Waiting: Acquiring Patience Through Metaphor: Part Four

You can read Parts One, Two and Three HERE

The time I spend actually writing usually seems to fly by. The problem is waiting for the responses from publishers or agents or even you crit partners.

            

Fishing is the best metaphor I know for the process of writing and waiting.

            

First you have to get you gear together. This equals gathering the materials you need. Pen and paper, research books and notes, envelopes and stamps and the final finished product, are all part of your gear and pieces of the puzzle.

            

Next you have to find a good fishing hole. This equals researching publishers/agents you hope will be interested in your story. Then, bait your hook and throw out the line. In other words, write your cover letter/query and get it in the mail!

            

Now comes the hard part, waiting for a bite. This is the time to enjoy lounging on the river bank or trolling in the boat. Fishing isn’t about the bait. It’s about being outside and enjoying the scenery. Writing isn’t just about the story. It’s about the whole process, which includes getting ready for the next project.

There’s that nibble. But wait! If you get all excited and jerk the line too soon you’ll probably be disappointed because there won’t be a fish on the hook. Watch the bobber for serious movement but don’t do anything until the pole bends. Even then, be prepared. The hook may not be well set; you could still loose your fish.

                     

So, get out there. Bait your hooks and throw out your lines. If they get tangled, which can happen, whip out Alexander’s sword and chop them to bits. While you’re waiting for a nibble notice that you have moved forward, that you have another story out there or another one taking shape on the page. Notice you have another piece added to your puzzle. You might think about gluing your story together and hanging it on the wall, particularly if it’s accepted. If it keeps coming back to you, consider taking it apart and putting it back in its box for reassembly at a later date.

            

Keep yourself busy with the process of writing; try to enjoy all of its aspects. If you do, you won’t need to be patience. You’ll be so deeply involved with putting your next puzzle together you’ll hardly notice how time has flown by! Then, when that acceptance letter comes, or your story is finally published, it will take you by surprise.

When was the last time you were taken by surprise? Do you like surprises?