The unhappy announcement

I have to pass along some unhappy news, but before I do that, I have to tell a story. (For those of you who have been reading the blog for a while, or who have read the book for that matter, this behavior should not come as any particular surprise.)

A couple weeks ago, I was home for Christmas. While I was helping my Dad get ready for dinner, we talked about his Christmas letter. You know, the sort of thing I’m talking about: the yearly cute picture and Cliff Notes version of your family news.

My dad and I had talked about the letter before because this year’s was a lot harder to write. It’s been an odd year….

Wow. Look at that. “It’s been an odd year.” That, my friends, is what we call a classic Midwestern understatement.

Let me try again. This post is meant to pass along some important news, so I might as well speak plainly….

In some ways, this has been the best year of my life. The book that I’ve worked on for over fourteen years finally hit the shelves. I have met countless fans who have stunned me with their cleverness and kindness. I got to meet Tad Williams and Neil Gaiman and a host of other incredible authors. The book has gotten stunning reviews, and won awards, and they’re currently translating it into twenty foreign languages.

I would say that my dreams had come true, but honestly, I never had dreams this big.

But in other ways, this year has contained some of the worst things I’ve ever lived through. My mom died this February, about a month before the book came out. She was my biggest fan, and liked me back before anyone else had a reason to. She was so exited about the book….

Later, my dad discovered he had cancer too. Just in time for last year’s Christmas. His was, by comparison, a good cancer, and they removed his lung in January.

Yeah, as we say here in the Midwest, it’s been an odd year.

Anyway, because of these things, writing the Christmas letter was tricky. Still, my dad managed to get all the family news summed up in a page and a half. Included was the most recent news about Name of the Wind and information about the release date of book two….

So, as I was saying, my dad and I are making dinner, and he tells me that two days after he sent out the letter, friends started to stop by his office at work. “The publication date of book two, was that a typo?” They ask. “Or is that really when it’s coming out?”

My dad tells them that it’s not a typo. That is when book two is really coming out.

Telling the story in the kitchen, my dad mimics their posture when they hear the news: the disappointed slump to their shoulders. One person went beyond disappointment and seemed truly distressed when he heard the news “This is awful!” the guy said, standing in the doorway to my dad’s office. “I can’t tell my son about this, it’ll ruin his whole Christmas.”

The story was pretty funny the way my dad told it, but my stomach still twisted into a knot when I heard it. It confirmed what I already knew, that people were going to be really disappointed when they heard the news about book two. I’ve known for a while… but I’ve been putting off making the official post here. It’s easy to tell jokes and post up good news about awards. It’s hard to make an announcement that’s will make people unhappy.

But here it is: As of now, book two is scheduled for April of 2009.

I’m sorry. We were sure we could have book two out in a year, but it just wasn’t the case.

There are reasons. For those of you who are interested, I’ll cover them in the second half of this post, but the heart of the announcement is simply that: Book two has been delayed. It was unavoidable, and I am sorry.

The Reasons Behind the Delay
Or
Answers to Your Questions
Or
Why Pat is a Total Dick

“I thought you said that books two and three were done?”

I did. It wasn’t a lie.

In some ways all three books were done way back in 2000 when I managed to write the story all the way through to the end. But there’s a HUGE difference between a story that’s finished, and one that is polished, revised, and refined into something really, really good.

I tend to revise A LOT. Over the years these three books have been put through hundreds of revisions. That’s not an exaggeration. Some of them are small, just me tweaking words here and there to make things sound better.

Other revisions are huge and involve me moving chapters, removing scenes, and adding characters. On more than one occasion I have gone through this first book cut out over 10% of the total text. Then sometimes, in later revisions, I put some of it back. There’s a lot of trial and error. A good book doesn’t happen by accident.

(Warning: Minor spoiler alert for those of you who haven’t read Name of the Wind.)

For example. If you were to go back in time and read The Name of the Wind one major revision ago, you’d discover that there wasn’t any trip to Trebon, no draccus at all.

If you were to go back two major revisions, you would lose Auri and Devi. Their characters didn’t exist in that version of the book.

Three revisions? You wouldn’t have the scene where Kvothe and Elodin go to the asylum. Or the scene where Kvothe saves Fela from the fire in the Fishery. Or the scene where Bast talks to Chronicler at the very end of the book. I hadn’t written any of those them yet.

Think about that version of the book. Would you want to read that instead? I wouldn’t.

Were those early drafts finished? In some ways, yes. They had a beginning, a middle, and an ending. They probably could have been published, and people would have liked them fairly well, but they would not have been the best book possible, and that’s what I want to write for you.

Hell, just thinking about the book without Auri nearly breaks my heart.

So when I say that book two needs revisions, you have to trust me. What I have right now is good, but it’s not the best book possible. I want to give you a great book. A book that is as perfect as I can possibly make it. I want you to read it and laugh, and cry, and be horrified.

But that takes time….

“Fine, book two needs revisions. Why aren’t they already done, you dick?”

Two reasons.

1) Mental Exhaustion.

As I’ve already mentioned, we found out my mom had terminal cancer in September of last year. That meant that I had to do my final revisions on The Name of the Wind while coming to grips with that, working my day job, and driving down to Madison to spend as much time with her as I possibly could.

Needless to say, it wasn’t a lot of fun. Trying to re-write a scene so that it captures the delicate magic of budding young love when the main thing on your mind is your mom dying… it’s kinda rough.

What’s more, I didn’t tell my publisher about my mom, because everyone at DAW and Penguin was really excited about the book, and the last thing I wanted to do was take a big old shit on their enthusiasm. We were just getting to know each other professionally, and I didn’t want our first interaction to be me backing out of a bunch of commitments, no matter how good my excuse.

Plus, sometimes when authors go through heavy emotional stuff, they stop writing. Sometimes for years. I didn’t want the publisher to start worrying about that before my first book was even out.

But because I didn’t tell them, I had to cowboy up and do all the pre-publication promotional stuff. I went to a lunch with bookbuyers on the same day my mom had to go in for emergency thorastic surgery. (This was made easier by the fact that my mom told me she’d kick my ass if I didn’t go….)

Don’t get me wrong, it wasn’t all bad. In some ways it was nice to get away and be around people who didn’t know. It gave me a much needed vacation from that traumatic part of my life.

A few months later, when my dad found out he had cancer too, I finally fessed up to my publisher. Betsy was very supportive and cut me every piece of slack possible. However, at that point we were looking at unmovable production deadlines. Because of that, the ten days I had to look over the final page proofs for The Name of the Wind, were the same ten days my dad spent in the hospital after getting his lung removed. I remember red-penning corrections into the manuscript while he slept in the ICU, the tubes everywhere and a machine helping him breathe.

In the end, I did it. I managed to meet my deadlines and get the Name of the Wind out on time. But I felt like I’d done the writing equivalent of running in the game-winning touchdown on a broken leg. We won the game, but afterwards, I really didn’t feel that great…

I don’t know. It was like I’d pushed things too far and pulled a muscle in my brain. Following my dad’s surgery and my mom’s death, I didn’t even want to think about working on the next book. Not for months….

2) Unexpected busyness.

Just yesterday I read something that Charlie Stross wrote on a message board. He said, “The epiphenomena of a writing career can easily occupy about 30 hours a week, on average.”

This, is some capitol-T fucking Truth.

Before my book was published, I had no idea how much extra work was involved in being a published author. I’m not talking about the writing itself. I’m talking about doing interviews, going to conventions and booksignings, answering fanmail, corresponding with the editor and agents, looking for promotional blurbs from other authors, answering questions for my foreign translators….

