Seven emotions writing a book creates

Writing a book is an emotional experience, what can you expect?

“The greater the artist, the greater the doubt. Perfect confidence is granted to the less talented as a consolation prize.”

― Robert Hughes

Writing in any form needs to resonate with a reader, whether it’s to educate, entertain or make them feel something. But what happens to the emotions of the person writing? Whether you’re a ghostwriter or an author, these are common feelings that crop up…

1)   Excitement

 Every book begins with a feeling of exhilaration, whether you’re the author or the ghostwriter. The author will probably have been mulling over their idea for years before taking action, whereas the ghost will see potential and fresh perspectives and want to bring their experiences to the project. Everybody loves a shiny new idea.  Harness this enthusiasm to brainstorm, research and bring all ideas to the table.

 2)   Fear of the unknown

Every book feels overwhelming to write when faced with a blank page. We all start with nothing and must organise thoughts and ideas into something magical.   Trial and error are inevitable at times, but often it’s only after conducting interviews and starting the first few pages that a narrative arc gradually becomes clear.  A sense of trepidation is a natural part of the process, so be prepared for this!

 3)   Frustration

 Life is messy and trying to make sense of our thoughts is messier still. Nothing is linear and simple and perfect so don’t expect a story to fall out of your mind onto the page like a ball of wool.  What needs to be taken out is as important as what stays in and both ghostwriter and author will only find out by collaborating. Communication is key in reducing the frustrating parts of the process. Both author and ghost should feel able to be completely honest ( and polite!) with each other.

 4)   Exhaustion

Writing a good book takes time, a lot of time. It’s hours and hours of talking, discussing, thinking, writing and endless editing. It’s the ghostwriter’s job to take on the challenge of trying to steer thoughts and ideas into something cohesive. The author might feel overwhelmed at times but it’s the ghostwriter’s job to bear the burden. No book is ever simple to write, and it’s tiring at times for both parties. But the hard work will pay off!

 5)   Nail biting suspense

Sending that first draft to an author is always a nerve-wracking moment for both parties. A ghost’s job is to capture an author’s voice alongside the essence of the story. The aim is to digest the story and reflect it back to the author in a way they’re comfortable and happy with. A page turner is the ultimate aim.

 6)Elation

There’s no better feeling than when words turn into a manuscript ready for that final edit.  Finishing a book is a massive achievement and a once in a life-time experience for many authors.  Often, it’s a dream that’s been years in the making. Nobody forgets the moment they got to hold their own book in their hand. Hold on to this moment because it’s the culmination of a lot of work.

 7) Hope

Hope is necessary at the start of every book idea. We consider writing a book because we have hope that others will find it interesting. During the process of writing we hope we can carry on until it’s finished. Every ghost hopes the author will love the creation.

In many ways the book is the ghostwriter’s baby too and they will wish it as much success as the author does. Every successful collaboration makes the job of ghostwriting worthwhile. Never give up hope either, because the unlikeliest books become runaway bestsellers!