The Novel Writing Support Thread (New Format)

[SKnickers03]

Introduction
We all know writing can be an arduous task. I respect anyone who writes, but I admire even more those people crazy enough to consider writing as a career.

I've been working on my own manuscript for nearly four years (I'm actually working on it right now, and suddenly became inspired after taking a break to check out Smashboards), and I have to say, it doesn't get any easier after the 1st, 2nd, or 3rd year.

I don't know if anyone is trying their hand at becoming a novelist, but if anyone is--I understand how hard and...well...scary the entire process is. In a book I read called The Courage to Write by Ralph Keyes, he put it best when he said "If you're not scared, you're not writing." Sometimes you just want to call it quits, I can't count the number of times I've considered doing so.

The goal of this thread is simple: to give and receive encouragement for aspiring authors in every facet of the novel-writing process, from manuscript development to publication. Here writers or novelists can share their fears, doubts, and any other depressing experiences they encounter during the creative writing process and be supported by a great community. Also a forum in which writer's may extract creative ideas or request and share general advice to be used in their own work.

Lets make good use of this thread. Honestly, how awesome would it be if the Smashboards community was responsible for encouraging the next great classic in literature? Sure that sounds like a stretch, but you never know.

You're Not Alone: Common Fears Among Fellow SWF Writers

I have so many ideas for how to change the novel, but I am so depressed at my lack of ability to get a job that can support me, that by proxy, I cannot edit despite all the free time I have.

A novel is a horrible experience that I don't recommend for anyone. It brings out every writing insecurity you may have, and it will be in your head for a long period of time.

Writing on the side when you have a full time job and need to make rent at the end of the month is hard.

Trying to do it while going to school and taking care of family responsibilities might require that you be superhuman.

Or Jam.

I'm also in the process of writing a novel. I'm at about 67 pages and I simply cannot find it in me to continue. I'll open up word, look at what I've written, maybe tweak a few things, look at it all again, run my fingers through my hair, and then give up without writing anything new.

What's also scary is that as time goes on, I grow increasingly aware of how inadequate my previous writing has sometimes been. I just don't know anymore. I still want to finish it some day, but I can't seem to write on.

I always keep changing. I let movies and books influence what I'm in the mood for, and that definitely reflects in this first novel. Also, I constantly get bored with something and want something else new, so that tends to reflect as well.

i'm assuming i'll start writing my novel with energy and passion (something almost unknown in my current life). then i will reach a subtle halt due to lack of coordination. aside from the beginning and the overall plot, i have too much freedom to feel ecstatic about any single option or detail. lack of energy will naturally lead to conflicting concepts, causing more attention drawn to correcting, altering, and aligning everything rather than continuing to progress forward.

that's my excuse for being lazy.

Words of Wisdom: Sound Advice for Common Fears

It might help to have a backup plan , just in case you can't make a living on your writing. I don't know how many people are able to support themselves solely on their writing (except for the professionals who make the bestseller lists, of course). I know that technical writing is something that pays well, but the jobs available seem scarce (at least in this economic climate).

It might also help if you start early, before you have adult responsibilities. Take writing classes, join critique circles, and start submitting to publications.

The best analogy I use to describe the reality of the craft is being in a relationship. Being in a successful one takes a lot of work, dedication, and time. And on occassion, sometimes more than you'd like, you hit really bad times. But if you really want it to work, you'll keep putting in the necessary effort to keep things together. You'll always love writing, but you'll only get an idea of how much when you get to a point where the forces that be try to get you to hate it. Will you call it quits, or will you keep at it?

Blinking cursors are scary. They're demanding little things that, for some reason, make everything you write seem less amazing than you thought it would be. That is also normal. I don't think any writer can boast that they've managed to create something that perfectly transferred from their imagination to paper. Ideas never sound or seem as good when they're written down, it took me a long time to come to terms with that. So don't let it discourage you because there's always going to be something wrong, something that could've been done better--no one is a bigger critic than the writer that judges his or her own work.

As for you not writing at all--let me be forward. An author I really admire helped me out of a similar slump with the most obvious (albiet brash) observation of the craft: "Writers write; whereas, non-writers do not." If you want to be a writer you need to write. So simple, yet it's probably one of the more difficult hurdles to cross. You need to squash your reluctance (I say reluctance and not fears because fear, as I've said, will always be there) and write. A page a day, a paragraph a day, even sentence a day.

