The Creative Penn Podcast For Writers How Ordinary Drafts Become Extraordinary Books. Revisionaries With Kristopher Jansma
38 snips
Mar 24, 2025 Kristopher Jansma, an award-winning author known for his insightful work on literary fiction, discusses transforming rough drafts into polished novels. He emphasizes the dangers of comparing initial versions to finished masterpieces and dismantles myths around the concept of genius. The conversation also addresses the emotional toll of publishing and the importance of perseverance in overcoming creative barriers. Jansma shares personal anecdotes, reminding writers that struggles are a path to growth and success.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
Resist Comparing First Drafts to Final Products
- Avoid comparing your first drafts to finished books.
- Remember that published works are the result of extensive revision and editing.
Dismantling the Genius Myth
- The idea of a "genius writer" is a misconception.
- Great writers achieve their status through hard work, failures, and support systems, not just innate talent.
Fitzgerald's Unfinished Work
- F. Scott Fitzgerald's unfinished "The Love of the Last Tycoon" wasn't great.
- Even great writers produce subpar work, demonstrating that not everything a writer creates is a masterpiece.