How long does it really take to write a great book? The host dives into their personal writing journey and the emotional ups and downs of long-term projects. They explore the creative process, emphasizing the importance of a developmental editor and scene construction. Discover the impact of narrative structure using classics like 'Pride and Prejudice.' The art of character introduction is discussed, highlighting how motivations shape narratives, alongside a look at thriller conventions and the intriguing technique of 'false endings' to maintain audience tension.
Writing speed varies greatly among authors, emphasizing that personal growth in scene writing can lead to increased efficiency over time.
The developmental editing process is uniquely tailored to each writer's needs, highlighting the importance of collaboration to enhance emotional and creative storytelling.
Deep dives
Navigating the Writing Timeline
The writer expresses concerns about the slow progress on their book, having only completed 11 scenes after several months of work. They reference other successful authors, like R.L. Stine, who can produce a book each month, which amplifies their frustration. Discussions around the normal pace of writing reveal that each author's journey is unique and varies significantly based on experience, creativity, and individual writing processes. The importance of recognizing personal growth in scene writing is stressed, suggesting that speed may increase as the writer gains confidence and experience.
Understanding Developmental Editing
The conversation delves into the concept of developmental editing, which differs from traditional editing that occurs post-manuscript acquisition. It highlights the uniqueness of the developmental editing process being pursued, emphasizing that it requires tailoring to the specific needs of the writer and their work. This process involves an exploration of the emotional and creative energy placed into the writing, and the necessity for editors to collaborate more closely with writers. It reassures the writer that feeling unsupported during this time is normal due to the unconventional nature of their collaboration.
The Role of Scenes in Storytelling
The significance of mastering scene writing emerges as a critical component in effective storytelling, as each scene functions as a microcosm of the broader narrative. The conversation emphasizes identifying the essential elements that must be present in a scene, including conflict, choices, and resolutions, to ensure it contributes meaningfully to the story. The writer is encouraged to approach scene writing not just as a task but as an opportunity to unlock creativity and propel the overall story forward. This approach helps alleviate frustrations related to perceived lack of progress, highlighting that scene writing itself is a crucial part of the writing process.
Structuring the Middle Build
Framework for the middle build of the narrative is discussed in-depth, providing insights into how the protagonist's character development should unfold. The need to establish a clear timeline for events in the story allows for better pacing and a more coherent structure. Specific examples from classic literature illustrate the effectiveness of thoughtful setting and temporal details in progressing the plot, thereby enhancing reader engagement. The discussion promotes the idea that well-defined scenes and sequences will not only clarify the middle build but also invigorate the writer's enthusiasm and sense of direction in crafting the story.