That means when my book came out, I suddenly discovered I had brand-new 30 hour-a-week job. That, plus teaching at the University, plus, teaching fencing, plus working with the College Feminists as their adviser…. Assuming that I still wanted to sleep, eat, and occasionally kiss my girlfriend, there just weren’t enough hours in the day, and my writing time was slowly eaten away.

Also, the timeline for publishing a book is a lot tighter than I ever knew. It takes a lot of time to print, promote, and edit things. Because of that, for the book to come out in April of 2008, I actually would have had to have it pretty much finished this last August. Five months after my mom died. I tried, but I just couldn’t make it happen.

“So what are you doing to make sure that you don’t delay the book again, you dick?”

For starters, I’ve quit my day job. Starting this semester, I’m no longer teaching at the University. It was a hard decision to make. I’m giving up my health insurance, my office, and the ability to act as adviser to a lot of student groups that I really enjoy. I really love teaching, but it takes a lot of time and mental energy, so I’m leaving it behind to focus on my writing.

I’ve also trimmed a lot of the extracurricular things out of my life. I’ve given up the fencing class that I taught at the YMCA, and the College Feminists don’t hold their meetings at my house any more. I’ll miss them, as they’re some of the coolest people I know, but I need to buckle down and streamline my life.

Whew. Longest post ever.

In summary, I suck and I’m sorry.

That said, I’d rather disappoint you a little now by delaying things, than by crapping out some half-finished turd of a book and disappointing you a LOT in April.

Hope I didn’t retroactively ruin your Christmas….

pat

This entry was posted in book two, the craft of writingBy Pat256 Responses

100 Comments

  1. TK42ONE
    Posted January 17, 2008 at 6:01 PM | Permalink

    So, the news about the delay in book 2 has been floating around awhile, thus, no shocker there. I vaguely recall hearing about your Mom this year too. Terribly sad, but life is full of death and always at the worst time.Anyway, before I ramble too much let get to the heart of how I feel. I’m sorry about your Mom and your Dad. I’m lucky enough to have both my parents right now and I’m not sure what I’d do without them. I would have gone to those meetings too just because I know my Mom would come back and kick my ass or haunt me for not listening to her.The delays in printing book 2 are disappointing, but honestly, I have plenty I can read to fill in the gap. And when book 2 DOES arrive, I know I’ll be in for a treat. I think I’m one of the few that knew you meant you wrote the books but hadn’t proofed them yet.I, and others that want to grow up to be big, famous authors, see you as an idol of sorts. And while we want to believe it’s an easy life, when you really think about it, it’s a full time job. Maybe 30 hours a week is too low.But quitting your job as a teacher? Wow. I was stunned. i am stunned. Part of me is screaming for you to go back to teaching. All those young minds that need your help to understand life and all the trials that go along with it.But part of me says you need the time to focus on writing. Maybe you can get some breathing room to take a solid look at books 2 and 3. And take some time to work on something else. After all, 3 books isn’t going to leave me satisfied. I want more.And that’s where I am now. Sad and depressed about your parents and you leaving school. But happy that you’ll have more time to write, revise, write, revise.So there. Longest response yet.

  2. David
    Posted January 17, 2008 at 6:02 PM | Permalink

    I am sorry to hear about the push, but I would much rather read a finished book than one that was rushed. I guess I will just have to read Name of the Wind a few more times. Thanks for all the hard work you have put into making such great novels for me to read.

  3. Mary J.
    Posted January 17, 2008 at 6:03 PM | Permalink

    Oh no! You didn’t tell me about your dad. What a rough year… I am sure that your dad is proud of you and your mom is still supporting you just as enthusiastically from the afterlife of her choice.That is a big step with your day job. I think maybe you will be happier in the long run over that. I hope giving up the fencing won’t be stressful. That might have been a good frustration outlet! ;-) So happy to see that Sarah was not on the streamlining list! Also, you know that the April 2009 news has been you worst kept secret for a couple of months now, right?*Hug*

  4. Amras Elensar
    Posted January 17, 2008 at 6:08 PM | Permalink

    Your publisher let this slip some months ago, so it’s not like this is news to those who pay attention to these things. I was initially a little pissed about it, mainly ’cause it felt a little like cheating when one of the biggest selling arguments of tNotW was that there wouldn’t be Martinesque time delays between the books. But one year doesn’t constitute much of a delay, and I can certainly understand and sympathies for the reasons behind it. Hopefully you won’ need this bit of advice, but if you ever find yourself having to delay a book, you should really own up to it sooner rather than later. Nip the thing in the bud, if you catch my drift, no matter the reasons. We (i.e. the fans) shouldn’t have gotten this from your publisher.

  5. Josh Anderson
    Posted January 17, 2008 at 6:15 PM | Permalink

    You made the right choice. Take some extra time to produce something you can be completely proud of. Rushing a masterpiece is impossible…

  6. Anonymous
    Posted January 17, 2008 at 6:33 PM | Permalink

    Don’t beat you’reself up pat. Whatever makes the book better is good!

  7. Adam B. Shaeffer
    Posted January 17, 2008 at 6:33 PM | Permalink

    You most certainly do <>not<> suck

  8. Larry
    Posted January 17, 2008 at 6:43 PM | Permalink

    Sorry to hear that you’ve been through all that, Pat. I thought it was the balancing act of teaching (I’ve done it for 6 years and I know the deep commitments it takes to do that as well as you seemed to be doing it, based on your comments), but add your parents’ cancers…wow. You did the best you could and hey, those haters, well…they’ll just have to find a clue, no?But most of all, enjoy the longer breaks you’ll have and have fun with the text, OK? :D

  9. black Sunshine
    Posted January 17, 2008 at 6:45 PM | Permalink

    hoooly crap! i never realized you had so much on your plate. that’s amazing – you’re kicking ass in my book. april 2009 will come sooner than we realize. keep fighting the good fight!!!

  10. Dan
    Posted January 17, 2008 at 6:47 PM | Permalink

    Hi Pat,It’s ok. We’ll enjoy it more when we get it.Dan

  11. Kelly
    Posted January 17, 2008 at 7:01 PM | Permalink

    *hugs* Seriously, anyone angry at you for the delayed book after reading that post has <>serious<> priority issues!I’m very sorry for all the crap that you’ve been through in the past year. You, sir, are most certaintly NOT crap, however! Keep on chugging, and know you have a lot of fans out there to support you!

  12. Mainjari
    Posted January 17, 2008 at 7:02 PM | Permalink

    Dude. You are not a dick and you do not suck. When I find whatever unsightly creature that made you think that, I’m going to bitch slap them to the goddamn moon.

  13. Lynne
    Posted January 17, 2008 at 7:13 PM | Permalink

    Pat,We all do what we must, making the best choices that we can with the cards that are on the table.I for one, am proud of you. You have been put through the wringer, and you are still here to talk about it. More importantly, to *write* about it.I’m sorry about your dad. It’s hard. It sucks. As does losing your mom. Full stop.The book comes out when the book comes out. We’ll be here. We’ll wait. And it will be worth it.*archival hug*–should last a while.

