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The Writing Process
Posted by: cassie
So, as I sit here, trying to think of some brilliant advice to give (and not having much luck),
I can’t help but think of the fact that I probably haven’t written more than 500 words in the last three days, and about how that should really worry me more than does.
What I am coming to realize though is that you don’t have to be actually tapping out words on the keyboard or scribbling notes frantically in order to be taking part in the writing process. So even though I may have written very little, I have thought about my story a lot. About where it’s going, where it’s been, all the wonderful possibilities that it holds. I’ve also been talking about it to a couple different people, getting their feedback on different ideas that I have, which is also really helpful for the writing process, and while all this talking and thinking doesn’t help me get words on the page right this minute, I know that when I do get back into the swing of things (and I will very soon!), the words will flow a little easier because of that other side of the writing process that I’ve been indulging in.
So while all the writing is hugely important (I mean, we ARE writing 50K+ novels in a month here) taking the time out to think about where your story is going and how you are feeling about it is also an important and valid part of the writing process, so don’t feel guilty! Don’t berate yourself for not just getting on with getting those words out, because every now and then by keeping them trapped inside you for just a little bit longer they can end up coming out in amazing new formations you hadn’t previously imagined. Writing is a process, so enjoy it, all of it from the thinking to the writing. And remember, you are completely capable of writing this novel, and any time spent thinking about it, jotting down notes, talking about it or actually writing it is time well spent. You can do this, we can all do this.
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16 Jun 2007 22:07:30
Comments
On 17 Jun 2007 01:12:34 Andy Chilton said:
I agree. And the other thing you can do when not writing is talking to your friends about it and telling them what has just happened.
I have definitely made up new plot ideas and many other things mid-conversation when retelling my story. All good fodder for a few thousand words or more.
On 17 Jun 2007 10:56:20 Maggenpye said:
Yes, I do a lot of thinking about the scenes, when I'm not at the computer. I keep notebooks - everywhere. I don't discuss plot points with people unless I'm really unsure of a point. I have a tendency to play to the audience, so telling the story verbally can kill the buzz of writing it out. It's quicker! Instant feedback! But I agree completely with the 'keeping the words trapped' comment - that stirs them up a treat!
On 17 Jun 2007 17:57:25 Kerryn said:
I agree too! Having not written anything for almost three days I'm really excited to get going again! I'll probably do some tonight and I will not look at how far behind I am. :)