To get that under control, one thing to do is to write down new ideas that come to you but don't necessarily use all of them in your current work. Save some of them for future projects...
remember that you'll have other writing projects in the future. The first is usually not the last. Your skill will probably improve with time, and the things that you may not have gotten down on the first try will most likely be refined in later works.

Lets Get Writing: The 3 Lists

So I had this idea.

I'd like to compile three lists, stages if you will, on the original post.

The first being a list of people currently attempting to write a novel manuscript. Along with the dates they either began the project, or the day they decided to be put on the list (whichever they decide).

From there a person would then move onto the second list, which would consist of those who have completed a full-length manuscript and are beginning the steps to find representation and publication. Along with the dates of completion

Then the third and final list, the end-all-be-all of lists, the holy land for anyone who has ever posted on this thread. The names and novel titles of our published AUTHORS. These would be the people who overcame adversity and fought to have their dreams bound and printed. These would be the people to look up to--to learn from--and this is where anyone who risked being placed on the first list aims to be.

I see this as an opportunity to really motivate ourselves to reach our full potential. A way of formally (and publicly) declaring that you are in it for the long haul and will not stop until you reach that final stage. This will also make it easier for your fellow writers to know who needs their support the most.

A word of caution for those considering taking part in this program: YOUR NAME WILL NOT BE TAKEN OFF ONCE YOU ARE PLACED. AND THE DATES NOT ALTERED. In other words, this is for those who are serious about the craft and really need this. Our hope is that all those who enter the first stage eventually finish the course and are able to be honored for it. It may take years to see your name move through the levels, but if you truly want it, you will get there.

If you would like to be entered, please post the following:

1) PUT ME ON THE LIST
2) SWF Name, Real name (If you would like your real name posted)
3) List 1 or 2. (In case there are those with finished manuscripts already seeking publication)
4) Date you began the project OR the date you requested to be placed on the list

That's it. Remember, serious aspiring authors only. Good luck and happy writing!

The First Step: Those Writing a Manuscript
1) SKnickers03, 9-22-09

The Second Step: Completed Manuscript
(No SWF Writers Listed)

The Final Step: Introducing, Our Published SWF Writers
(No SWF Writers Listed)

 

[Crimson King]

I am on my first editing draft, and I have been at a wall with pushing myself. I have so many ideas for how to change the novel, but I am so depressed at my lack of ability to get a job that can support me, that by proxy, I cannot edit despite all the free time I have.

A novel is a horrible experience that I don't recommend for anyone. It brings out every writing insecurity you may have, and it will be in your head for a long period of time. My first draft took me a year to write, but this second draft is practically writing itself because I have thought it over so much.

That said, I don't think I can write any other form than novels.

 

[SKnickers03]

HA...That is exactly what I'm talking about. Keep at it. I've been at it for four years, man. The writing combined with the stress of supporting yourself--forget about it. How many pages was your first draft btw??

Hopefully there are other people on these boards going through the same love/hate battle with this time-consuming craft to really push a project like this.

 

[Crimson King]

143 pages. Towards the end I just went for finishing it over actually doing a good job since I didn't like the ending. My current goal is to hit Draft 2 by Labor Day weekend. At 20 pages a night, I should be able to get there without issue.

 

[El Nino]

"If your not scared, your not writing."

"You're."

I'm not scared. I'm just really, really angry. May I join this illustrious club?

At 20 pages a night, I should be able to get there without issue.

That's a high goal. I wouldn't be able to do it. Are you working full time?

 

[Jam Stunna]

I'm not scared. I'm just really, really angry. May I join this illustrious club?

I should sig this.

 

[Clownbot]

Two words.

Writers' Block.

I am not currently (nor do I intend to any time soon) write a lot, but it's something I find fun sometimes. Maybe I'll try to turn it into a career when I get older, but for the time being, I just do it as a method of blowing steam/exercising my creativity, and overall having a good time.

 

[SKnickers03]

"You're."

I'm not scared. I'm just really, really angry. May I join this illustrious club?



That's a high goal. I wouldn't be able to do it. Are you working full time?

no such thing as a perfect writer...but sure, as long as you have plenty to vent about.

 

[Fuelbi]

I havent had my hand at a book yet... except for a couple of short stories.But it is my dream to become as popular as writers like J.K. Rowling. But for now I am taking classes to help me with that career. And when I get to college Im going for whatever is the highest degree. But if I did have to rate myself as a writer Id have to say at least a 7 or 8/10... considering all the high scores on my essays but there always at least something Im always missing to include... so anyways yeah it is my dream becoming a great author and about the thing about being scared to write... I dont get scared. I actually enjoy doing whatever I have to write.

