A Writer’s Post Conference Blues Brought On By The American Election

A Fabulous Conference

After attending the recent Surrey International Writers Conference, you wouldn’t think I’d come down with post conference blues. Not when it was such a fabulous event. It’s the first time I’d volunteered. Previously, I had attended as a full participant, but this year I thought I’d do my bit to help and at the same time get a taste of that wonderful writers’ environment. It’s a great conference with authors, agents and editors generously sharing their talents and experiences.

As a volunteer, I was fortunate enough to get in on four workshops: Voice and Point of View given by mystery author, Hallie Ephron, Underpainting by uber successful novelist, Diana Gabaldon ( I had the pleasure of introducing her), Character by former Green Beret and prolific indie author Bob Mayer, and flying by the seat of your pants writing by author Susanna Kearsley.

Also presenting at the conference was YA Author and friend, Shari Green, a writer in my writers’ critique group. She recently launched her new book, Root Beer Candy and Other Miracles, a middle grade book written in verse, a delightful and heartfelt story.

Post Conference Blues

Since all of the workshops were so fabulous and inspiring, how did I come down with a writer’s post conference blues? Well, for starters, the noise in the background since then has been overwhelming. The American election process has become unbelievably ugly. Distracting and depressing. I have to force myself to write rather than turn on the TV or chase down the latest news to find out what else has gone wrong.

A Canadian Viewpoint

I’m a Canadian so the American election doesn’t really affect me, does it? Well, we have relatives in America, and America is our neighbour. We even have some fellow Canadians volunteering in the election, which I didn’t know was even legal. So we, as Canadians, are praying that America gets a good president.  One for the people, by the people, and of the people.

We don’t want our relationship to change. Unless of course it was for the better. Most of us are hoping America doesn’t vote in a man who shoots first with his tongue and thinks later. We may be a different country but it’s one globe and what happens in America, the world’s most powerful nation, affects everyone worldwide.

A Disturbing Choice

It’s been disconcerting to read and hear all the lies, how easy it’s been for one candidate in particular to twist the truth. Every one of Hillary’s missteps has been blown sky high (sexism is sure playing its part) whereas Trump’s many liabilities have done little to dampen his appeal with his base.

Trump once famously said, “I can shoot somebody and not lose any voters.” The man is made of Teflon. He has insulted blacks, Muslims, the disabled, veterans, a gold star parent, women. He has bragged about his sexual predatory behaviour. He has stiffed employees, students with Trump University and cheated partners. He has been accused of rape. He has used charity money to polish his ego. He’s refused to show his taxes, which would reveal how much he pays, how much he gives to charity and whether he’s connected to Putin and Russia in his business dealings.

The Emperor Has No Clothes

Trump, the Emperor-in-waiting, has no clothes. He has never demonstrated in his 70 years that he cares one hoot for the common man. And yet, he is convincing millions of his supporters that he does. Former Mayor of NYC, Bloomberg, called Trump a “con man”. All you need to do is check Trump’s record, his history. All that gold isn’t that shiny.

Why Bother Giving My Opinion

Believe me, I’ve argued with myself about whether I should write about how I feel or not. It’s common knowledge that if you don’t want an argument, stay away from politics and religion. But if you see someone pulling the wool over someone else’s eyes, someone who’s vulnerable and can be taken advantage of too easily, would you keep quiet? The world has seen too many dictators, men who thought they could solve their country’s problems all by themselves, and instead, made a mess of things. You know who comes to mind. Hitler was one; Assad another. Trump has praised dictators, leaders who are bullies.

And in case you’re wondering, yes, I know all about the emails, Weiner’s laptop, Hillary’s speeches, and the scandal at the DNC. Hillary has made some mistakes, ones that others like Colin Powell made before her. The business with Bernie at the DNC was terrible. Politics is dirty, and some of those affected have paid a price. Thankfully, Hillary has now adopted two-thirds of Bernie’s platform and he is supporting her and voting for her. So that and her record speak volumes. Plus she is a mother and a grandmother and I trust she will do what she can to help all families because she knows what’s at stake.

I’ll be watching the election on Nov. 8th with my husband. I’ll be wishing the best for America and praying that Hillary gets in.

Meanwhile, Back At My Writing Desk

Meanwhile, I’m trying to push out the noise and get back to my writing. I’m escaping the election madness at times by reading a good novel.

I’m still trying to decide whether to go indie with my historical novel, based on my grandmother’s stories or find a publisher. I’m also working on a book of short stories and possibly a Y/A novel. I know, I know. I can’t stick to one genre. It’s just not me. 🙂

And I’m planning on sending Chapter Two of my inspirational book in progress, Along Came A Gardener to subscribers of Diana’s Book News this week.

So, if you haven’t joined up, do. Would love to send you a FREE copy of Chapter One and the next one as well. And any comments regarding any of the above are welcome.

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