Now that my book is “out in the wild”, I’m feeling rather vulnerable—my inner thoughts, my personality quirks, all laid bare for the world to see. I’d wager that’s what most writers feel when they publish their cherished masterpieces. And that’s probably what prevents some from ever publishing. It’s safer that way. But you see, writers have stories to tell, and those stories need an audience. We have a great need for sharing our stories, and that’s what makes it worth the risk.
What exactly is this risk, this feeling of vulnerability? Primarily it’s the fear that the reader won’t like story, will find fault with the plot, the characters. For a memoirist, there’s the additional worry that the reader won’t like YOU. Luckily, I tend to be an open book in my interactions with people, so I’m used to baring it all. Still, it’s always nice to be liked.
People assume that since I’m an extrovert, this is all easy for me. What they don’t understand is that each time I put myself out there, I get nervous. In the book it may seem like I’m effortlessly traveling around meeting people, but each time I met someone new, I was apprehensive. Still, the reward far outweighed the risk, so I just pushed ahead.
That’s the same for this book. Any risk of baring my soul to strangers is offset by the fact that I want to share this story. I want the world to know how amazing Pete’s campaign was, how we worked as a team, and why we’re ready to do it all again. And for that, I more than happy to make myself vulnerable.
Thank you again for taking me down the campaign trail! Your presentation is so warm I just want to sit down with you and share my own experiences.
Liz – Sorry for my huge delay in responding. I didn’t set up notifications properly. I’d love to sit down and chat someday!
Just got my copy in today’s mail. Looking forward to Pete’s next run. Can’t wait to see his children playing in the Oval Office.
Same here! Thank you for reading.
Sue Anne, no worries to be had here!! You did an exceptional job with humor, which drew the reader in, plot that was established straight away and all written in such a timely manner. I loved your ability to describe each incident to make the reader feel as we were right there with you! I haven’t gotten too far yet, but what I’ve had the privilege of reading thus far, as definitely made it hard for me to put the book down!!! I want to know who you meet next and where will it be, etc. You certainly keep the reader engaged and in suspense!!! And that’s the truth and I’m sticking to it!!!!
Thank you for those kind words, Cherril. I’m sorry I didn’t see your comment earlier. I didn’t have my notifications set properly.
Hello Sue Ann;
My name is Judy Gittelsohn. I am a friend of Jennifer Espinoza. She introduced me to your writing and your work. I hope to meet you one day. I am an artist – http://www.judyg.com and I just opened an art studio / gallery / cultural center – Studio Judy G / Why Watsonville in Watsonville, California. I sent you some information about the Electric Light Rail that I’m eager to help implement. You are invited to come to Watsonville and stay in our Artist Retreat – the Git Gat Gîte – as my guest.
Judy- I apologize for not seeing this comment earlier! It’s so nice! I enjoyed talking to you and will send an email soon.