  14. Jordan R
    Posted January 17, 2008 at 7:25 PM | Permalink

    This too shall pass…

  15. Anonymous
    Posted January 17, 2008 at 7:33 PM | Permalink

    Pat, you are the man. Hell, you are ten men.I’m looking forward to the second book, and will wait no matter how long it takes.And It’s <>awesome<> that the first one is doing so well that you can “quit your day job”.Keep it up.-a boston fan

  16. Bek
    Posted January 17, 2008 at 8:14 PM | Permalink

    Pat, It’s way more than I expected that you even let us know what was going on in your life. And that your second book will be out later than we thought. In reality, you could have just told us the date and that would have been that. Thanks for sharing your vulnerable side with us. I’m so sorry you had to go through it all. By the way, you’re the coolest “dick” I’ve ever had the pleasure to meet. =) Bekah

  17. Calenhíril
    Posted January 17, 2008 at 8:31 PM | Permalink

    You have a huge amount of courage, Pat. Thanks for being frank with us. I never knew you had so much to deal with in the past year. Odd indeed.I’m amazed that you can give up so much to do what you love, and do it well. It must have been hard. I don’t think there’s a single fan out there who wants to get a half-assed, rushed book rather than wait a little while. I’ve got plenty to read (and write) while I wait, and I’ll still be excited about Book 2 when the time comes around. And the fact that you can quit teaching and still be solvent…wow. Congrats.You’re even more impressive to this aspiring author now. Keep up the good work, and don’t be afraid to ask for more hugs.*hug*~jen

  18. stevenagy
    Posted January 17, 2008 at 8:44 PM | Permalink

    Family comes first, because family makes you complete, too. Just in a different way.

  19. Memphis for president
    Posted January 17, 2008 at 8:46 PM | Permalink

    The Fan club and I agreed on the following statements after thouroughly debating the subject matterwe agreed that:1 Pat does not suck. He rocks2 We love Pat (in a non-gay way)—Except for book administrator Linds, who does in fact make unidentified raspy sounds when saying Pats name, and I quote:‘ He’s a cute loveable witty bear raaw’ —3 wait for it.. that Pat is sagacious :o4 that sagacious is an awesome word5 That Pat wrote The Name Of The Wind and that Pat decides what happens to it.6 That Mainjari is right, but that instead of bitchslapping criticasters, we will attribute by sending our book president. His hellraising eloquentness will suffice (after all we are the bookclub…and our book president noodle-arms here aint helping at all)7 That there should be ‘Pattrick Rothfuss action figures’ (with interactional beard)8 That above all, reading creates a bond between writer and reader and that we choose to cherrish that bond which is so dear to us.Much love The Belgian book club (yes we have paper in Belgium)

  20. Steven Jackson
    Posted January 17, 2008 at 10:13 PM | Permalink

    Pat,I’m not upset (OK, just a little.) I’d much prefer to wait it out – I have no lack of other things to do anyhow – and get a book near to the quality of the first.That you quit teaching, and other things, to work on the book, is amazing. That’s a big undertaking – best of luck to you.We’re fantasy fans, and I’m a video game fan – we’re used to long delays and waits.Best,Steve

  21. logankstewart
    Posted January 17, 2008 at 10:14 PM | Permalink

    Pat,You gave up your job at the University? That is true dedication, man. There’s plenty o’ other books out there to fill our time until Day Two comes out. Thanks for being the creative genius that you are.

  22. Arevanye
    Posted January 17, 2008 at 10:41 PM | Permalink

    My goodness, that’s totally fine, Pat. I’d rather read a polished, well-crafted story any day instead of something that was rushed for production deadlines. We’ll just have to find other things to read in the meanwhile.You’ve been through so much this past year, hang in there! You do NOT suck!

  23. Anonymous
    Posted January 17, 2008 at 10:42 PM | Permalink

    alright, my comments on this particular post are as follows:be a dick if you want. fine, fine, all that, but i rather think you are a brave soul. considering i have a somewhat in-depth understanding of your loss, as i lost my adopted mother in feb. of 03, her father in oct. the same year, and my adopted brother feb the next year (i was the adopted child). given those things, i really have pride in probably my favorite author as of yet (you, sir, are that author), for not only finding the will to continue but give up some of what has been part of your daily life for a number of years. i think any one person with a brain and half a heart would completely agree with me when i say that it is too good for naysayers that you would do all of that just to provide us with what you feel is worthy of our particular tastes. i was looking forward to the book, and i randomly bitched about it when i brought up the fact it was only a year behind the first. its jumped to twice that, and i doubt i’ll be bitching anymore. ::smirks:: youre worth your own weight in gold, brother, and i wish you the best. by the way, your post was a bit of a reminder that im not the only one who understands that type of loss. i hope that you see this comment as a kindred flame, as well.the best to you and yours,Lord Bard, Minstrel of the Medieval Band of Moo

  24. unique_stephen
    Posted January 17, 2008 at 10:46 PM | Permalink

    Family comes first by about a parsec.I want to read the best book you can write, not the best book you can get out for xmass.I learnt me a new word today: epiphenomena

  25. Kalligenia
    Posted January 17, 2008 at 10:51 PM | Permalink

    You don’t suck. You just amazed all of us again with what an incredible individual you are again. You deserve all the grand things that come your way. We can wait for a masterpiece from Patrick Rothfuss.More hugs!

  26. King Sheep
    Posted January 17, 2008 at 10:59 PM | Permalink

    Fuck it. I love you anyway.

  27. Lucio Rodriguez
    Posted January 17, 2008 at 11:15 PM | Permalink

    No worries brother. I must admit though, I’m hella disappointed. I was looking forward to chilling out on my couch as the warm L.A. summer breeze coo’d through my window. Between Dodger games, the presidential election and the busy nightlife I will manage. I think.

  28. Notcreepyjess
    Posted January 17, 2008 at 11:50 PM | Permalink

    Pat, you do not suck, and the book will be great. NOTW without Auri? Or without that last scene with Chronicler and Bast? Or without the draccus for goodness sakes??!!! We can all wait. People who don’t understand about priorities and mental exhaustion…they are the jerks. Run away from such people. Do not linger.

  29. Anonymous
    Posted January 18, 2008 at 12:04 AM | Permalink

    Pat you don’t suck. It’s those cock suckers over at B&N with their website saying just 2 weeks ago that Wise Man’s Fear was available for pre-order and would be released 4-1-08. Bludgeon them Pat!!!! With a big fucking stick!!!!

  30. Kirstie
    Posted January 18, 2008 at 12:04 AM | Permalink

    Pat,This is my first post here since I just recently “discovered” you via Scalzi. I am tremendously enjoying your book which is no surprise since Scalzi says you rock.You most certainly are not a dick for letting the most important thing in your life have priority. Even if I did not know the circumstances I would never think any author is somehow less than a truly gifted individual based on time between books. Genius works in it’s own time.Thank you for sharing your world with us. Please don’t beat yourself up so much. Remember that the truly important things in your life should always have priority.Here’s hoping this year is much better than your last.*hug*-a new fan

  31. jrug
    Posted January 18, 2008 at 12:04 AM | Permalink

    Seriously – you don’t suck. It’s ok that <>Wise Man’s Fear<> isn’t coming out for another year (-ish). I’m sure most of your fans are well-adjusted, mature adults who will not become twitchy and spastic, threatening to beat random passersby with staplers if the book is not released <>immediately<>!Of course, I could be wrong.<>*twitch*<>I’m sad to hear you’re giving up teaching – while I’ve never been in your classroom, I’m guessing the world could use more teachers like you. With action figures.I’d buy a Pat Rothfuss action figure: now with kung-fu beard! A must-have for groupies everywhere!And, your martial-arts facial hair aside, it does sound like you could use a rest now and again. So, good luck.

