J.K. Rowling and George R. R. Martin are responsible for two of the biggest stories to hit our books and screens in the past 20 years; writing the Harry Potter and Games of Thrones series respectively.
Both were massive efforts of fiction: each series planned to have 7 books. What I realised recently was they faced similar pressures, but handled the execution and follow through differently.
Rowling had published her fourth book by the time the movie was released. She maintained a consistent publishing schedule—despite the pressure that comes with such a global franchise—and ensured the books stayed well ahead of the movie schedule.
Martin, on the other hand, released five books; the latest in 2011. And then he stopped. The Game of the Thrones TV series covered content in the first five books, and with Martin’s blessing, continued the story to its conclusion. Martin still hasn’t released the sixth book in the series.
No one comments on Rowling’s follow through, but they do remember Martin’s lack thereof. They’re helpful examples to remember when we’re in the middle of the work.