 

[Crimson King]

That's a high goal. I wouldn't be able to do it. Are you working full time?

I have so many ideas for how to change the novel, but I am so depressed at my lack of ability to get a job that can support me, that by proxy, I cannot edit despite all the free time I have.

-5% reading skills.

I am freelancing and making very little money off my writing, but nothing supportive. 20 pages a day isn't a high goal at all, seeing as I can knock out 10 pages in an hour, just the whole, emotional aspect of it.

 

[SKnickers03]

so anyways yeah it is my dream becoming a great author and about the thing about being scared to write... I dont get scared. I actually enjoy doing whatever I have to write.

Enjoy that fearlessness while you can. Once you get to a point where you'd like writing to sustain your financial life, I can almost guarantee you that the pressure will be immense. Suddenly writing becomes a business and not just a hobby for fun or a task for a letter grade. You'll look at your work and feel as if nothing is ever good enough. (Arguably, if any person looks at their work and says it's perfect, it puts into question how serious that person is about writing as a career.)

Not saying this to intimidate you, but if your ambition is to build yourself up to the caliber of someone like Rowling that kind of pressure is almost a given. Even she admitted how hard it was to crank out Harry Potter. Making peace with that now might be better early than later.

 

[Fuelbi]

Wow I didnt think it was that bad... usually when I have a really hard writing assignment I usually just think all the good things about it and I usually end up having fun but if it really is that hard then ****... whatever Im still going to want to do it to support my finances. And I heard that if you do what you enjoy in life then your gonna have no problem doing your work. But I guess Im gonna have to start facing facts sooner or later...

 

[El Nino]

-5% reading skills.

I am illiterate.

Actually, I asked because I know some people who work full time but still can't support themselves. Cost of living is high where I live, so hearing that someone puts in 40 hours a week but still isn't financially independent wouldn't surprise me.

20 pages a day isn't a high goal at all, seeing as I can knock out 10 pages in an hour, just the whole, emotional aspect of it.

That's impressive. On another writing forum, we were comparing how many words on average we put down in an hour. I wasn't the slowest, but I was on the lower end of the spectrum.

 

[Crimson King]

I basically set myself into "editing mode" by thinking of the things I want to change. Once I set that goal, it's just a matter of getting down to it.

 

[highfive]

This is a great idea. I want to write a novel or something among those lines someday. It really wouldn't hurt to have a few ideas pitched back to you by average citizens holding different viewpoints as well. It would also be a good tale in saying that you wrote a novel with the help of a video game community.

 

[SKnickers03]

Wow I didnt think it was that bad... usually when I have a really hard writing assignment I usually just think all the good things about it and I usually end up having fun but if it really is that hard then ****... whatever Im still going to want to do it to support my finances. And I heard that if you do what you enjoy in life then your gonna have no problem doing your work. But I guess Im gonna have to start facing facts sooner or later...

You're absolutely right. I can't think of a better way to live than writing for the rest of my life. And it certainly is something to enjoy, which is why people like us do it. I was, in no way, trying to dissuade you from continuing to write.

The best analogy I use to describe the reality of the craft is being in a relationship. Being in a successful one takes a lot of work, dedication, and time. And on occassion, sometimes more than you'd like, you hit really bad times. But if you really want it to work, you'll keep putting in the necessary effort to keep things together. You'll always love writing, but you'll only get an idea of how much when you get to a point where the forces that be try to get you to hate it. Will you call it quits, or will you keep at it?

You seem real young, so like I said earlier, enjoy writing for the sake of writing while you can. I've been writing all my life, but only in the past 3 or so years have I really started the race to earn my career as a writer. Until that happens for me, I'll have to work full-time (at a bookstore btw), and pay my dues to the man while a crank out a manuscript that all my hopes and dreams are riding on. Like I said--pressure--it's real and its a bi***.

 

[El Nino]

to the caliber of someone like Rowling

Rowling's prose (what little I've read of it) seems highly functional, though not particularly outstanding. With the right effort, training and practice, I think a lot of beginning writers can eventually work their way up to that level of competency. The real question is whether they'll be able to come up with an idea like hers, something with that kind of widespread appeal.

I can't think of a better way to live than writing for the rest of my life.

I can.

Curse you kids and your optimism.

The best analogy I use to describe the reality of the craft is being in a relationship.

