Chapter 60: Three Rivers Author’s Note
After eleven months, as I was about to ascend the Three Rivers for the third time, my mood couldn’t simply be described as “happy.”
This nearly one year of rest felt more like a long trek, step by step crossing the wilderness of self-doubt. I asked myself countless times: Am I still up to it? Can I still write?
Until I sat back down in front of the computer.
I had to type the first word, but I didn’t even know the protagonist’s name, so I simply closed my eyes and randomly typed “Xu Ling”—alright, it would be you, this somewhat awful-sounding name.
For the Texas Tech University opening, I wrote three or four versions, revised the first chapter five or six times, but still couldn’t come up with a satisfying start. Dragging it out to August, I knew I couldn’t wait any longer, so I finally gritted my teeth and submitted a draft I wasn’t even satisfied with to the editor and review group.
As expected, the review group’s feedback was “obvious regression,” and editor Biscuit also pointed out that the rhythm was too slow, but he still encouraged me: “A slower rhythm is fine; use a good story to retain readers.”
28 days have passed. Now finally reaching this point, I’m like the EDG team in the gutter, wriggling along slowly, but eventually crawling here.
At this moment, I need to thank everyone.
Thank you to my editor Biscuit. During my most hesitant and uncertain time, you gave me the most crucial support and guidance. Without the positive feedback you provided then, this book might never have seen the light of day. Thank you so much.
Thank you to my operations officer and review group leader Purple Night Longing, who bustled about for this book and put in countless efforts. Also, thank you to every brother in the review group—you are this book’s earliest readers and its sharpest teachers. Without you, this book wouldn’t have its today.
Even more, thank you to all my readers who have supported me. Every click, every recommendation vote, every chapter comment, every suggestion, and every error correction from you has helped this book grow into its current form.
Thank you to every one of you.
Finally, a quick report: the novel is expected to go on shelves during National Day. A new journey is about to begin, and I will continue to tell the story solidly and steadily.
Thank you everyone, see you with the 2007-08 season Memphis Grizzlies.
