The last two weeks I've been wading in the Revision/Editing Phase...more the Revision and not yet the pure editing. Part of me would like to say that I'm battling it out and struggling with creative restraints, or otherwise not enjoying what some can see as the "boring" part of the writing process. True, it can be boring. This is especially true the more you get to the Edit side.
But, there's a creative skill that happens in this part of it too. Imagine the clay artist. He takes his chunk of clay and molds it into the general form of his vision. This to me is the straight writing phase. Getting it on paper. The Revision phase puts the details in. The curves, the depth, and the texture. No, it may not be that free, open session...but it refines the vision in a way only your creative mind can do. It add your writing "signature" that can only be you. Anyone can dump a rough draft if they have enough time and interest to do so. It takes a true artist to emote something from the basic form.
So, I'm busy refining my mold. I'm taking the dragging scenes and parring them with my molding knife to be the reflective moment of the character to his/her surroundings and journey. I'm taking the 4 chapters of straight action and adding depth to showcase the character dynamics and emotions developing through the chase. I'm taking that heated scene and adding texture to allow the characters to fall in love and not just lust.
Now, I'm not claiming to be a Salvador Dali...but I think I can be a pretty successful Street Artist. We'll have to wait and see what you all think in June when the debut novel comes out.
Good writing (and refining) all!
Showing posts with label Revision. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Revision. Show all posts
Friday, December 17, 2010
Sunday, August 8, 2010
Re Vision
I had it all laid out. I thought the creature planet scenes were outlined just how I wanted them. They fit the vision I had...and they didn't work. Re-reading it, I realized two things:
Uh...the scenes equalled 13K words. Oh boy. 36 hours later I had cut of 5K words from original, added 6K new words in, performed a complete wobble shuffle of scene order, and totally reworked 2 main character's motives.
You'd think I'd feel frustrated, disappointed, and discouraged. You'd be wrong. I'm feeling exhilarated, content, and productive. A year ago I would've felt all those first ways, but I've learned some things on this journey.
The writer's original vision of a story is not always going to be the final vision. Sometimes it is, but for the most part it's just the spark. That spark is just a spontaneous moment of idea, either through an "ah-ha" or a dream. You as the writer need to take the spark and mold it into a real story, which means some parts of the spark have to be revised to be true to the overall theme, motive, and reasoning.
So remember, look beyond your inspired moment to see the real story beyond.
Good writing all!
- The order of events were not natural
- The action and reactions of both the characters and the creatures were wrong
Uh...the scenes equalled 13K words. Oh boy. 36 hours later I had cut of 5K words from original, added 6K new words in, performed a complete wobble shuffle of scene order, and totally reworked 2 main character's motives.
You'd think I'd feel frustrated, disappointed, and discouraged. You'd be wrong. I'm feeling exhilarated, content, and productive. A year ago I would've felt all those first ways, but I've learned some things on this journey.
The writer's original vision of a story is not always going to be the final vision. Sometimes it is, but for the most part it's just the spark. That spark is just a spontaneous moment of idea, either through an "ah-ha" or a dream. You as the writer need to take the spark and mold it into a real story, which means some parts of the spark have to be revised to be true to the overall theme, motive, and reasoning.
So remember, look beyond your inspired moment to see the real story beyond.
Good writing all!
Friday, August 6, 2010
Groovin' Along
I can't help it. I'm in a good mood. My Revelations of Tomorrow revisions are going well, the characters are clicking (or not clicking depending their dynamics), and the subplots are weaving nicely with the main plot. Even the red pen and I are happily getting along.
Yup, AR's a happy writer at the moment. Of course, all us writers know it won't last. It's inevitable that the bumps and walls will come. I'll be cruising down the creative highway and BHAM, my imaginary sports car will crash right into it.
There will be blood, gore, and all around grossness. My hair will be in tufts, my eyes blood shot, and a look of confusion and frustration etched on my face. Maybe I'll climb out, turn around in wonder at how fast it happened. Or, maybe I'll be stuck in that imaginary sports car when the sparked gas fire reaches the engine and KAPOW! Eek, I hope it's not a convertible...
Sorry, my imagination got away from me for a second, but I'm back (sort of).
For now I'm going to enjoy the scenery, the curving roads, and the speed. I mean, I don't want to be an frumpy grumpy pessimist or anything.
Good writing all!
Yup, AR's a happy writer at the moment. Of course, all us writers know it won't last. It's inevitable that the bumps and walls will come. I'll be cruising down the creative highway and BHAM, my imaginary sports car will crash right into it.