Yes, the kind of relationship that leaves you in debt and probably infected with a lifelong venereal disease.

Im still going to want to do it to support my finances.

It might help to also have a backup plan though, just in case you can't make a living on your writing. I don't know how many people are able to support themselves solely on their writing (except for the professionals who make the bestseller lists, of course). I know that technical writing is something that pays well, but the jobs available seem scarce (at least in this economic climate).

It might also help if you start early, before you have adult responsibilities. Take writing classes, join critique circles, and start submitting to publications.

Writing on the side when you have a full time job and need to make rent at the end of the month is hard.

Trying to do it while going to school and taking care of family responsibilities might require that you be superhuman.

Or Jam.

 

[SKnickers03]

Rowling's prose (what little I've read of it) seems highly functional, though not particularly outstanding. With the right effort, training and practice, I think a lot of beginning writers can eventually work their way up to that level of competency.

We were talking about Rowling's success or status as a writer, not the level of her writing.

Curse you kids and your optimism.

Don't ever call me a kid again. And I'm not just saying that because I don't like being called one. I'm literally way passed that point in my life.

Yes, the kind of relationship that leaves you in debt and probably infected with a lifelong venereal disease.

That was funny, not gonna lie.

Writing on the side when you have a full time job and need to make rent at the end of the month is hard.

Trying to do it while going to school and taking care of family responsibilities might require that you be superhuman.

My life.

 

[El Nino]

Don't ever call me a kid again. And I'm not just saying that because I don't like being called one. I'm literally way passed that point in my life.

Are you old enough to get the senior's discount at Denny's?

My life.

Mine too.

 

[Jam Stunna]

I used to think of novel writing as the ultimate achievement; you weren't really a writer until you could slam down 300 pages on a desk and say, "This is mine." All of my short stories were practice, and I was just trying to get better until I could prove that I was a "real" writer.

After reading and writing many short stories, and reading a few novels (not as many as I should, admittedly), my mind has completely changed. I no longer look at the novel as the pinnacle. Of course, I realize that writing a good novel is far more difficult than writing a good short story, but I don't think the two are directly comparable, and you can't say that one is more valuable than the other. I look at it like this: writing a short story is like running a 100 meter dash, and writing a novel is like doing the decathlon. Same sport, but you would never say, "I wonder if Usain Bolt can beat [insert decathlon champion here] in a race."

So for now, I'm focused on honing my skills in the realm of short stories. I have rather lofty goals that I may or may not achieve, but I'm working towards them. I'm not looking to practice for my novel run later, and I think it's made my writing better just by making that semantic shift. I'm not even that interested in writing a novel anymore, but I won't say I never will. It looks pretty unlikely right now though.

 

[SKnickers03]

Are you old enough to get the senior's discount at Denny's?

Not there yet, but if I were, I'd probably take advantage at a place that's fancier like IHOP. Global cuisine, yah know?


And you're right, short stories and novels are two different beasts. Personally, I don't think I'm concise enough to write a short story, a good one at least.

In terms of difficulty, I don't know. Sure novels are longer, but that also gives you more time to recover from mistakes. Short stories are...well...short, forcing you to be meticulous with word choice and structure. Every sentence counts in a short story. You would think this applied to novels also, but the consistant consideration of it is nowhere near the degree used by short story writers.

In any case, good luck with your writing. Short or long, I suppose you're stuck in the same creative, obsessive, insecure he** as the rest of us. But we all love it, don't we?

 

[LordoftheMorning]

I'm also in the process of writing a novel. I'm at about 67 pages and I simply cannot find it in me to continue. I'll open up word, look at what I've written, maybe tweak a few things, look at it all again, run my fingers through my hair, and then give up without writing anything new.

What's also scary is that as time goes on, I grow increasingly aware of how inadequate my previous writing has sometimes been. I just don't know anymore. I still want to finish it some day, but I can't seem to write on.

 

[MidnightAsaph]

I like this thread.

Growing up, I was about drawing "stuff". Demons, wizards, soldiers, etc. Anything out of the ordinary and in "cool" books and movies. But at one point, I broke my pencil in half and chucked it at a wall. I ****ing hate drawing.

But I decided finally that I could just "write" up this fantasy world I had going in my head. You know, just for kicks.

This all happened about six to seven years ago. About four to five years ago, I decided that I wanted to write these stories and publish them in the future. I'm bent on selling these novels into a series of five books.

