What I realized writing novel

From this winter to this spring, I wrote a novel. Writing it was not that easy, but it was still a rich, meaningful time. I would like to share what I realized in writing the novel.

To write continuously, it is necessary to take care of one’s body. For some time, I woke up at 5 every morning, went to a cafe nearby by 7 a.m., and wrote for several hours. Sometimes it was difficult to write for a long time.

We write with all our hearts and with our whole bodies at the same time. Writing is both a mental and physical activity. I found that strengthening my body is very helpful, especially when writing a long story. If we do our best to take care of our bodies, it will be easier to accomplish our dreams.

During the writing process, I also became able to better understand other people. Writing a novel needs a lot of energy. Experiencing this fact, I came to know that so many people write with their whole beings.

Each year, a lot of people submit their manuscripts to literary contests. The judges’ words can greatly affect those who did their utmost to write their manuscripts. If I were in a position where I evaluate other people’s works, I would try to consider their efforts and to encourage those who don’t end up winning.

In addition, I realized that I could complete the story thanks to many people, including my good friend who inspired me by saying she was waiting for me to write a novel; my family who has supported me while I have written since I left my job; and the people who work at the cafes where I wrote.

When the weather was nice, I worked on a nearby hill too. I was grateful to the carpenters who made the benches where I could write under the trees. And thanks to the farmers who grew the rice, fruit and vegetables that I ate, I was able to get fresh energy every day. All these people and many more enabled me to finish the story. Without all of them, my novel could not exist.

To write, we need the help of numerous beings. We never write alone. We write with all of them. Whatever we do, we can’t do it all by ourselves. Only with the help and support of others can we achieve something. Both physically and psychologically, we depend on one another.

I asked myself, “What story would I write if I could write only this novel during the time remaining to me?” I wanted to create a story that can give readers strength and energy to live as themselves. I wrote the novel wishing for happiness for all people, especially for those who want to live as themselves, although it’s not easy.

May we be able to support one another in our journeys to be fully ourselves.