  32. superwench83
    Posted January 18, 2008 at 12:07 AM | Permalink

    So I just finished reading your book at 3:30 this morning, and I got online just now hunting for information about when the next one would be out. As much as I’d love to have the next one in hand as soon as possible, I’d rather you take your time and do it right. I can’t imagine the book without Auri, either! Seriously, though, I’m a George RR Martin fan. I’m used to waiting. :)

  33. Josie
    Posted January 18, 2008 at 12:19 AM | Permalink

    I won’t lie and say that I’m not sad the book was delayed. However, I just can’t be mad at you. I know I could have never pulled through for us like you managed to, and that books take more than the initial sitting-and-writing-it-out to make them what we find on the shelves. I was surprised when I read all that you’ve given up to go forward with your writing career. I’m not trying to make your decisions for you, but don’t feel like you have to give up the things you love to please your fans. If they truly enjoy the book they won’t hate you or call you obscenities like you seem to think. We all love you Pat, and I’m sure that when we do get the book we will all be blown away by your awesome story-telling abilities.

  34. Captain Joe
    Posted January 18, 2008 at 1:12 AM | Permalink

    Hey, Pat,Aw, man – you’re not a dick! And you didn’t ruin the Christmas past or the Christmas to come. You’re not the grinch, and Jim Carrey can go climb a tree.I read <>The Name of the Wind<> to my fiancé just before Christmas as she was pretty sick – all night every night, and I lost my voice at about three a.m every morning. And out of the thousands of books lying around my place I could have read, I chose yours because it was the best, the smoothest, and the most kickass. It’s that and more because you took your time, as the dedication reads…My fiancé loved the book – and loved me all the more for it. You’re swelling hearts all over the world, dude, and making me look like a champ. Cheers.I, like anyone that enjoys a good book, do not feel any qualms or demurrals (I like that word <>demurrals<>) or suffer from any fits of blinding apocalyptic rage because of a delay – however big or small it proves to be. A hastily made birthday cake with watery icing may look good on the day, but it will always leave a bitter aftertaste in the back of the mouth and a sore memory of the baker.But it’s just like that hilarious argument a few posts ago – <>The Zombie Debate<> – fast sex/slow sex, both have their appeal. But we all know its better to take our time, don’t we? Take our time and enjoy the story, not worrying about getting to the end as quick as we can for a brief, all too brief, moment of gratification before its over. If I wanted a quick fix I’d find the nearest back-alley shop and by five paperbacks for a dollar. And then feel bad and unclean for days afterwards.Moral of the story – delayed gratification is always better, more satisfying. I welcome the delay for that reason – <>Name of the Wind<> will mature nicely over the next year, I’ll re-read it to death, and then bam – off we go again April 2009.All the best,~~JoeP.S: I second the Patrick Rothfuss action figure with interactive beard.

  35. Eric
    Posted January 18, 2008 at 1:21 AM | Permalink

    Like you said, it’s a disappointment that we’ll have to wait that long, but MAN, what a rough year. Anyone who actually thinks you’re any kind of dick over this is obviously one themself.I think it’s impressive that you got <>Name of the Wind<> out the door the way you did. The story is more than good enough – it will keep an extra year.Best wishes, and I am sorry to hear about your loss,Eric

  36. chrissykins
    Posted January 18, 2008 at 1:35 AM | Permalink

    I guess I didn’t realize that this wasn’t already announced…it seems like I already read somewhere that the book wouldn’t be out til 2009, so I’m not disappointed at all! Personal lives come first, family comes first, and I’m sure any real fans understand and accept that. And would rather have a great book later than an OK book fast–at least I know I would! I waited on the next book of King’s Dark Tower series for years until it was done, I’m waiting on Martin’s Ice and Fire series now…one year isn’t so long, trust me. :) I know the wait will be worth it. I am sad for your students, that they will be without such a great teacher now, but hopefully one day you will find a way to balance it all, and you can spend some time teaching again. Thanks for thinking of us fans and going to so much trouble to explain why the book is delayed. You definitely do NOT suck.

  37. Anthony Drake
    Posted January 18, 2008 at 1:40 AM | Permalink

    I’m cool with 09. A bit disappointed, but I can’t say I haven’t been expecting it since you promised me one-a-year. It’s all good. If your revisions are as important as you say, then I’m cool with it, because that means book 2 will kill as much ass as book 1. Anyway, good luck with your ’09 release.

  38. Karen Jackman
    Posted January 18, 2008 at 1:48 AM | Permalink

    How dare you say you suck! So what your book is delayed until 2009….yeah, disappointed, but I now have something to look forward to in 2009. I can wait. It is sad that you have had to give up teaching. But have you really? Every post you make here and on Facebook teaches us, your embarassingly rabid fans a lesson in life. So I say, you Pat, have amazing courage and you ARE a tremendous writer and still I believe one hell of a teacher!

  39. Derick - Boston
    Posted January 18, 2008 at 1:54 AM | Permalink

    I am really excited about the next book, but I can honestly say that I have plenty of other books (and grad school!)on my table to read before next year! As most of us have mentioned we are fantasy readers and we are used to long waits. I’m sure it will be worth it!

  40. EONsim
    Posted January 18, 2008 at 3:39 AM | Permalink

    Fair enough, hope this year goes better than the last.

  41. C.B.
    Posted January 18, 2008 at 3:40 AM | Permalink

    About this second book. Will there be cake?

  42. Wendy
    Posted January 18, 2008 at 4:16 AM | Permalink

    Hey, how ’bout, instead of “I suck”, you get yourself a nice flashy cape to wear to celebrate your ability to stay upright and show up, however marginally (though what you describe is not marginal at all) in about five bazillion things you had going on. You have been a teacher, a mentor, a fencer, a feminist, a supportive son, a boyfriend….and somehow managed to work on your book and your second, third, twenty-seventh full time job.Be kind to yourself. Any one of those things would have put most people face down in the mud. You had a lot of plates spinning there.I for one will be delighted to read and sell your book whenever it comes out. Because of the integrity of your storytelling in NOTW, I know books two and three will be well worth the wait. You are right to do what you did.Plus…absence makes the heart grow fonder…ain’t nothing wrong with a bit of anticipation.Be well, Pat. I’ll be waiting at a Borders in Santa Fe to crack open the laydown boxes of your book in April.Warmly, Wendy

  43. Michael
    Posted January 18, 2008 at 4:27 AM | Permalink

    If the book is gonna be better, then i will wait!

  44. Kim
    Posted January 18, 2008 at 4:47 AM | Permalink

    Well Pat, I can’t say I blame you. I was disappointed, but I’ve already preordered from Amazon. I’ll get the book no matter when it comes out. I’d really rather you take the time to get yourself and your life on track than worry about what thousands of faceless people might have to bitch about with a year of waiting. If you mentally break, we’re gonna be fucked sideways for many years if not forever, and a year isn’t such a long time in the grand scheme of things.Secondly, you deserve a huge hug and a nap. You sound like you’ve been completely stressed emotionally, professionally, and mentally. It’s sad that you’re giving up your day job, but it’s not like you couldn’t try and regain that part of your life at some later point if you really want it. And while you may not be an adviser in an official capacity for the College Feminists, I’m sure they love you and respect you enough to want your opinion and your ideas anyway.As for losing your perks and your health insurance, make sure you look both ways before crossing the road, and never get sick again. Kick in the germs in the face.

  45. Rachel
    Posted January 18, 2008 at 4:59 AM | Permalink

    Oh, Patrick. What a rollercoaster — no wonder it’s been rough wrangling your next book into the excellence you demand. Take care of yourself. (If you do come down with a cold or the flu, I highly recommend the elderberry extract, Sambucol.)And I, too, would buy a Patrick Rothfuss Action Figure, although i find the idea of an interactive beard somewhat intimidating.

