A writers environment

Its comforting to know that JK Rowling wrote Harry P, at the least the first book, from a coffee bar. Last night I once again attempted to take advantage of the 3 hour wait whilst my daughter trained (swimming). Not usually one for having difficulty with noise I think the comings and goings of people and the reflection of light from the door took its toll on my ability to concentrate. In the end I only managed 2 pages of dialogue and some notes.       

I'm quickly coming to realise that a writer needs discipline, a routine, perhaps even more rules to follow.

On BBC Radio 2 I heard Lynn Parsons interview the love him or hate him, Jeffrey Archer. Speaking about Kane and Abel he spoke about his writing schedule. I don't think I can match it with my responsibilities but here's what he said:

I hand write every word, I rise at 5.30 in the morning, I start at 6, 
I do 6 o'clock until 8, 10 o'clock until 12, 2 o'clock until 4, 6 o'clock
until 8, so 2 hour sections with 2 hour breaks. Stop at 8, have a
light supper bed at 9.30 or 10, up again at 5.30 (am)

What you cannot deny Archer is his incredible success... so, if it works for him..!? 

Comments

[James Stanbridge]

While you can't argue with Archer's success, you can't argue with his criminal record and attitude to veracity. The man is a proven lier and I would take his word as the fantasy he believes to be true!

So - yes, discipline and rigor are neccesary but not sufficient of themselves. Don't beat yourself up for not following this template.

[Author]

Thank you, I agree and I wont.