Renee asked me if I'm a scene writer. And since it's got me thinking, and I don't quite have the time for a proper post, here's what I said: (and I just noticed that it doesn't really answer her question!)
I started out as a chunk writer, but the chunks I wrote were mainly from the first half of the book, not all over the place. Then I put those together, then I got soooooo stuck I didn't write much for quite a while. It wasn't until I realized what the problem was and eliminated it that the characters started talking to me again. Now I'm cruising through from start to finish, rewriting what needs it as I go, and then I'll continue in a linear fashion. Unless that stops working! (G)It's like that lady said (can't remember her name): "There are three rules to writing a novel. Unfortunately, nobody knows what they are."Everybody, everybody has to find their own way, and millions have failed because they gave up. I'm a book learner, I can sit in a class and remember what I've been told. I can memorize things out of books. So this gritty, teeth-gnashing process is a new experience for me, and my instinct may always be to want to ask someone else how. But I feel better - stronger and smarter - for doing what needs to be done, even if it's my own messed up way. I feel more confident, whether I succeed or not. I'm doing it...look mom, no hands!
2 comments:
I'm kind of doing the same thing. Started out with chunks (mostly in the latter half, actually *g*). If a scene idea comes to me, I'll write it. But I've also gone back to some of the chunks and written linearly from there. And I've written out a pretty linear outline. At this point, it's whatever flows.
I love that "three rules" quote!
I feel like I've been muddling along forever! Sometimes I doubt myself and am sure I'm doing it all wrong and don't have what it takes to be a "real" writer (whatever that means), and other times I am completely swept up in the magic of the creative process and feel like I can fly.
It's good to know I'm not alone! ;o)
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