  46. S.M.D.
    Posted January 18, 2008 at 5:10 AM | Permalink

    I came here from Pat’s Fantasy Hotlist and while I have not read your book, I have to say that for anyone giving you crap because the next book isn’t coming out this year and has to wait until next year, they need to either take a chillpill or maybe go through what you’re going through and come back and tell you that it was all a piece of cake. If they did say that I would be inclined to call them heartless and without souls, unless for some reason they have no friendly relations with their family.The point is, they should be glad it’s coming out in 2009 and not 2015. You can only do so much and you’re a human being. I fully and totally understand your exhaustion and your struggle. You have proven yourself to be a strong person simply by finishing that first book and doing all the things you were asked of by your publisher and newly created fans, all while very bad things were occurring.I wish you the best for this year and I hope you can get all the things done in a comfortable time frame so you don’t go crazy. 2008, hopefully, will be a much better year for you.Best wishes.

  47. Regann
    Posted January 18, 2008 at 5:58 AM | Permalink

    Dear PatThe news the book being delayed is a bit of a pang, but I understand. I do however, agree with you giving us your best.I’m a bit of a writer to-in a very unprofessional never written a sold plot sort of way- And I’ve had a tough year too, and I have been totally blocked. I can write but it’s nothing to be proud of. So, I can understand where your coming from. It’s hard to write your characters being happy, when all you want to do is make them feel as lousy as you. And when you try to make them happy, they just come off detached. Just one question.. Why on this earth did you post the cover on facebook?And P.S. Your not a dick. Your awesome.I will be patiently awaiting book 2, and I hope your spirits rise enough for you to write something you can be proud of.

  48. Tycho
    Posted January 18, 2008 at 6:02 AM | Permalink

    I too had to look up “epiphenomena.”

  49. Brian Igelchen
    Posted January 18, 2008 at 7:00 AM | Permalink

    Hell! I don’t get how you’re still walking about!Good job!!Will wait until 2009 of course!! :DHow does this affect sales and stuff btw? Since it was originally scheduled for this year.

  50. Anonymous
    Posted January 18, 2008 at 7:31 AM | Permalink

    Pat, thanks for explaining things. I bet your work week doubled for sure. I don’t teach as much as I did and I do miss the students some. But you’ll still be teaching, just different stuff and in new ways. And you won’t have to put up with the academic foolishness. :) I don’t miss THAT at all. A few hugs here. Don’t sit around the house (I know it’s cold and gnarly outside). Get OUT. Hold someone’s hand and let them hug you. Let things settle like an autumn leaf floating to the ground and let yourself be drawn into the flow. Let it fill you up. Get outside and breathe. When the sun finally comes out (I used to live in Michigan), lay out in it for a long time. Soak up life as best you can. Don’t worry. We’ll be there.Cheers, Sengei

  51. Miriam
    Posted January 18, 2008 at 3:47 PM | Permalink

    Stop with the self-flagellation. The book will be done when its done. And we’ll love it. And really, you haven’t keeled over so it’s just a matter of time until the other books come out. Time passes more quickly than we would probably like it to, so don’t worry. Do your thing, don’t get sick (since you don’t have insurance).Oh, and your socks should be coming in the mail soon. We just have to decide if we’re sending a new copy to sign or the one we’ve both read.

  52. SQT
    Posted January 18, 2008 at 4:08 PM | Permalink

    Heck, I have favorite authors who go 5 years between books. Two is nothing. That just means I have more time to re-read “Name of the Wind.”Sorry about your mom.

  53. Loth Quendi
    Posted January 18, 2008 at 5:17 PM | Permalink

    Wow, I’m sorry that you’ve had to give up so much, but I can understand that it’s worth it to follow your dream.As for the delay, it’s not so bad. This way, I can spend the month before the book comes out next year to reread the first book. It will be a fresh read. ^_^

  54. MatthewScottBaker
    Posted January 18, 2008 at 5:26 PM | Permalink

    Personally, Pat, I feel that anyone who thinks you’re a dick for the delay in publication of book 2 is a freaking idiot. It’s not like you’re holding book 2 in front of your fans’ faces, yelling “NYA NYA NYA!” If these people were TRUE fans, they would be patient and give you support, not heckle you and try to drag you through the mud.I’m only about halfway through The Name of the Wind, but you’ve already gotten me hooked as a fan. I love your writing-style and the story you’re weaving is excellent, truely beyond description. It’s original and that’s what the fantasy genre needs in our day and age. Keep up the great work…I think I speak for a lot of your fans when I say we’re here for you.

  55. Mary J.
    Posted January 18, 2008 at 5:31 PM | Permalink

    MatthewScottBaker:Pat didn’t exactly say “NYA NYA NYA!” but he did wave a memory stick at a handful of us once and claim that Books 2 & 3 WIPs were on it… ;-)>I explained to him the dangers of making a statement like that while being outnumbered by fantasy fans and counseled him to be more careful in the future. *grins*

  56. tmweyna
    Posted January 18, 2008 at 5:59 PM | Permalink

    I will be thrilled to read your next two books whenever they come out — and the next ones after that, too. Take the time and do it right — while maintaining your mental health!My condolences on your loss of your mother, and my best wishes for the quick and total recovery of your father. And please take care of yourself in the process.

  57. muneraven
    Posted January 18, 2008 at 6:01 PM | Permalink

    Oh stop. You don’t suck. Some people write really fast and some people write less fast. Some people can write through a personal tragedy and some people need to deal with the tragedy before they can write. It’s okay. I would rather you write well than write fast. And I would rather you BE well than go nuts from the pressure.Besides it is good for those of us who do not churn books out every other month to have someone like you to compare ourselves to. You and those literary writers who produce only two or three books in a lifetime. Write slower Marilynne Robinson! Don’t go and get all productive on me!Anyway, my point is, stop with the self flaggelation (unless, yanno, you are into that). We will still buy the book if we have to wait longer. You write fat books so you don’t have ADHD readers.BTW, I left a university job too, Patrick. My good teaching stuff and my good writing stuff seemed to come from the same place and, besides, I couldn’t deal with the bitter old farts in my English Dept any longer. And though I miss the teaching and the wonderful students, man I don’t miss anything else about that job.Be well. Enjoy the writing. I hope I see you at Wiscon; if I do this time I will say hi in person.

  58. Calibandar
    Posted January 18, 2008 at 6:22 PM | Permalink

    Sorry for your loss Pat, you’ve gone through a hard time. I hope for you you can keep your dad for a long time still, just as I hope I can keep my own parents for a long time as well.Eagerly anticipating Wise Man’s Fear. Isn’t there something coming out from you in 2008 though, a collaboration with Subpress?

  59. michelle23464
    Posted January 18, 2008 at 7:09 PM | Permalink

    Don’t worry- it’s disappointing, sure, but we’ll survive! We’re all Big Boys and Girls. It just gives us something to look forward to. It will be well worth the wait :)

  60. Gehennaheretic
    Posted January 18, 2008 at 7:59 PM | Permalink

    That’s OK Pat! If we can wait four years for GRRM to write his next book, we can certainly cut you a year or so, especially when you have such heavy reasons. You don’t suck, Pat, you’re made of awesome. If you weren’t, you wouldn’t be where you are now.

  61. Alison
    Posted January 18, 2008 at 8:12 PM | Permalink

    Anyone who complains about the delay for more than 5 seconds is not human enough to understand the books anyway.Therefore, I’m sorry, and I trust you, and you totally did not ruin my Christmas. I can’t wait to see how fabulous book 2 will be!..Just, keep updating the blog, ‘kay? That’s a sufficient amount of new Rothfuss for me.

  62. Alison
    Posted January 18, 2008 at 8:16 PM | Permalink

    Also, tWMF sounds like running smack into a closed glass door.

