2023 Ivy Writing Reflections
Hello!
It's your old friend Ivy here with some ramblings about my 2023.
This year, I practiced putting out longer projects, even though it's hard for me to let go of things. I worry about rereading my stories later and fretting over each mistake and poor choice. As with most of these kinds of worries, the truth is that it doesn't really matter. It’s much better to enjoy things while we can. Unfortunately, it often feels easier to worry about something theoretically within your control than a whole world of stuff beyond your control.
I've written less short fiction this year than I have in the past few years. Or at any rate, I've thrown out more of what I've written this year. I usually write my way into a story rather than plotting. This is fun for me, but sometimes it results in writing myself into a corner, and it’s better for me to throw those kinds of stories away to spare you the trouble of reading them! In 2024, I’d like to experiment more with plotting as a fun challenge, but I bet I’ll still start most of my stories without knowing where they’ll end. I’d also like to experiment with finding new mysteries to solve, and asking myself new questions.
Most of my short fiction that's been published this year was written last year or earlier. If you’d like, you can visit my website (www.ivyivyivyivy.com/stories). If you’re in the mood for an absurd mystery short story you can read in full online, you could try Pioneer John.
I have a short fiction chapbook out called Grime Time, which features some of my weird and meandering dream tales, the kind I like. No pressure to read if that’s not your thing!
On January 9th, my novella Star Shapes is set to be released (take a look). I’m sorry if I’ve pestered you with this news on my social media feeds. I am annoying myself, too. One good thing about promoting projects, though, is that sometimes it feels like playing a video game. A coin here, 10 points there, take the flag, cue the tinny victory music. But eventually, all games end.
I’m working on editing my collection Glass Stories and will let you know when it’s set for release. I’ve been writing for many years, and I’ve never released any projects like this before 2023, and they’re all coming out around the same time. Again, thank you for bearing with my updates and posts! I don’t want to be obsessed with my own projects forever. I just want to do my best, or to feel like I’m doing my best.
I’ve enjoyed reading so much work from the indie writing world this year. Thanks for all your words!
There’s no end of trouble, and so much of it feels overwhelming. Maybe before the year is out, I’ll get around to making a brief “2023 Trouble Reflections” post to commiserate with everyone and everything. Either way, take care of yourself!
And best wishes for the coming year!
Ivy
(Picture at top is an illuminated manuscript from Public Domain Review, found here.)