The Duration of Book Writing: My Experience and Industry Insights

I started researching my second book in 1986, long before the advent of the fast internet and services like Google. My research consisted of letters to sources and trips to various local and national libraries. It took me until 2014 to start writing it, and it was published in 2018. From the original idea in 1986 to the publication in 2018, a total of 32 years had elapsed. Importantly, the research was and still is flawless.

How Long Is a Book Written?

When it comes to writing a book, the duration varies widely depending on various factors such as the genre, the author's experience, the complexity of the subject matter, and the amount of time the author can dedicate to writing. Some authors may complete a book in a few months, whereas others might take several years.

The Complexity of the Writing Process

The question of whether it is okay to write for more than two years is perfectly acceptable and not uncommon, especially for more complex works such as novels, non-fiction books, or academic texts. Many authors take their time to develop their ideas, conduct research, revise their drafts, and ensure that the final product meets their standards. The most important thing is to produce a book you feel proud of, regardless of the time it takes.

Industry Examples: Tolkien and Sanderson

Let's consider two bestselling authors with successful publications. J.R.R. Tolkien wrote The Lord of the Rings in 12 years, while Brandon Sanderson can typically write a novel in under a year, with some good years seeing as many as three releases. These examples demonstrate that the duration of writing can vary greatly depending on the author's process and project complexity.

Why Does the Duration Matter?

It is more important to consider the reason for the duration of writing. If you have no other job and writing is your sole income source, then the pressure to meet deadlines and avoid lost income is significant. However, if writing remains a hobby, then it makes sense to take things easy and work on novels and scenes during free time without rushing. With dedication and persistence, everything will eventually come together.

Conclusion

The duration it takes to write a book is a subjective matter. Authors should focus on producing high-quality work that they are proud of, without worrying excessively about the time it takes. Whether it takes months, years, or even decades, the key is to maintain quality and ensure the final product meets the author's standards.