I'm a perfectionist and I always think I can do better, so I constantly restart the book over and over again (something also caused partly because I keep getting more ideas; they never stop popping up). I have a solid idea of what I'm doing for the first book, and in fact, I decided to cut the first book in half because I thought it would be too long. The farthest I've gone, in fact, was past the half mark on the first book, so technically, I've already got a draft finished.

Mind you, I wrote these from fifteen to seventeen years of age, so...they're garbage as far as the actual writing itself goes; pretty sure the story is kinda wack too. But looking at my newest stuff, I feel more confident. The story itself?

I couldn't have more confidence in it. I love it. And when I say confidence in it, I mean that I myself am proud of it. Other than that, I have no confidence whatsoever in regards to other people reading it in the future. I am hoping they will appreciate the emotion and feeling in it.

So, more or less, I'm one of those writers that wants it published, would enjoy becoming rich (and pursue that result), but in the end I just want those books in solid form, with a nice picture on the front, on my desk...and if possible I'd like well-made movies and music made for it... >.>;

I have more problems if you'd like me to share them with you guys.

 

[SKnickers03]

I'm also in the process of writing a novel. I'm at about 67 pages and I simply cannot find it in me to continue. I'll open up word, look at what I've written, maybe tweak a few things, look at it all again, run my fingers through my hair, and then give up without writing anything new.

What's also scary is that as time goes on, I grow increasingly aware of how inadequate my previous writing has sometimes been. I just don't know anymore. I still want to finish it some day, but I can't seem to write on.

Your fears are normal, in fact, they're so normal that they could easily be called common work hazards. Blinking cursors are scary. They're demanding little things that, for some reason, make everything you write seem less amazing than you thought it would be. That is also normal. I don't think any writer can boast that they've managed to create something that perfectly transferred from their imagination to paper. Ideas never sound or seem as good when they're written down, it took me a long time to come to terms with that. So don't let it discourage you because there's always going to be something wrong, something that could've been done better--no one is a bigger critic than the writer that judges his or her own work.

As for you not writing at all--let me be forward. An author I really admire helped me out of a similar slump with the most obvious (albiet brash) observation of the craft: "Writers write; whereas, non-writers do not." If you want to be a writer you need to write. So simple, yet it's probably one of the more difficult hurdles to cross. You need to squash your reluctance (I say reluctance and not fears because fear, as I've said, will always be there) and write. A page a day, a paragraph a day, even sentence a day.

I, myself, need to be forced to write in a timely fashion. So I hold a workshop every two weeks with a friend to read and work on anything I've done. Develop your own routine and get the ball rolling.

I like this thread.

Growing up, I was about drawing "stuff". Demons, wizards, soldiers, etc. Anything out of the ordinary and in "cool" books and movies. But at one point, I broke my pencil in half and chucked it at a wall. I ****ing hate drawing.

But I decided finally that I could just "write" up this fantasy world I had going in my head. You know, just for kicks.

This all happened about six to seven years ago. About four to five years ago, I decided that I wanted to write these stories and publish them in the future. I'm bent on selling these novels into a series of five books.

I'm a perfectionist and I always think I can do better, so I constantly restart the book over and over again (something also caused partly because I keep getting more ideas; they never stop popping up). I have a solid idea of what I'm doing for the first book, and in fact, I decided to cut the first book in half because I thought it would be too long. The farthest I've gone, in fact, was past the half mark on the first book, so technically, I've already got a draft finished.

Mind you, I wrote these from fifteen to seventeen years of age, so...they're garbage as far as the actual writing itself goes; pretty sure the story is kinda wack too. But looking at my newest stuff, I feel more confident. The story itself?

I couldn't have more confidence in it. I love it. And when I say confidence in it, I mean that I myself am proud of it. Other than that, I have no confidence whatsoever in regards to other people reading it in the future. I am hoping they will appreciate the emotion and feeling in it.

So, more or less, I'm one of those writers that wants it published, would enjoy becoming rich (and pursue that result), but in the end I just want those books in solid form, with a nice picture on the front, on my desk...and if possible I'd like well-made movies and music made for it... >.>;

I have more problems if you'd like me to share them with you guys.

Share as much as you can. Misery loves company. I read what some of you guys put up and it actually really helps to know I'm not the only one going through the same sh**. We're here to help each other out.

BTW, who do you see as the male/female lead in the movie?

 

[Fuelbi]

Well actually I do have a back up plan in case novel writing doesnt go off. I want to get a job on a newspaper. Somewhere big like the Miami Herald here in FL. They seem to get a large amount of money. Or maybe the new york times as well. Anyways one way or another I have high ambitions in the future.

