Writing: next steps and a look back

I've almost finished reading the draft of my sci-fi novel, "The Worlds". It's the book I'll be working on this year (throughout 2013, actually).

My reaction so far is that some sections of the book sing, while others seem like they were written by a (not very talented) high-schooler. The latter problem is something I'll handle in direct fashion: I'm going to rewrite huge sections of the book, from scratch. The day I finish reading the draft, I'll begin.

I've come up with a new way to begin the story. I think it will work well. The reason I'm heading toward a rewrite is that that there are basic elements missing from the draft. I didn't know enough about writing when I produced it four years ago. I've learned a lot since then and will put this knowledge to good use in the rewrite.

Writing Xmas Carol was the best experience of my life. I've never had so much fun -- and I was learning all the while, which is perhaps the best thing. My learning curve was so dramatic that by the time I finished writing the book, the beginning seemed amateurish. There was that much of a bump in my skills level. This led to over a year of editing, which I don't regret. The editing is where I really learned how to say things.

I cannot wait to apply what I've learned to "The Worlds". Much excitement ahead.

Be still, my heart!

The Benedict's Jesus.

I was extremely excited to see the news today:

VATICAN CITY (AP) — The Vatican says Pope Benedict XVI has completed the third installment of his planned trilogy on the life of Christ.

The publication date will be announced after "Jesus of Nazareth" is translated into various languages from the Benedict's original German.

It's a wonder they can announce something like that without using several exclamation marks. And not only will there be a new, exciting Jesus book to read, but I learned of a strange nuance to the art of speaking about a pope. Note the odd language up there: "from the Benedict's original German." 

You can't even say his name now without saying "the" before it? I guess it's kind of like calling Springsteen "the boss". Wow. I mean, I knew there were uppity ways of signing your name if you're a cardinal -- like "Timmy Cardinal Dolan" instead of Cardinal Timmy Dolan. But this one is new. I'm doubly excited!

I wonder what the Benedict is doing right now? No, wait. I'd better not think about that or I'll fall out of my all-but-constant state of sanctifying grace.