September 2022
Well, I suppose it's time to venture out again. My dogs don't like it when I'm gone for more than a few hours, but nonetheless . . .
I've decided to do two conventions as 2022 winds to a close. Doing these will let me know if I'm up for more in 2023, or if it's time to just stay home and watch the world through a computer screen,
Coming up this weekend (Sept9-11) is Rose City Comic Con in Portland Oregon. I'll be signing at the Grim Oak booth, and connecting with long time writing friends like Brent Weeks and Terry Brooks. And I hope to see some familiar reader faces, but I'm hearing from a lot of them that they aren't heading back to cons yet.
Second convention is Dragonsteel Mini Con, Brandon Sanderson's Monday-Tuesday con in Provo Utah, November 14-15.
These two gatherings will be a test of my stamina, and will also let me know if any of my writing opinions and advice are relevant still.
No, that's not self pity. I 'broke in' to publications over fifty year ago, and traditional publishing is all I know. For many new writers, that's as irrelevant as reminding them to use white paper, a fresh typewriter ribbon, and be sure to include a stamped, self-addressed envelope (a SASE, we used to call them) with your submission.
So. We shall see.
I have one invitation to a gathering in Europe (not going to say which one yet) and how well I handle the demands of a three day convenion will let me know if I can confirm that.
I'm 70 now. I know that a lot of writers and readers don't slow down. But for me, if it comes to a choice between conventions and writing one more book, well the book will win out.
I've decided to do two conventions as 2022 winds to a close. Doing these will let me know if I'm up for more in 2023, or if it's time to just stay home and watch the world through a computer screen,
Coming up this weekend (Sept9-11) is Rose City Comic Con in Portland Oregon. I'll be signing at the Grim Oak booth, and connecting with long time writing friends like Brent Weeks and Terry Brooks. And I hope to see some familiar reader faces, but I'm hearing from a lot of them that they aren't heading back to cons yet.
Second convention is Dragonsteel Mini Con, Brandon Sanderson's Monday-Tuesday con in Provo Utah, November 14-15.
These two gatherings will be a test of my stamina, and will also let me know if any of my writing opinions and advice are relevant still.
No, that's not self pity. I 'broke in' to publications over fifty year ago, and traditional publishing is all I know. For many new writers, that's as irrelevant as reminding them to use white paper, a fresh typewriter ribbon, and be sure to include a stamped, self-addressed envelope (a SASE, we used to call them) with your submission.
So. We shall see.
I have one invitation to a gathering in Europe (not going to say which one yet) and how well I handle the demands of a three day convenion will let me know if I can confirm that.
I'm 70 now. I know that a lot of writers and readers don't slow down. But for me, if it comes to a choice between conventions and writing one more book, well the book will win out.
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As possibly one of the biggest fans of Realm of the Elderlings out here (seriously, it's borderline insane), I would love for you to stay home safe from germs, and write as much as you like. Admittedly part of this is due to living in New Zealand, and having 0% chance of making any con' you choose to go to. None of which detracts from the insights you have to offer other writers, readers, and publishers. While the system around publication, marketing, and purchasing of books continues to change at breakneck speed, the heart of a good book remains the writer's ability to put a compelling story down. That gift is one you've shared with us reliably, and I'm *certain* there are many who will be thrilled to hear you speak.
Travel safely. I hope you meet wonderful people, and feel the love and appreciation so many of us readers feel for you and your creations.
Thank you.
Definitely interested in a new book!!! That would be wonderful. You are my favourite fantasy writer of all time. 😊
Well, I learned there was a convention in Portland this weekend from this post. We just moved to Longview, WA (about an hour up I-5 from Vancouver) and I'm still figuring out the area. I hope I can make it by!
Yes yes i vote for the new book!!! RotE is my fav!!!
Hope you continue in good health for many years to come. Enjoy the journey.
To read that you are considering writing another book made my heart soar; and I think many others would agree. Take things at your own pace at the conventions you do attend. I am also an RA warrior and recognize that stamina often varies wildly from day to day. Fortunately most of the time nowadays we can at least pick our battles. It’s nice to know you have good company in your dog companions. Blessings…
Love to see a new book but for the time being i follow your recommendation, have that book from Jane in hardbound version waiting on the shelf. if you might appear on a convention in NL i would like to go, got enough time nowadays.....for more inspirational things then just work.
Please focus on taking care of your health! If you do write a book that'd be amazing! I wish you all the best
Yes, publishing has radically changed since you 'broke in', But the basic craft of writing and telling a great story hasn't. There are not many authors who have done, what, 16 installations of an interwoven, multi POV tapestry of a series, and none on the level of character, detail, and richness of culture that you have. The most common question may be about how to break in to publishing, because that's the time of greatest insecurity. But your command of craft is second to none, and you have plenty of expertise on that to share.
I really hope these conventions are a breeze so visiting Europe can happen!
Speaking as an attendee at Rose City Comic Con this weekend: Thank you very much for being there and lending your voice to those panels.Your comments during the Creative Worldbuilding in Fiction panel were some of the most memorable of the conference. In particular your advice to ignore that voice telling you to work on another project when one project gets hard. And your closing comments about growing and getting smarter were really inspiring.
I hope it doesn't end up being a choice between writing a book and heading out again in 2023!
I think you're great no matter what you do!
If someone isn't able to see and appreciate the wealth of knowledge you have to offer, that's their loss and says more about their character than your relevance. Your works are staples in the fantasy genre. It's wonderful seeing RotE gain so much traction recently through the online community and I hope it continues. It also just shows that you and your work are, in no way, irrelevant. I for one, am so bummed I'm not able to get to either of these conventions, as I would LOVE to hear whatever advice/ experience you have to share.
I just checked and it would take me around 30 hours to drive from London, Ontario to Provo, Utah, so unfortunately I don't see that happening. I hope your con experience this past weekend was a great one so that you decide to do more, and hopefully one closer to previously mentioned London, Ontario! But if that puts at risk the chance of you writing another book, then yes, please write - your novels are sublimely beautiful and like a breath of fresh air amongst a sea of self-published pollution.
Well...I would absolutely rather another book from you than to see you at a convention. But I know conventions can be fun!
We totally understand, and we hope it doesn't take that much of a toll on you. Conventions and tours must be exhausting. But please never think (not even for a minute) that you have nothing new to say about publishing or about books. You are amazing and one of the BEST authors in the world. If I could travel there, I would totally go ❤️
I saw you at the Rose comic con and it was great to see you there! Thank you for sharing your time and signing of your book.
Entirely off topic, but I had to get it off my chest: while everything about the world of the Farseers is pure fantasy and storytelling gold, the friendship/love/bond between Fitz and the Fool is the most beautiful thing I've ever come across in my reading life (going on half a century here..).Thank you!
As to the relevance of your advice in this modern day, I would rather listen to (read about) you talk about writing than hear a hundred podcasts from self-publishers who are churning out a book a month.
The depth and quality of your writing is why your books regularly reappear on the little table beside my comfy reading chair.