 

[MidnightAsaph]

Share as much as you can. Misery loves company. I read what some of you guys put up and it actually really helps to know I'm not the only one going through the same sh**. We're here to help each other out.

BTW, who do you see as the male/female lead in the movie?

Well, it might give us more confidence, but there will always be milestones we have to cross.

I don't understand the question. >_< My main character is the lead in the movie.

Well, let's see, more problems.

I always keep changing. I let movies and books influence what I'm in the mood for, and that definitely reflects in this first novel. Also, I constantly get bored with something and want something else new, so that tends to reflect as well.

I've managed to sort out a system to keep me clear-headed and organized, but then my perfection sets in and I think my work is undeserving and needs to be revised. There's also the stringing together plot, cause and effect, and wondering if "this was really possible" and if "shouldn't there be more to my plot".

I think I've got a pretty sick twist at the end of the novels and a string of mysteries that do get solved, but for me, it's never enough, and it's hard to get past my need to go further.

Moreover, delving into my problems you find my horrible confidence in my writing skills. I've read before, and I always wonder how it is people read these books and think their good. From reading just about anything, I always think "this has no flow, it feels broken. How do people read this?" and that pushes me to correct every possible thing I can to make each word, line and passage translate well, including the pace of the chapters, arcs and novels as a whole. "Is it too early to introduce this story arc?" "Should this battle be here? It makes the climax look unclear."

Finally, and this is the worst of them all, I find myself in a disbelief at how some people read books and find entertainment. Now, let me explain. I find that I like reading, and I enjoy it, but what I don't understand is how people can truly experience fear and sadness when something goes bump in the night or a character dies (although I personally believe my ability to kill someone off is decent).

But I find myself reading frightening scenes and wondering, "I'm not screaming... How am I supposed to feel comfortable writing something that I wouldn't personally be afraid when reading?" If I don't believe that what I write is scary or affecting the reader, how am I ever going to stop revising it to the point of perfection that will never come?

Well, there ya have it. My many problems.

 

[★Malik★™]

i used to write stories when i was little. it was actually kind of fun.

i did have an idea of a piece.

A kid named (Insert name here) is now entering highschool. he likes to play basketball and is very good at it. also he likes to write music; raps about stuff. he joins the basketball team. he has a game and a scout is there. the scout asked him if he would like to play college ball, you know, when he's older. now about his rap game. he uploads his music on myspace. a record label notices him and his talent of music, messages him on myspace and ask him would he like to be on their label, you know, when he's older.

that was just an idea. i was writing it but i flunked. the title was called "Choice" btw.

 

[SKnickers03]

I don't understand the question. >_< My main character is the lead in the movie.

What actor or actress do you see playing the role?

As for everything else, all of it seems to center around your insecurity. Unfortunately, I don't think there's a cure for it when it comes to writing. You just have to keep writing no matter how horrible you think it is, otherwise, you ultimately defeat yourself. Coming to terms with imperfection is important because once an editor scrutinizes your work it'll only get harder.

i used to write stories when i was little. it was actually kind of fun.

i did have an idea of a piece.

A kid named (Insert name here) is now entering highschool. he likes to play basketball and is very good at it. also he likes to write music; raps about stuff. he joins the basketball team. he has a game and a scout is there. the scout asked him if he would like to play college ball, you know, when he's older. now about his rap game. he uploads his music on myspace. a record label notices him and his talent of music, messages him on myspace and ask him would he like to be on their label, you know, when he's older.

that was just an idea. i was writing it but i flunked. the title was called "Choice" btw.

Writing is fun and maybe one day you'll get back into it.

Do you rap? If you did and you could flesh out the story with a bit more conflict maybe you could write it as a hip-hop musical. No joke. I'd go see one.

 

[El Nino]

I always keep changing. I let movies and books influence what I'm in the mood for, and that definitely reflects in this first novel.

To get that under control, one thing to do is to write down new ideas that come to you but don't necessarily use all of them in your current work. Save some of them for future projects.

my perfection sets in and I think my work is undeserving and needs to be revised.

Again, it may help to remember that you'll have other writing projects in the future. The first is usually not the last. Your skill will probably improve with time, and the things that you may not have gotten down on the first try will most likely be refined in later works.

 

[MidnightAsaph]

What actor or actress do you see playing the role?

