Novel Writing

I'm taking a few posts to discuss novel writing.

Here is a deep truth. You do have to sit in a chair at some point and begin to plow forward. I don't think there is a "correct" method of doing this. As long as the pages appear, you are on the right track.

Here is a random list of hints to help you do the complex work of novel crafting:

Creating a document map as you go helps. Keeps you from getting lost.

Novel writing makes you navigate vast waters that will eventually call you to throw every management skill you can muster into play.

I think keeping a "real, live, actual" calendar helps keep the logic of the story in place.

If your novel's story arc last about three months, and you spend the first 8 chapters on 2 days of real time, you need to work on the pacing. 49 page chapters are also problem.


Do you truly understand each and every one of your characters? If you don't, I guarantee you will end up confusing them with each other as you write.

You don't have to do everything now. If you want to just write "then something stupid happens" and move on to the next chapter, give yourself that permission.

I hope one of these hints resonates with you and gets you on track for novel creation. Remember novel writing is about quality and quantity.

Now on a side note: I watched Satoshi Kon's Paprika this week. That was a tripping tale that explores the depths of subconscious and dreams. I found the storytelling a little disjointed for my taste, but visually, yi, yi, yi, stunning. I walked away from this movie stunned by its brilliant visionary assault.

Every great dream begins with a dreamer. Always remember, you have within you the strength, the patience, and the passion to reach for the stars to change the world.

Harriet Tubman