  63. Chris, The Book Swede
    Posted January 18, 2008 at 8:25 PM | Permalink

    A delay until 2009 isn’t that long, really, and with all the pressures and demands for your time that you’ve had, it’s quite understandable; and it’s brilliantly remarkable, that you’ve managed all that. I feel for you having to give up your job, though, as I can really imagine you being a great teacher, and getting a kick from it.It’s certainly been a bitter-sweet year for you. All the best, and I’m sorry for demanding a chunk of your time with our interview; but, if it makes up for it, a lot of people commented on how funny they found it, and how it cheered their day.Very best wishes,~ChrisThe Book Swede

  64. Llyralei
    Posted January 18, 2008 at 8:35 PM | Permalink

    Don’t worry, Pat. The only reason you’re a dick is because you waited this long to tell us. If I’d known that when I first saw the delay on Amazon, I would’ve almost been happy. xD;I’m so sorry you’ve had such a rough year. I can sort of sympathize; my mom died when I was young, and my grandparents [whom I live with] are in and out of the hospital, which is pretty scary, especially since I’m going to college… next year. Um, it’s kind of depressing to hear you stressing out so much over this since I really wish I could help somehow.But the delay isn’t really important because we’ll be getting the most spectacular book possible when we do get to read it. :] That’s all that matters. What really shocked me is the fact that you quit your teaching job… I’m stunned and, really, quite moved that you’d do that for your writing.I’d like you to know that you’re my absolute favourite author ever. :]Anyway, the main point of my comment is that, I’ll support you all the way, Pat. Keep your head up, and I hope things go well for you, in all things. :]Love ya,<3 Llyralei

  65. matthewscottbaker
    Posted January 18, 2008 at 9:11 PM | Permalink

    mary j:HAHA! That is too funny! I’m surprised Pat didn’t get mauled for that memory stick!:)

  66. Anonymous
    Posted January 19, 2008 at 1:36 AM | Permalink

    Isn’t GRRM closer to seven or eight or nine years between books? Really Pat, what is another year? I also need to get through grad school without any distractions such as a good book…;)Michelle from Hudson

  67. chris
    Posted January 19, 2008 at 1:47 AM | Permalink

    Pat,I am sorry to hear about your loss. My prayers are with you. Friends and family before work, always. You are without a doubt the most sincere, down to earth, cool author(and person in general) out there.Chris

  68. Dyn
    Posted January 19, 2008 at 7:42 AM | Permalink

    Hi there, I don’t know if you read the comments on your journal but well, what the heck, I just found you have a blog online so I might as well be a polite fan after reading something as deeply personal as your last post.Well, where should I begin? The name is Dyn, and I just finished reading ‘The Name of the Wind’. And I loved it. It was fantastic. It’s kind of a funny story really, I spotted it in a bookstore about two months ago. I have to be truthful in that I can be a very shallow judge of the appearance of a book on a shelf. All kinds of things attract me to a book and many turn me off from it. Like huge author names printed at the top, like where the title of the book should be. I don’t much like that, and it doesn’t usually make me interested in reading it.I saw the title of your story, ‘The Name of the Wind’, all brassy and interesting, with the sprouting ivy curling off the W. I figured only a book about magic could have ivy curling off a letter (if thats not ivy, don’t shoot me, im no herbologist). Anyway, rambling on… I didn’t buy it at first. I’d been burned a few times by books that looked good but then failed in their delivery. Either the pace was not to my liking or the author used too much fantastical jargon (which is fine for some). So I was a little hesitant. But funny thing is, every time I went out or went through a book store, there was your book, sitting with its good heavy rectangular shape (i must say i do like the weight of it, it carries a pleasant load in my hands) on the shelf, standing out with its dark cover. One day when I was really itching for a good read I just though… stuff it. I’ll get it. Maybe it’ll surprise me. And sure enough, I start reading it and pow. I’m sucked right in. I won’t go so far as to say your style is unique, I believe that would be more an insult than a compliment. I can tell you that you know stories, that much is obvious. I thought it was curious that the book had no author blurb other than to say it was your first novel. I decided not to read up on you online until once I’d finished reading. Either way, it was obvious to me when I started reading – this guy would certainly make it in the Nordic world. You have perfected this book in a way few authors bother to, especially the kind that tend to spout out a book every few months or so (I have no idea how any one can do that! I can barely finish any short story I attempt because I constantly critizise my own techinque.) When I finished The Name of the Wind I certainly had a tear in my eye. I enjoyed very much how flawed your hero is. And I use the term hero as it is required of any leading character. It left me wanting day two, as I’m sure was your intention. With all the hints of what is to come swirling inside my head, I found my self listing all the things that had been left uncompleted by the end of the book. So many little threads hanging loose in the wind when I turned that final page. I couldn’t feel disappointed because I knew there was more to come. I actually hesitated to even finish reading the book as I didn’t want it to end at all, I was enjoying this tale too much to bear closing the cover on it. But I have to thank you, you ended it in such a way the back cover had no meaning but to protect that final page from sandwich crumbs and coffee stains. Of course, with all that excitement and anticipation bubbling with in me, I had to discover when the sequal (or I should say the rest of the story) was going to be published. I’m sure I don’t need to tell you what I thought about the date I discovered since you cover your acknowledgement of it quiet well in your blog entry. I should say though… I wasn’t as disappointed as I thought I would be. I knew it would be a fair while away since it was a first book and it had only just come out when I brought it (well just come out in my country anyway). Being 23 sometimes a whole year away can seem like eons when waiting for something but I have to say, perhaps my anticipation can do with a bit of patience,

  69. Gareth
    Posted January 19, 2008 at 9:21 AM | Permalink

    Pat,Look mate, to be blunt, dont stress yourself so much. Youve had a damn hard year and the fact that we wax lyrical about the book is a good sign. We want the quality to be maintained. So we’d rather that extra time and attention was given to turn a good book great. Thats what you have to look at.One suggestion that I would perhaps have given would have been to see about getting a PT secretary to deal with a number of issues, ie kicking your ass when you need it, to answer everyday comms with perhaps a standardised email for each question and also to help organise things a bit better for you. Perhaps even asking at the Uni might find you the ideal candidate so you still get to keep some of your activities etc, and lets face it you wouldnt have to quit your Full time job. It might seem strange but a number of authors are starting to see the advantage of this method. You’d also keep your Medical benefits, job security etc. I’d also suggest a dictaphone to remind yourself about things.Having lost family to cancer I know how hard it is and whilst at times it seems a good idea to “cowboy up” as you said, its generally the worst thing that you can do, you need an outlet and from there you can get a bit of strength. Just dont worry about things so much, have fun and you know that anyone who rushes you to complete the tale isnt a true fan as theyre prepared to accept something that you feel isnt ready for the reader. Yeah we get impatient at 5 years between books but it hasnt hurt sales of other authors epics. LOLAll the best mate,G

  70. Daniel Abraham
    Posted January 19, 2008 at 6:19 PM | Permalink

    Don’t sweat it. You’re gonna be just fine, just don’t let it throw you. Do the work, make the next deadline, get the next project going. You’re off by a year because life intrudes and the process takes longer than it seems like it should. Anyone who doesn’t understand that . . . well, chances are they’ll complain bitterly about you while they stand in line to buy the second book. There’s worse.

