

I was about to pass on this month’s Insecure Writer’s Support Group post due to fallout from my health issues – the MonSter, known medically as multiple sclerosis. However, the monthly question made me hesitate, so please bear with my confused thoughts.
Okay, here goes.
Well, first I must thank the Ninja Captain, Alex J. Cavanaugh for all he does – and thanks for creating the Insecure Writer’s Support Group without whom my writing would be non-existent…and March’s post might have been ‘farewell’.
Second, my thanks to all those whose encouraging comments ensure I scribble onwards.
Anyway, don’t forget to visit real writers via the IWSG site, and for better answers to this month’s challenging question.
Insecure Writer’s Support Group
Although the question is optional, I’m again tempted to answer.
July 7 question – What would make you quit writing?
Quit writing? Why?
Despite my health, my brain keeps delving and devising. I have enough unfinished projects and first drafts to keep my writing-self distracted for years. Like my alternative history surrounding the Viking Age, I’m watching TV shows – ‘The Last Kingdom’ and ‘Vikings’ – which keep me thinking ‘what if’.
And I’m listening to an excellent series of audiobooks – the Fiona Griffiths Welsh detective series by Harry Bingham – which ensures my Welsh detectives, Sparkle Anwyl and Kama Pillai keep getting attention.
However, my hands don’t always co-operate, nor does my voice – I’m fading slowly.
So, the answer may be ‘I’ll quit when I fail to get my jumbled thoughts out on paper/screen/whatever’. Or die with my notebook open.
Until then, I’ll keep scribbling.
Additional Thoughts
When devising the title of this post, I had the phrase ‘It’s better to burn out than to fade away’ in mind, and a scene from Highlander. While searching for a clip, I found the true origin as well, which was buried in my memory.
So, first here’s Neil Young with the original version – My My, Hey Hey (Out of the Blue)
And here’s Neil Young & Crazy Horse with the other track with that phrase. The two tracks bookended the same album. Anyway, here’s – Hey Hey, My My ( Into the Black ) live performance in 1991.
Plus, here’s the scene from Highlander, with the quote coming at the end.
The awesome co-hosts for the July 7 posting of the IWSG are Pat Garcia, Victoria Marie Lees, and Louise – Fundy Blue!
How can I be repetitive asking you to agree these guys are the best? Well, they are – especially as they all have concerns, fears, and insecurities. But they struggle on, so ticker-tape applause for all of them – plus toasts with the best brew available.
Purpose of IWSG: To share and encourage. Writers can express doubts and concerns without fear of appearing foolish or weak. Those who have been through the fire can offer assistance and guidance. It’s a safe haven for insecure writers of all kinds!
Every month, we announce a question that members can answer in their IWSG post. These questions may prompt you to share advice, insight, a personal experience or story. Include your answer to the question in your IWSG post or let it inspire your post if you are struggling with something to say.
Posting: The first Wednesday of every month is officially Insecure Writer’s Support Group day. Post your thoughts on your own blog. Talk about your doubts and the fears you you have conquered. Discuss your struggles and triumphs. Offer a word of encouragement for others who are struggling. Visit others in the group and connect with your fellow writer – aim for a dozen new people each time – and return comments. This group is all about connecting!
Let’s rock the neurotic writing world!
Our Twitter handle is @TheIWSG and hashtag is #IWSG.
Every month, we announce a question that members can answer in their IWSG post. These questions may prompt you to share advice, insight, a personal experience, or story. Include your answer to the question in your IWSG post or let it inspire your post if you are struggling with something.
For more on the IWSG monthly post and links to other participants visit:
https://www.insecurewriterssupportgroup.com/p/iwsg-sign-up.html
That’s the spirit.
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I keep trying. Thanks, Shaharee.
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I hope your struggles abate. How are you handling this heat dome? (Are you still in my area?)
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In Treasure Valley still. ok so far with heat as good AC – and cold is my big problem now. How are you?
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I really, really hope you find a way to triumph over the Monster. And my world would be diminished if you do fade away. Do NOT go gently dear friend.
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And you, Sue – may the MonSter be vanquished.
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Thank you for sharing, this is inspirational! Keep writing!!
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Write until you can write no more.
Highlander – great movie!
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Fun, best of the H. series, great music too. As writers we ‘want to live forever’.
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As writers, our words will live forever. I’m glad you persisted. May the Monster be quelled for good!
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You put your finger on it—as long as there are stories teeming in our heads, how can we quit?
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I’m so glad that you didn’t leave in March, Roland. I’ll say it again: You are a real writer! Having medical challenges doesn’t wipe out the fact that you wrote and published a great book. Please keep scribbling. Thanks for the Neil Young clips!
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“Or die with my notebook open” sounds like something Terry Pratchett said. I am so glad that stories are still flooding your thoughts, but sad that your body is causing a blockage in them getting out into the world.
You continue to provide such an inspiration to us all Roland.
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You are an inspiration, Roland. Hang in there.
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I’m thinking of you today, Roland, as I watch the eventing in the Olympics. The horses are magnificent creatures. I barely see the riders, for admiring the horses. I hope you’re doing well! I keep you in my prayers!
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