How to finish writing a book

Dear Nanay,

Like Mrs. Daroy who sent you a letter last week, I am also a writer. But unlike her, my book is not finished yet. I am still working on my manuscript and I will have to look for a publisher. I have read some of your previous columns about your advice on finding a publisher. I have kept copies of these columns so that in the future when I finish my book, I will have your guidance. I also remember your constant suggestion of “hard work” and “never giving up” when I have writer’s block and I do not seem to know what to write anymore. I am determined to finish this book!

My question to you is how do I know the book is finished? Every time I edit it I find myself changing something here or something there. So I get the feeling that I will never finish! — Mona

Dear Mona,

I cannot remember which of the numerous authors I have talked to said it, but one of them told me that sometimes, writers just need to “close the book.” At some point, you have to declare your book finished. He said that if you keep editing and editing, you may never be satisfied and you will never finish your book! So at some point, you just need to tell yourself “That is it … the book is finished.”

Of course, that is easier said than done. You have to have the discipline to tell yourself “Tama na.” One way to do it is to have someone else tell you to stop. If you have someone editing your book, maybe your editor can be the one to tell you that your manuscript is already good finished. Another way to do it is to give yourself a deadline. Give yourself an end date and when you reach that date, finished or not finished, you have to “pass your papers.”

Writing a book is not an easy task. And it will make the most confident person nervous that so many people will read your creation and possibly praise or criticize it. But keep working at it and I think one day you will just “know” when the book is finished and you can put down your pen or turn off your computer as the case may be!

Sincerely,

Nanay

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If there’s a will, there’s peace

DEAR NANAY,

I read your column the past weeks and saw the letter and comments about the last will and testament.

I just want to tell you and all your readers that from personal experience, everyone should die with a will. If there is any property to divide among the surviving relatives, you must prepare a will. I have seen too many families broken apart by brothers fighting against sisters, cousins fighting against aunts and uncles, family members who used to love each other bickering over the smallest amount of money. Indeed, money makes people do strange things. And it is because of this fact that dying with a will is even more imperative. So that the divisions are clear and the will of the person who dies is followed and done.

I also agree completely with your advice that you should consult a lawyer. Writing wills is a very technical process with many requirements and restrictions. To make sure that the will is valid and is not questioned, make sure you consult with a lawyer who has experience in doing wills. A little effort today could save your family from breaking apart later. — MC

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If you have a question, email us at asknanay@nationalbookstore.com.phor just drop your letter at drop boxes in all National Book Store branches nationwide.