  71. Frank
    Posted January 19, 2008 at 7:20 PM | Permalink

    Pat, why are you taking it out on you? You’ve had a really hard time and tremendous success simultaneously – who wouldn’t be torn apart under such pressure? And stepping into self-employment more than indicates your dedication. And remember: You still have your German-speaking fans waiting for the Klett-Cotta edition in fall.Cheers,Frankhttp://www.Phantastik-Couch.de

  72. Bibi
    Posted January 19, 2008 at 7:53 PM | Permalink

    First of all, you are NOT a dick. Specially not for having to deal with things you have no control over…As a fan, I’m counting down the days until book two, but it doesnt mean I am going to hunt you down if we don’t get the book NOW. I understand that you won’t be able to publish the book this year, and i think it’s a little unfair that we’ve made you feel like you have to justify your decision.Dont beat yourself up!We love you :)Plus, anything that makes the book better is not something to complain about.

  73. calico-reaction
    Posted January 19, 2008 at 10:11 PM | Permalink

    No, you are not a dick. I want to read the best book possible too, and I respect an author who wants to give me that rather than push through a less than perfect book to meet a deadline. So go you for doing this, even though it means a year delay, and kudos to your editor and publisher for understanding. –Shara

  74. The Writer
    Posted January 19, 2008 at 11:04 PM | Permalink

    Aww… we forgive you.Think about this first. Think The Dark Tower. Think A Song of Ice and Fire. Think *shudder* Wheel of Time. I mean, the author died! The nerve of him! (Only joking, of course. I’ll forgive you if you die– but we’d better see those manuscripts published!) A year’s delay is nothing. I’d wait another year after that if it’s as good as the first!

  75. Liz
    Posted January 19, 2008 at 11:52 PM | Permalink

    1) You don’t suck, just think about how long Bruce Coville’s taking to finish his unicorn thingy (I’ll give you a hint: it’s more than five years)2) Writing’s cool, but so are a lot of other things. Like teaching, and fencing, and feminising, and kissing… They’re all important in different ways, to different people. Your fans want you one place, your students another, and your girlfriend a third. I guess what I’m saying is that all that stuff is important, and don’t give up on three things to please one group, do what pleases you. If all those things drive you to write well, then that’s technically part of the job then, right?3) A year and half isn’t so long, there’s always tons of stuff to catch up on, like Jacqueline Carey’s doorstoppers and the matching set from George R. R. Martin. We’ll be busy enough.

  76. Michael Natale
    Posted January 20, 2008 at 3:11 AM | Permalink

    Don’t be so hard on yourself, sounds like things have been rough. Fans of your work will wait as long as need be. I think you ought to be applauded for wanting the book to be well written rather than just shoveling out something that fit someone else’s schedule.Hang in there, we’re right there with you.Michael

  77. Anonymous
    Posted January 20, 2008 at 3:14 AM | Permalink

    Patrick, you are entirely too hard on yourself. If your work is this good with the all the stress you’ve had, I am going to have read your next work a page at a time, then stop, because it will be so brilliant!Regarding health insurance, or lack thereof without employment, you might want to check out the Freelancers Union at the site below. It’s free to join, and the cost of insurance will depend on your state (and no, I don’t work for them, am just a fan and self-employed myself). http://www.freelancersunion.org/

  78. Anonymous
    Posted January 20, 2008 at 4:38 AM | Permalink

    Hello Pat. First of all i suck at writing things like this. I have a very large collection of fantasy books. I have one wall of books that are my favorites, and another wall that are just taking up space. I’m pretty good at recognizing talent by now. After i took a chance and bought your hardback i was so impressed, that i went out and bought a second copy of the book. It is now wrapped in plastic on the favorites wall, and i have my first copy to destroy from reading. I have done this with a few other authors, and so far they have all panned out. We’re talking about me being one of the lucky ones 8 years down the road to have a mint first edition. Take your time with the series. I am very disappointed with the push back of the book. I’ll make you a deal. You keep posting here regularly about everyday trivial stuff, and i’ll agree to patiently wait. I’ve had this deal with Mr. R.R. Martin for some time, and its working out very nice. Keep your head up, dont let the world get you down for to long, and remember if your head gets to high you’ll drown in the rain.

  79. mt.
    Posted January 20, 2008 at 9:47 AM | Permalink

    We’re disappointed, devastated – indubitably. But not at you. We’re disappointed, devastated – <>for<> and <>with<> you.You’ve done no wrong.

  80. AJMkarate717
    Posted January 21, 2008 at 1:57 AM | Permalink

    Pat, don’t sweat it. Delays happen all the time for various reasons. I remember you talking about this at the signing in Cambridge, and I feel the same way about the delay that I did then: if it’s necessary, then go for it! It’s okay. We’ll wait. If it’s anything like the latest console Zelda game and its delays, it’ll be kickass when it finally comes out. So go on and make book two the best freaking book ever. We’ll be there when it comes out, don’t worry! Take your time and do what you do best!Thanks for all your hard work!Sincerely,Allen MacLeod

  81. The Pick's of the Patch
    Posted January 21, 2008 at 3:24 AM | Permalink

    Hi Pat,Sorry to hear about the loss of your mom. I’ll keep you and your dad in my prayers. Focus your attention where you think best. There are plenty of books to read until your next one comes out.I’ll pick up your books whenever they are available.Take care,Robert(PS – Andrew and Rachel are my kids.)

  82. Jenna
    Posted January 21, 2008 at 6:06 AM | Permalink

    While it is disappointing that I can’t get my sweaty palms on more Rothfussy Kvothe goodness for another year… I honestly would rather have a book in my hands a while from now that will blow my mind in every way, than have a book RIGHT NOW that would make me mourn for the unfulfulled potential of The Name of the Wind.I have books to fill my life until The Wise Man’s Fear, and with such a thing to look forward to… well, it’s going to be a well-rewarded wait.Good luck, Pat. My heartfelt wishes.

  83. Anonymous
    Posted January 21, 2008 at 6:18 PM | Permalink

    As I read your blog, I thought to myself sarcastically, “Well, you should just quit your job and devote all your time to the second book.” And then you did it. Damn.All writers should “suck” as much as you. And the news was actually a pleasant surprise. I had seen the release date pushed back to 2009, and I was concerned it would be in the Fall. Hearing that it is in the Spring is good news.

  84. Tim
    Posted January 21, 2008 at 11:19 PM | Permalink

    I just wanted to thank you for going through all the crap necessary to publish your book while you were in that terrible situation. My mother was diagnosed with terminal liver cancer a few months ago. I recently had to put off admission into medical school to help out financially. I can’t even imagine what it was like trying to finish everything needed for the book’s release. That aside, I’m glad you were able to. It is a truly amazing book, and provided both a wonderful and necessary escape from reality. I wish you and your father the best, and will be looking forward to 2009 with great anticipation.

  85. Toomuchreading
    Posted January 22, 2008 at 12:47 AM | Permalink

    All I can say is this. Due to my reading too many books my family refuses to buy me books. I also don’t buy books for similar reasons.However, I checked the Name of the Wind out from the Library 8 times. I’ve bought the book.Just keep on writing.Thanks.

  86. Amanda
    Posted January 22, 2008 at 1:56 AM | Permalink

    *really huge hug*I’m sad you left UWSP. Won’t deny it. But it’s what’s best for you. I’m glad you’re finding a way to, you know, SURVIVE.Take care of yourself. Keep us posted, Pat.