As for everything else, all of it seems to center around your insecurity. Unfortunately, I don't think there's a cure for it when it comes to writing. You just have to keep writing no matter how horrible you think it is, otherwise, you ultimately defeat yourself. Coming to terms with imperfection is important because once an editor scrutinizes your work it'll only get harder.

Oh... No one. Random day dreams of this stuff, and I've never used other actors, save for a few, but I always thought that if they were in a movie, they'd be new fleshed out actors.

Again, it may help to remember that you'll have other writing projects in the future. The first is usually not the last. Your skill will probably improve with time, and the things that you may not have gotten down on the first try will most likely be refined in later works.

That's a good way of thinking. It's just, my ideas are more specific. I've found that my biggest problem is that I defeat a lot of the opportunities for loose ends. I always have to go and get too far into it. Meaning, if I get a new idea and want to use it, it doesn't fit. So, I definitely have to be more vague with my writing. I've just always thought that I would have an even greater series if everything was so perfect that "the secret to that mystery fit to perfectly it had to have been planned beforehand."

And I know I can't do that. It's just one of those things I have to get over.

 

[★Malik★™]

What actor or actress do you see playing the role?

As for everything else, all of it seems to center around your insecurity. Unfortunately, I don't think there's a cure for it when it comes to writing. You just have to keep writing no matter how horrible you think it is, otherwise, you ultimately defeat yourself. Coming to terms with imperfection is important because once an editor scrutinizes your work it'll only get harder.



Writing is fun and maybe one day you'll get back into it.

Do you rap? If you did and you could flesh out the story with a bit more conflict maybe you could write it as a hip-hop musical. No joke. I'd go see one.

naw, i don't rap. i make instrumentals. i occasionally hum a rap to the beats i make, but that really isn't rappin'. i used to rap, like 2 years ago though.

 

[highfive]

I won't let this thread die! It's a great idea and needs to be put through.

 

[SKnickers03]

I won't let this thread die! It's a great idea and needs to be put through.

lol...Sorry its been awhile but I've been a bit preoccupied.

Does anyone have the same problem I have? The whole, "I want to be a writer, but for some reason I don't write," thing? It's true that every person inevitably develops their own writing habits. Some people can write every day, rain or shine, while others--such as myself--are too distracted or intimidated to write consistantly. What I discovered is that I need to be forced to write on a regular basis with the use of deadlines. Kind of like homework, I guess. Thus, I have a workshop every two weeks with people I trust to go over my progress. (I generally try to have a new full chapter done every two or three weeks as a minimum.) Since I started doing this, I have not only gotten more comfortable with writing regularly but I am months ahead of where I would be without this personal program.

I have a workshop tomorrow to look over new content in my manuscript so I'm actually getting some writing done right now. I just spent 15 minutes on one sentence...totally worth it.

Just thought I'd share that, just in case anyone was in the same boat as me. This worked for me and I am dreadfully lazy. So give it try and I'm sure that the pages will begin to fly by.

Any questions just ask. That goes for anyone. I'll try to check this out more often, and if I feel like my input could benefit someone, I'll offer it.

 

[Eor]

I support this thread

I like coming up with ideas, however I'm honestly not a big fan of writing. I don't think I'm a bad writer. I'm not a great one, but I'd say I'm alright. However, I rarely actually write stuff. I normally just come up with plots, and my plots are usually always novel length or series of novel lengths.

For example, I was actually just thinking of a series of novels I'd like to write. Soft novels, nothing heavy. They'd be based on those 1930 adventure films, like King Kong and 1000 leagues under the sea, the ones based on the western fascination of the "uncivilized" world and how mystical it is, as well as Indiana Jones. The idea would be set in an alternative history where pretty much Europe was never fully christianized until recently, so "pagan" religions are still around, and it'd be about a WW1 veteran whose pagan that gets hired by a National Geographic type magazine to travel around the world and investigate/write about different cultures. The world would, though, be sort of "fantasy" like. Not real fantasy, but more like King Kong/cryptozoology type fantasy. For example, my idea for a first novel would be him in US occupied Haiti, writing about a series of strange disappearances, that'd tie into Haitian Voduo where there's a Bokor that is turning rural villagers into zombis in an attempt to fight off the United States occupation. I was thinking another one would be the cliche him in India helping out against a Death Cult, or one where he's in Nevada or something and he's trying to help out Native Americans stop a railroad company from destroying some shrine or something like that. Or one where he's in Tibet and yetis. Things like that.

