Meaning: Terry Brooks, an American writer best known for his epic fantasy series "The Sword of Shannara," made the statement, "Even after Sword was published, I was still only thinking about the next book, Elfstones." This quote provides insight into the mindset of an author who is deeply committed to their craft and constantly driven to create new and engaging stories for their readers.

When Brooks mentions "Sword," he is referring to the first book in his acclaimed Shannara series, "The Sword of Shannara." Published in 1977, it marked the beginning of a prolific and successful career in the fantasy genre. Despite the achievement of completing and publishing such a significant work, Brooks reveals that his focus immediately shifted to his next project, "Elfstones." This mindset reflects the dedication and passion that many authors bring to their writing, always looking ahead to the next story to be told.

The fact that Brooks was already thinking about the next book even after the publication of "Sword" speaks to the creative drive and ambition that fuel his work. It also underscores the demanding nature of the writing process, as authors often find themselves immersed in the world of their stories, always seeking to expand and explore new narrative territories.

Furthermore, this quote sheds light on the pressure that successful authors may feel to follow up a hit with an equally compelling and engaging sequel. In the case of Terry Brooks, "The Elfstones of Shannara" was indeed published as the second book in the series, demonstrating his ability to deliver on his creative vision and meet the expectations of his readers and publishers.

Brooks' dedication to his craft and his commitment to creating a rich and expansive fantasy world have endeared him to legions of fans. His ability to consistently produce captivating stories, such as "The Elfstones of Shannara" and numerous other novels set in the Shannara universe, speaks to his enduring creativity and the enduring appeal of his imaginative storytelling.

In conclusion, Terry Brooks' statement, "Even after Sword was published, I was still only thinking about the next book, Elfstones," encapsulates the relentless drive and creative energy of a dedicated author. It offers a glimpse into the mindset of a writer who is constantly pushing the boundaries of their imagination and striving to bring new and captivating stories to life. This quote serves as a testament to the unwavering commitment of authors like Brooks to their craft and the enduring power of storytelling to captivate and inspire audiences.