There will be blood, gore, and all around grossness. My hair will be in tufts, my eyes blood shot, and a look of confusion and frustration etched on my face. Maybe I'll climb out, turn around in wonder at how fast it happened. Or, maybe I'll be stuck in that imaginary sports car when the sparked gas fire reaches the engine and KAPOW! Eek, I hope it's not a convertible...
Sorry, my imagination got away from me for a second, but I'm back (sort of).
For now I'm going to enjoy the scenery, the curving roads, and the speed. I mean, I don't want to be an frumpy grumpy pessimist or anything.
Good writing all!
Monday, August 2, 2010
The Red Pen (Enter Scary Music)
Yes, a weekend of revisions and even though most is additional information from my research, the red ink is like blood dripping from wounded pages.
It's progress, it's exhilarating, and it's....messy, red, smugged, wrinkled, with a drip of chai tea on page 16.
I know I'm not the only writer that does this, but when you print the first draft (yes, I print them the first couple rounds. I know bad AR, bad!) they're all crisp and clean and shiny new, new. I place them lovingly in my purple file folder. I may or may not hug it at this point...you'll never know.
Okay, okay. I do hug it. It's a reminder to myself that I love this work, even though in the hours and days that follow it'll pretty much be nothing but carnage with a few scraps left of itself.
Hopefully after the plastic surgery is complete, the wounds healed, and the dressings removed it'll be a better version.
Of course, that means I must do it all over again, and again...and again (Billy Murray in Groundhog Day flashes anyone? Anyone?)
Good writing all! (And lots of fun slaughtering - er - revising!)
It's progress, it's exhilarating, and it's....messy, red, smugged, wrinkled, with a drip of chai tea on page 16.
I know I'm not the only writer that does this, but when you print the first draft (yes, I print them the first couple rounds. I know bad AR, bad!) they're all crisp and clean and shiny new, new. I place them lovingly in my purple file folder. I may or may not hug it at this point...you'll never know.
Okay, okay. I do hug it. It's a reminder to myself that I love this work, even though in the hours and days that follow it'll pretty much be nothing but carnage with a few scraps left of itself.
Hopefully after the plastic surgery is complete, the wounds healed, and the dressings removed it'll be a better version.
Of course, that means I must do it all over again, and again...and again (Billy Murray in Groundhog Day flashes anyone? Anyone?)
Good writing all! (And lots of fun slaughtering - er - revising!)
Monday, July 26, 2010
Build or Layer
This weekend was another push to complete the first draft of Revelations of Tomorrow. I have 6 planned scenes remaining, which in reality will probably end up being 8 or 9 (I usually find I've missed a few gaps along the way).
I know I've talked - er, written - about my writing method before, but I thought with the timing it would be appropriate to again. There are two types of writer methods in my thoughts. (I know there are probably more detailed versions, but my mind always groups them into two broad categories.) Those who build from the ground up and those who layer.
(A note before I go into this. Either group can have a developed plot line or not.)
Okay.
The Ground Up folks work each scene to its fullest potential at the moment it comes down on paper, then move on to the next.
The Layering group (aka Bakers) write out the basic concept and plot line of the story. Then they flesh out details, layer by layer.
I'm more of the Layering type. Some scenes capture my attention enough that I flesh them out on the first draft, but for the most part, it's rather minimal. The next layers, usually, are the emotional and cultural scenes (as the culture usually dictates part of the emotional reaction). Then I have layers for scenery, scene transitioning, technical consistency. After all those layers, I take a couple weeks breather and then return to see how everything meshed together.
So that's my writing method and my thoughts on the two main types of writer methods.
Good writing all! (What kind of writing method do you all use?)
I know I've talked - er, written - about my writing method before, but I thought with the timing it would be appropriate to again. There are two types of writer methods in my thoughts. (I know there are probably more detailed versions, but my mind always groups them into two broad categories.) Those who build from the ground up and those who layer.
(A note before I go into this. Either group can have a developed plot line or not.)
Okay.
The Ground Up folks work each scene to its fullest potential at the moment it comes down on paper, then move on to the next.
The Layering group (aka Bakers) write out the basic concept and plot line of the story. Then they flesh out details, layer by layer.
I'm more of the Layering type. Some scenes capture my attention enough that I flesh them out on the first draft, but for the most part, it's rather minimal. The next layers, usually, are the emotional and cultural scenes (as the culture usually dictates part of the emotional reaction). Then I have layers for scenery, scene transitioning, technical consistency. After all those layers, I take a couple weeks breather and then return to see how everything meshed together.
