As an experiment I plugged the latest version of my memoir manuscript into the book format I used for “Helle” (6×9 single spaced) and two things became apparent. One, the 111,000 words came to 340 pages which is shorter than I anticipated. Two, some of the chapters are very short. I know some of the later chapters are filled with “tell” instead of “show” (or at least more tell than I’m willing to put out) so there are likely good opportunities for tightening and polishing.
On a related note I’ve figured out that I need to rewrite the bookends. While they are “good enough” as they are and do relate to one aspect of the story, they do not sufficiently relate to the main theme. I’ve gone through hell trying to figure out what that main theme actually was, and even though I’ve said before that I knew what it was, deep down I knew I hadn’t found it yet.
A friend says each time you overcome obstacles you are stronger for the experience. That may be true for other people but I’m exhausted, not stronger. No matter. All I can do is hope and pray that this time I have it right. From what I’m feeling – mostly fear – I think I might be onto something. What I’ve been feeling the past five years makes sense to me now. When will I be able to articulate that into writing is anyone’s guess. I’ve got “Helle” to get out in the near future, and I’ll likely do more renderings and work on “The Peacemakers” while reviewing “The Troubles”. It’ll get done when it gets done I guess. 😉
My memoir has always been about the search for truth. I just found more than I expected.
