If we don't write with the intention to share, then why?
I think I'm among the minority when I say, I write for myself. I enjoy seeking other's opinions that I trust but honestly? I don't care about being published or normal accolades. I rarely enter contests unless a friend challenges me. I write because it makes me feel good. On the other issue, I stop editing and 'improving' a story when I'm happy with it. There will always be someone around that has an editorial suggestion or says you're doing it wrong - are you? Possibly but if you're happy with it and then you change it to please them - is that right? Not in my opinion. It becomes something less when you do that. It's not your story anymore.
For what it's worth ... I really enjoy your writing. I think you have a fresh, creative voice and I was pretty darn happy to see your blog pop up on my recently updated favorites.
I love this idea. And it's funny, because about three weeks ago I started up with a daily writing site called www.750words.com. The daily entries can be used or anything because they stay private; it's similar to an online journal with motivational fun things. But several days I've used my daily writing for scenes, or story ideas, and I've never really tried this before. What I thought would be redundant or stultifying has actually been freeing. And remarkably relaxing.
I heartily recommend the place. I'm also interested in the links you left for me--will check those out. Thanks!
I have been working my way back to writing as well. But, I'm working through the issues that have kept me from writing, first. I'm doing it through blogging and through free verse poetry. Might I suggest, instead of bashing at the words with a club (horrid, but wonderful image, btw), you create a separate book and instead of trying to write stand alone stories, etc., you use it to write to prompts daily (or whatever your schedule allows). That way it takes the pressure off, and you get the practice in. Just plop in an entry for say The Writers Cramp, or Daily Flash Fiction. Or do a poetry entry per day. Or vary it.
Then if a piece is, er, salvagable, you can pull it out of the entry and smooth it or craft it into a stand alone piece.
ha! oh, that's painful. it helps to know this kind of stuff happens to other people, too.
yes! please visit scribophile--i think you'd love it there, di. it's growing fast, but membership is still just around 2000 or so, i think . . . some amazing writers and people there. look for me if you visit! i'm there as "laurie paulsen."
Laurie, I should stop by scribophile..sounds interesting and open minded.
If it makes you feel a darn bit better about how ignorant most readers are let me share my experience.
I have a story written as a metaphor, my brother and his mistress is really his classic car. I can't tell you how many people read it and NEVER realize the mistress is really a classic car he restores instead of a living, breathing female.
Some people are actually mad when they write me, some are just confused and ramble on about the chosen wording.
Yes, I want to scream at them, but like you I don't. I simply point out the fact...my brother found a 2nd love of his life when he bought a car to restore, and he got so much more satisfaction from her than he did from his loveless marriage...done.
Some people actually notice and give the old: AHH_HAH response.
Di
Hi Laurie! I'm sorry to hear things are so tough for you right now. That sux you have to work so hard for so little (even though the bookstore job sounds cool). You know what I say? Write the next Great American Novel that's waiting inside of your talented, creative mind, and you'll be able to retire and enjoy your golden years when they come. You know I can say this because I've read your work- I believe in you! Keep your chin up and stay determined. Good luck with NaNo (I'll be there NaNo-ing along with you in November!)
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it helps to know this kind of stuff happens to other people, too. 