So that's my writing method and my thoughts on the two main types of writer methods.
Good writing all! (What kind of writing method do you all use?)
Sunday, June 6, 2010
Unbelievable Success
I've been subbing Duty and Devotion the last few months without the request for partials and fulls I'd like. It's been a little disappointing, so early last week I was reading through the new queries on Query Shark and came across QueryTest.com in one of the comments.
I knew that my query was not as good as it could be, but I couldn't pinpoint the issue. Hmmm...maybe QueryTest might be helpful. I looked through the site and decided to upload mine and see what happened. The site was very helpful with a good response volume (13 in total).
The summary...my query sucked. And not only did QueryTest help me out with that realization, readers gave the reason why.
I went back to the drawing board and after a major revision and resubmission through the site, I sent out a new batch of agent queries and a couple publisher submissions.
Eureka!
Within the first hour (not kidding you) I got a request for full. This morning I woke up with an email from another letting me know my submission was going from the slush pile to editorial review.
If you're looking to diagnose your query, try out this great new site. Totally worth the ego deflation...at least you'll understand where you're going wrong with it.
Good writing all!
I knew that my query was not as good as it could be, but I couldn't pinpoint the issue. Hmmm...maybe QueryTest might be helpful. I looked through the site and decided to upload mine and see what happened. The site was very helpful with a good response volume (13 in total).
The summary...my query sucked. And not only did QueryTest help me out with that realization, readers gave the reason why.
I went back to the drawing board and after a major revision and resubmission through the site, I sent out a new batch of agent queries and a couple publisher submissions.
Eureka!
Within the first hour (not kidding you) I got a request for full. This morning I woke up with an email from another letting me know my submission was going from the slush pile to editorial review.
If you're looking to diagnose your query, try out this great new site. Totally worth the ego deflation...at least you'll understand where you're going wrong with it.
Good writing all!
Wednesday, January 13, 2010
Four Horseman Anthology Update
Yay! I'm so excited, as shown by previous exclamation point. Yesterday morning I received the first pass of edits by my - clears throat - editor (that felt really cool to write by the way..sorry, geek moment over).
Jessy Roberts, Pill Hill's editor, had some fantastic revision ideas that streamlined and focused the story in a way I couldn't imagine. I know that a lot of people get hurt feelings when someone critiques their writing. I don't. Mainly because when they critique it, it means they were paying attention. And, it means they aren't sugar coating you with brown-nosing or because they fear hurting your feelings.
This morning she sent me the cover art with permission to post it here. Now, just fair warning, this will be posted again when the book is on Amazon. I don't know if I'll be allowed to post the illustration for my actual story, but I'll let you know.
(enter drum roll)...
Eek! Okay, I lied. Another geek moment on its way. This cover is so awesome! I can't wait to have it in my book collection. I can't wait to read the other stories.
In general, I just can't wait!
I wrote my first story in 2nd grade. I remember, because I entered the story into McDonald's writing contest and won the kitchen toy. This kitchen toy was the first plastic version (whereas the previous were metal and would rust and wear down). Needless to say, I was the envy of the neighborhood until that richer, blond-ponytail girl's dad from down the street bought her one with an extra set of dishes.
From that first story came the seed of my passion for writing. After 2nd grade the traditional writer's inhibition kicked in and my work became personal and private. But, with that 2nd grade win another seed was planted. It didn't flourish until 2008. This was the need to have strangers read my work.
They don't have to like it. Heck they can hate it. But they'll have read words I strung together to create substance where there was once only thoughts and visions. I've been published online and it was exciting. But, I didn't realize the difference this would mean to me. This book will always be in existence, somewhere.
Even if just in someones attic.
Good writing all!
Jessy Roberts, Pill Hill's editor, had some fantastic revision ideas that streamlined and focused the story in a way I couldn't imagine. I know that a lot of people get hurt feelings when someone critiques their writing. I don't. Mainly because when they critique it, it means they were paying attention. And, it means they aren't sugar coating you with brown-nosing or because they fear hurting your feelings.
This morning she sent me the cover art with permission to post it here. Now, just fair warning, this will be posted again when the book is on Amazon. I don't know if I'll be allowed to post the illustration for my actual story, but I'll let you know.
(enter drum roll)...
Eek! Okay, I lied. Another geek moment on its way. This cover is so awesome! I can't wait to have it in my book collection. I can't wait to read the other stories.In general, I just can't wait!