  87. aweSAM
    Posted January 22, 2008 at 2:37 PM | Permalink

    I stopped reading halfway down, shoot me ;D. I am outrag– not really. When you said bad news I was expecting the apocalypse.. or.. they were closing Wendys.. or I had to diet or something. Don’t worry me like that.I had a reason for not reading the whole thing.. two possibly.Ok one was the fact that I am so damn kick ass I didn’t see the need.. but I will do that when I am done with my comment, two was I had to say that I hope the third book takes even longer to get out.There is nothing worse then a series of books/movies ending for me. I go through… (best blog tag ever) emo bullshit.. for weeks.So yes.. 2009 is nothing. Drag it out for my sake at least x]Peace<>The aweSAM<>

  88. aweSAM
    Posted January 22, 2008 at 3:03 PM | Permalink

    Ok, my awesome drove me to finish reading. You quit your day job… ignoring all humor that I can pull out of that line… You rock.I hope your ’08 has more rainbows, puppies, cake and all the other good stuff life has to offer.–can’t you at least keep the feminists? I think losing your awesome might cause serious medical problems. I’m no doctor, nor will I ever be one (obviously) but we are awesome fans, don’t give up too much on our account.Peace<>The aweSAM<><>-todays comment whore<>

  89. Liz B on FB
    Posted January 26, 2008 at 1:39 AM | Permalink

    Thank you. Thank you thank you thank you!!! It’s one thing to read the release date on Amazon.com and go “well, goddammit! *sigh* Ah well…But at least there’s a date!” It’s another thing entirely to hear the reason. You don’t actually owe your readers a reason for why a book is published on any particular date – and yet you’ve gone the extra mile to share that information. That means something. Thank you again.My heartfelt condolences for your loss and for cancer touching your life twice.

  90. plcoffey
    Posted January 26, 2008 at 3:52 PM | Permalink

    I wanted to leave a comment, but feel very redundant. Everyone has said what I wanted to say, so I’ll just repeat. Good things are worth waiting for, and we know it’ll be a good thing. I feel like my University could use more teachers like you and so I’m sorry you’re leaving. I’m very sorry to hear about your family’s hard times and will keep them in my thoughts. How about to make up for being horrible enough to have a normal life, you make a stop in Asheville, NC on your book tour in ’09.

  91. Lars
    Posted January 29, 2008 at 11:48 AM | Permalink

    I am very sory to hear about your mom – and glad to hear your dad made it. I lost my dad this christmas and now i know how that feels… Regarding the book: Take your time. Sure I wanna read the next book asap, but then again “good things are worth wating for” as a previous comment said. AND more important I think is, that it’s your job – and it’s a hard job i believe. So take care of your self, your family foremost, while you get the book(s) done…!Cheers and regards from far off Denmark :)

  92. Seraphim
    Posted January 30, 2008 at 3:53 PM | Permalink

    I’m grateful that you still have your dad. Lost mine in 95 and my mum this in 07. I’m looking forward to reading the book, but am worried that you seem to be giving up your life for a bunch of thankless readers who as soon as they finish the book you just published scream MORE MORE we want the NEXT ONE!You have a gift. But don’t let it consume your life.I’shalomSeraphim

  93. Anonymous
    Posted January 31, 2008 at 1:43 AM | Permalink

    I’m so sorry about your mom. I can’t imagine dealing with something like that and managing to still provide for others in the way of your teaching and writing. I want to say that everything will be ok, but I don’t know that. I do know that you opening up allowed me to be compassionate and mindful of someone other than myself for a moment. thank you. I look forward to the next edition in your series and hope the best for you, whatever that may be.

  94. Anonymous
    Posted February 3, 2008 at 6:25 PM | Permalink

    I realize I’m pretty late commenting on this entry, and I know everyone has already said how awesome you are and how COMPLETELY understandable it is that the book is delayed… however, I just wanted to add one thing. Two years in between books is really not that bad considering the caliber of these stories. Cheesy little 60K romances are expected to come out quicker, but your stories (aside from being the length of two books anyway, LOL) are so beautifully written and carefully crafted that I’m not surprised you would need more time. Personally, I’m fine with the wait. Far too many books disappoint these days, so I’ll wait as long as it takes for yours. I know when it hits the shelf, it’s going to rock, and that’s all I care about. Take care of yourself Pat.

  95. skeoke
    Posted February 6, 2008 at 8:30 PM | Permalink

    Wow. Ouch.I suppose I can accept those excuses. And I really did like the 1st book, and I appreciate all the time and effort that you put into making it as good as it is. So, waiting for the next book sounds like a good idea.(Just don’t go off the deep end like Janny Wurts did, sorry Ms. Wurts)*concern* Use caution when giving up the things in your life that you love. They are what make you a good (great) writer. */concern*Getting there is half the fun, so we get to have fun longer??AN-TI-CI-PA-A-TION ….I should probably stop holding my breath, though.

  96. LNJ
    Posted February 7, 2008 at 2:59 AM | Permalink

    I read this, wanted to reply immediately, waited, made dinner, ate chocolate (always clarifies my thoughts) and now will say what feels right.Years from now, when people are reading your books, no one will care when they were first published. You only get one chance to get it right. Take your time. We will wait. We should be courteous; not chastise you or make demands. You owe no explanations. Waiting with joy.LN

  97. Kit
    Posted February 10, 2008 at 11:53 AM | Permalink

    wow. so terribly sorry to have heard about this news so late (just now, in fact).. but there’s not much else i can say that other people haven’t said before, and i can just honestly say that, even if you publish the second book 5 or 10 years later, i’m totally with you all the way. i’m sure many fans would agree. i mean it’s your work of art, who are we to rush you? deal with it as you will. kvothe is immortal to me either way :)

  98. Joe
    Posted February 14, 2008 at 5:51 PM | Permalink

    Well, I just came by today after a long absence to find out when book two is coming out, and I am sad to hear that it has been delayed, but i am not surprised. Firstly, I think more writers need to take their time when they write, to make the best book possible. So you could say I am actually ecstatic that it is delayed. I feel your reasons are great for why you want and need to delay, and I am so sorry for the misfortune that hit you at such a time. I hope you are doing well. I like the indominable Douglas Adams (writer of the Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy) quote, “I love Deadlines. I love the sound they make as the woosh past.” He was actually so bad at meeting Deadlines that one of his publishers locked themselves in a room with Douglas Adams to make sure he finished the Novel. I loved all of his books, and I cannot wait to hear of more of the adventures of Kvothe. Keep up the good work, and we are all behind you.

  99. Sylia
    Posted February 16, 2008 at 5:33 AM | Permalink

    I haven’t been able to keep up with current news, and just found out about the status of the second book today. Although, I’m not that surprised to see that the date changed. I’ve seen the release date being April 2008 as well as April 2010 in different places. I don’t mind, because I can be patient. But I’m glad you were able to give yourself more time. There is a saying about “Time” that I love, though I can’t remember where I’ve heard it, “Time – It was, Time – Shall be, Waste it not, ‘Ere it waste thee.” I live with deadlines all around me (granted I bring a lot of it on myself), and sometimes I wish I can just stop the clock, if only to get a couple more hours of sleep. Plus, I too have lost a parent around a critically changing time in my life, and it hurts me to think about all the things I’m going to do that they will never get to see. But it comforts me to know that no matter what happens, I know they would be proud of me. Corny, but true. I’m sorry you had such a rough year despite everything. I’m sending best wishes your way for the year to come.

  100. Anonymous
    Posted March 7, 2008 at 6:18 PM | Permalink

    Wow, I’m glad I read this blog before sending details about the oddly high number of jarring – because everything else was <>so<> beautifully written – typos in the last 100 pages of the book. (Like, on p642, “jump all three in quick secession.”)Now I understand – you were just utterly exhausted! I can’t imagine what it must be like trying to proofread 650 pages of something you wrote; I thought the publishers took care of a lot of that crap. In that situation it’s already hard to see what’s really on the page, instead of what you know you meant to put there, even without such strong and difficult-to-handle emotions to deal with.Take your time with the next one until you feel it’s right!

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