Between The Covers : Conversations with Writers in Fiction, Nonfiction & Poetry Tin House Live : “From First Draft to Plot” with Alexander Chee
10 snips
Feb 21, 2020 AI Snips
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Episode notes
Chee's First Novel Journey
- Alexander Chee began writing his first novel cynically as an autobiographical project about his life.
- The manuscript initially lacked intentional plot and reads like a house with things left scattered.
First Draft Is Exploration Phase
- Treat your first draft as a character sketch letting you explore the story's elements freely.
- Postpone exact decisions and research, focusing first on what the story wants.
Use Character Cards for Depth
- Use detailed character cards to learn truths about your characters the novel won't reveal.
- Include secrets and background info to deepen plot and character development.