.

[scarletpeaches]

There's snooker on the tellybox.

Ali Carter's at the table and wild horses couldn't drag me away from watching his cute self.

[Sean D. Schaffer]

Because I just got up and because it's Saturday.

[scribbler1382]

Because I'm helping my daughter build a castle for a school project.

Okay, right now we're flying the remote control helicopters we bought when we went out to look for medieval characters...same diff. :)

[Sean D. Schaffer]

That sounds like fun, Scribbler. Best wishes with the castle!

--

I'm not writing because I just got up and haven't had my coffee yet. I'm not truly awake until I've had a couple cups of coffee.

[LitChick]

I'm not writing because I have rewritten my novel five times now. I am fried. If I were to sit down and write right now, it would be pure nonsense.

Then again, maybe I'm just procrastinating.

Mmmmmmm. Tuna melt. Now I'm not writing because I want a tuna melt.

[majilique]

Not writing? Hmmm. I got back an intense critter that I have to pretty much rewrite, at the very least, the first chapter. I probably knew that already, but having it confirmed helped.

Eventually, I have to take my hard copy and 'bleed' all over it, so at the moment I'm surfing the forum as my brain simmers on how to go about rewriting/working the chapter.

db

[Sean D. Schaffer]

Because right now I'm online, and my daily quota is completed.

I might, however, write more tonight, depending on my mood.

[bylinebree]

That is a very good question...
I checked e-mail for some adult company (the good kind, get your mind out of where it is) and tried to open some music files from my hubby. But couldn't figure them out.

Then my teenagers started fighting so I broke that up before it got uglier. Then I sat down again - so now I am wondering the same thing.

Why don't I go upstairs and WRITE?
Think I shall.

[Shady Lane]

Homework. "Discuss two themes of the Ramayana." Fun.
And my teacher doesn't know what a theme is. She thinks "loyalty" is a theme.

[DragonHeart]

I'm taking a break. Just completed the rough draft for one short story, so I'm going to stop and get another coffee and breakfast before I start the next story.

~DragonHeart~

[Sean D. Schaffer]

Because it's not quite 8:00 in the morning yet. I want to wait until after eight to start working on the outline, because my typewriter is pretty loud -- don't believe it for one moment when you see a manual typewriter with the word 'quiet' on it. Quiet it ain't.

[LeeFlower]

I'm not writing because:

-I just today fulfilled all of my academic responsibilities for the semester. My last paper is turned in*, my last class is over, and my last mandatory day at my placement ended a few hours ago.

-Northern Ireland is fabulous, and I intend to enjoy it thoroughly before I have to return to my native side of the pond (which is why I'm leaving after I post this).

-That's what nighttime is for.

*Last paper: '"Women as symbols in literature can be viewed as empowering, but only dubiously so if the image is a death-bringing one." Discuss the relation of the magna mater to death and sacrifice in the works of one or more writers.' 2,000 words. And on top of that, I had to write it in one day with practically no sources due to computer issues beyond my control. Thank you, John Scalzi, for being a pixel-stained technopeasant wretch (http://nielsenhayden.com/makinglight/archives/008844.html)-- The Sagan Diary (http://www.scalzi.com/whatever/004836.html) just saved my donkey.

[stormie]

I was answering Midnight Muse's thought on the Share The Thought That's Running Through Your Head thread. (Hey, that rhymes. Maybe I'll start a rhyming poem now. Okay, I'm outta here. Maybe.)

[Sean D. Schaffer]

Because the guy next door to me has been throwing a fit off-and-on for the last day-and-a-half. I'm afraid if I use my typewriter he'll get even more violent than he already has been.

I'm not kidding. :(

[MarkButler]

Because I have finished the fun part (rough draft) and the tedium of rewrites and fixing apostrophes and -ly words is a total bore. I would so much rather be writing a glorious new rough draft of something exciting.

[Sean D. Schaffer]

Because it's just after midnight and I don't want to wake anyone up ...

Of course, here I sit with a stereo blaring in the background, playing early 70's Rock. Sometimes I wonder how it is I think the typewriter will be harder for people sound asleep to handle than a 145-watt stereo ...

You know? Maybe, since I am awake still, I should think about possibly typing up one more chapter outline before going to bed. I mean, if the worst that happens is that someone slams the wall next door, I can always stop.

I think I might just go to writing one more chapter outline after all!

:)

[scarletpeaches]

I'm not writing because talking to Emma on MSN suddenly seems more pressing. ;)

[stormie]

Waiting for the coffee to brew. How can I even think without coffee???

[IrishScribbler]

I'm waiting for my turn in the bathroom so I can shower and get to work.

[deltasierra]

Because I'm horribly blocked in a story I've been working on for months, and I'm afraid to start rewriting AGAIN.

And I worked my tail off yesterday cleaning the house. I think I deserve some relax time. ;)

[Sean D. Schaffer]

Right now, I'm not writing because I'm anticipating a cleaning job I have to do in two hours for a neighbor. I just bought the supplies and am just now waiting for 1:00 PM to roll around so I can get to work.

If I can, I'll be writing after the job is done at three.

[jerrymouse]

i am not writing today because i am trying to find out if it was cloudy or not in northwestern Bolivia at lunchtime on the 22nd of april 1392. my story will not work unless i get this right. research, eh.

[bsolah]

I'm not writing because I'm trying to find a copy of this game, Worms, so I can procrastinate.

[CoriSCapnSkip]

Don't wanna burn out all my brilliance at once, and have to set aside time for winding down from the sheer anxiety of worrying about writing.

[AndreaGS]

I'm at my day job. I'll be working on my book during breaks and lunch though!

[Willowmound]

I write in the mornings and work during the day.

This is the day.

Hence.

[Sean D. Schaffer]

My coffee's not done, and I don't write well when I haven't had at least two cups of coffee.

Although it does sound like it's about ready to start percolating any time now.

[Stew21]

I've been in a slump. Not an excuse? Agreed. I lack the discipline to be a serious writer? Possibly. Just gotta wait for the wave to come back, I guess.

[LBW66]

Just 'cause I don't feel like it. Unfortunately it's been close to a week. I think I have the submission blues. I know I should keep writing, but am wondering if it's worth it and if I really want to do this. Discipline, desire, the ability to spell and use a comma all seem rather lacking at the moment.
-Laura