 

[SKnickers03]

Those honestly sound like pretty great ideas, especially that first one. I would totally delve into a series like that. I'm guessing that you have a profound interest in history. I suppose the biggest hurdle would depend on how historically accurate you hope to be. If authenticity was important to you, stuff like that could require a lot of research. But honestly, if you did the homework and executed this right, I could definately see something special with what you have so far.

How motivated would you say you are to actually sit down and crank these ideas out?

BTW. As a mod, could you rename the title of this thread to just NOVEL WRITING SUPPORT THREAD? I don't know the ins and outs of this biz, but that'd be great.

 

[LumpyCPU...]

i'm assuming i'll start writing my novel with energy and passion (something almost unknown in my current life). then i will reach a subtle halt due to lack of coordination. aside from the beginning and the overall plot, i have too much freedom to feel ecstatic about any single option or detail. lack of energy will naturally lead to conflicting concepts, causing more attention drawn to correcting, altering, and aligning everything rather than continuing to progress forward.

that's my excuse for being lazy.

 

[Jam Stunna]

BTW. As a mod, could you rename the title of this thread to just NOVEL WRITING SUPPORT THREAD? I don't know the ins and outs of this biz, but that'd be great.

You can change it yourself by going to edit the OP, clicking on "Go Advanced" and then changing the title.

I'll add something more substantial later.

 

[SKnickers03]

i'm assuming i'll start writing my novel with energy and passion (something almost unknown in my current life). then i will reach a subtle halt due to lack of coordination. aside from the beginning and the overall plot, i have too much freedom to feel ecstatic about any single option or detail. lack of energy will naturally lead to conflicting concepts, causing more attention drawn to correcting, altering, and aligning everything rather than continuing to progress forward.

that's my excuse for being lazy.

Any novelist would tell you that starting a project is the easy part. The difficult part is finishing it. You'd be amazed at how common your fears really are. Just as an example, I made my first attempt at a novel a few years back and that word document is currently collecting dust in my writing folder.

Passion is important, of course, but arguably even more important is will. If you really want this (and it sounds like you do) you're going to have to muscle through a lot of problems and insecurities. It comes with the territory.

So I hope you don't give up before you even start.

You can change it yourself by going to edit the OP, clicking on "Go Advanced" and then changing the title.

I'll add something more substantial later.

Thanks a lot for the tip and I look forward to your thoughts.

 

[LumpyCPU...]

Any novelist would tell you that starting a project is the easy part. The difficult part is finishing it. You'd be amazed at how common your fears really are. Just as an example, I made my first attempt at a novel a few years back and that word document is currently collecting dust in my writing folder.

Passion is important, of course, but arguably even more important is will. If you really want this (and it sounds like you do) you're going to have to muscle through a lot of problems and insecurities. It comes with the territory.

So I hope you don't give up before you even start.

thank you for the novel writing support.
we'll see what i turn it into...

 

[SKnickers03]

Read!!!

So I had this idea.

I'd like to compile three lists, stages if you will, on the original post.

The first being a list of people currently attempting to write a novel manuscript. Along with the dates they either began the project, or the day they decided to be put on the list (whichever they decide).

From there a person would then move onto the second list, which would consist of those who have completed a full-length manuscript and are beginning the steps to find representation and publication. Along with the dates of completion

Then the third and final list, the end-all-be-all of lists, the holy land for anyone who has ever posted on this thread. The names and novel titles of our published AUTHORS. These would be the people who overcame adversity and fought to have their dreams bound and printed. These would be the people to look up to--to learn from--and this is where anyone who risked being placed on the first list aims to be.

I see this as an opportunity to really motivate ourselves to reach our full potential. A way of formally (and publicly) declaring that you are in it for the long haul and will not stop until you reach that final stage. This will also make it easier for your fellow writers to know who needs their support the most.

A word of caution for those considering taking part in this program: YOUR NAME WILL NOT BE TAKEN OFF ONCE YOU ARE PLACED. AND THE DATES NOT ALTERED. In other words, this is for those who are serious about the craft and really need this. Our hope is that all those who enter the first stage eventually finish the course and are able to be honored for it. It may take years to see your name move through the levels, but if you truly want it, you will get there.

If you would like to be entered, please post the following:

1) PUT ME ON THE LIST
2) SWF Name, Real name (If you would like your real name posted)
3) List 1 or 2. (In case there are those with finished manuscripts already seeking publication)
4) Date you began the project OR the date you requested to be placed on the list

That's it. Remember, serious aspiring authors only. Good luck and happy writing!