Recently, I was invited to a friend and former client’s house for a book group discussion. The book they want to discuss is my Paris historical novel, Chasing Sylvia Beach.
The invitation came as a welcome surprise. First, going to anyone’s place for a backyard party sounds great right about now! Then, it’s an incredible honor that people want to read and discuss a book I wrote. Nine years ago today I published this book. That seems like a long time ago, but this project continues to live beyond my initial effort.
This is what we hope for when we write a book or produce something for the world – that our works live beyond us. Books especially can have a long life, populating libraries and igniting book clubs to discuss its themes.
The main themes of Chasing Sylvia Beach touch on community, role models, and the power of books to change lives. Books as a way to lead conversations. We put our heart and soul onto the page and hope that others find value in reading and discussing our ideas.
In my writing workshops, I share how this potent link between values, themes, and stories can make writing easier. It’s impossible to write a book you care only superficially about; we must be deeply connected in order to write authentically and go the distance.
A book, course, business, or a body of work can express what’s true about you and your worldview. You may have a book or similar project stirring inside you. You may also wonder whether people will join you in caring about your subject matter. That’s not something we can control. Who knows where our projects will go or where they will lead us? What we can only show up to lead the conversation, first with ourselves and the blank page, and then with the world. Writing a book leaves a legacy – sharing your ideas, values, and passion for people to enjoy for years to come.
I can’t wait to talk about time travel, Paris, Sylvia Beach, and the power of books this weekend with a group of readers. These are subjects that I adore, and because I wrote a book revolving around these topics and themes, I get to participate in a discussion about them.
What conversations do you want to lead? What legacy will you leave? Don’t defer your dream of writing a book and sharing your ideas.
If you are harboring your ideas but don’t know where to start or how to write a book, please don’t wait. The rewards in the process and in the product are worth the challenges of writing a book. And guess what? I am here to help. A great jumpstart to writing a book is my most recent book, The Busy Woman’s Guide to Writing a World-Changing Book.
For customized writing support, consider one:one coaching. My coaching calendar has two open spots for this summer. I’m in my genius zone when helping smart, soulful people pull their ideas into shape. Details about my coaching packages are here.
What conversations are you leading with your creative work?
That is truly one of my favorite books.
That means a lot to me, Robin. I appreciate your comment!