Don't Write A Novel
No, don't write
a novel dearest, don't do it
For sure as the sunrise you're going to rue it
The pleasure is fleeting, the work is a strain
And when it's all done, you must write it again.
I warn you, if you write a novel and finish
Don't celebrate yet, the work won't diminish
You've parcels to post to publishers, stamped for return
Which they do, with comments that give one heartburn
So if you wake in the night with such inspiration
Don't turn on the light, don't seek publication,
For some publisher might just take your work on,
Though he rates it low, more cygnet than swan,
The day comes when the post brings a parcel of proofs
Scrawled with red pen over gaffes gems and goofs
So you settle to work through those damn pages again
And though the love of your life has run off to Spain
You stick at it, and at last your books's at the launch
But don't expect a fat wallet and prosperous paunch
For authors don't just write books , sad to tell
They have to get out there and sell them as well.
But my warnings have fallen on deaf ears it?s plain
The poor idiot's upstairs and typing again
I?ve vowed not to do it, it's madness, but then
What an idea! Where's my notebook and pen?
Susan E. Down.