I wrote my first story in 2nd grade. I remember, because I entered the story into McDonald's writing contest and won the kitchen toy. This kitchen toy was the first plastic version (whereas the previous were metal and would rust and wear down). Needless to say, I was the envy of the neighborhood until that richer, blond-ponytail girl's dad from down the street bought her one with an extra set of dishes.
From that first story came the seed of my passion for writing. After 2nd grade the traditional writer's inhibition kicked in and my work became personal and private. But, with that 2nd grade win another seed was planted. It didn't flourish until 2008. This was the need to have strangers read my work.
They don't have to like it. Heck they can hate it. But they'll have read words I strung together to create substance where there was once only thoughts and visions. I've been published online and it was exciting. But, I didn't realize the difference this would mean to me. This book will always be in existence, somewhere.
Even if just in someones attic.
Good writing all!
Sunday, December 20, 2009
Quick Writing Progress
With the two short stories completed, I got back to work on Galileo. With about 1200 words cut and 350 put back in, I managed to finish two more chapters. Today my goal is to focus on two more. This should wrap up Nettie's story.
Okay, off to enter the world of Galileo.
Good writing all!
Okay, off to enter the world of Galileo.
Good writing all!
Wednesday, December 16, 2009
Flashbacks
I'm going to say it...I'm not a fan of the flashback. The word reminds me of cheesy thriller or mystery novels that involve stereotyped 1970-1980 detectives. Or the ex-cop facing off against the criminal who killed his wife and kid in revenge (overused plot alert).
Merriam describes a flashback as "an interruption of the chronological sequence (as of a film or literary work) of an event of earlier occurrence". This is probably why I don't like them. They are really just a mechanism for an info dump and I don't like info dumps. I want the information to flow out during the course of the story.
In my reading adventures - and I am a reader of vast material - info dumps side track you from the point and make it difficult to follow the storyline or keep engaged with the characters.
I know the pro argument for flashbacks. They provide pertinent information to the current situation, including character motivation, relationship dynamics, and conflict. My response is always, "Maybe you're starting the story at the wrong place then". Or maybe you're putting too much into the "pertinent information".
Now if there's parts of the characters "past life" (pre-novel) that is important, you can work those concepts in to the current storyline by their reaction to certain situations and dialogue. Take Under the Dome by Stephen King, since I just did the review and all. He worked the character's past life into the modern story without info dumping or flashback scenes. He did it with tasteful glimpses through thoughts and conversations in the moment.
Well, imagine my surprise when I realized that my Galileo dream sequences were actually flashbacks? Groan and curse...dang it! Then imagine my chagrin when I realized that my like of dream sequences have faded the more I learn my writing style.
Now dream sequences I've seen done really well in regards to the characters internal conflict and foreshadowing events to come. I just don't think that I am the kind of writer to do them well and all mine reference past events and relationships.
Argh!
Now I have these ugly things in my story and I have to find a way to work the core point of the content in better ways.
Time to be a dream killer...good writing all!
Merriam describes a flashback as "an interruption of the chronological sequence (as of a film or literary work) of an event of earlier occurrence". This is probably why I don't like them. They are really just a mechanism for an info dump and I don't like info dumps. I want the information to flow out during the course of the story.
In my reading adventures - and I am a reader of vast material - info dumps side track you from the point and make it difficult to follow the storyline or keep engaged with the characters.
I know the pro argument for flashbacks. They provide pertinent information to the current situation, including character motivation, relationship dynamics, and conflict. My response is always, "Maybe you're starting the story at the wrong place then". Or maybe you're putting too much into the "pertinent information".
Now if there's parts of the characters "past life" (pre-novel) that is important, you can work those concepts in to the current storyline by their reaction to certain situations and dialogue. Take Under the Dome by Stephen King, since I just did the review and all. He worked the character's past life into the modern story without info dumping or flashback scenes. He did it with tasteful glimpses through thoughts and conversations in the moment.
Well, imagine my surprise when I realized that my Galileo dream sequences were actually flashbacks? Groan and curse...dang it! Then imagine my chagrin when I realized that my like of dream sequences have faded the more I learn my writing style.
Now dream sequences I've seen done really well in regards to the characters internal conflict and foreshadowing events to come. I just don't think that I am the kind of writer to do them well and all mine reference past events and relationships.
Argh!
Now I have these ugly things in my story and I have to find a way to work the core point of the content in better ways.
Time to be a dream killer...good writing all!
Monday, December 14, 2009
To Edit or Not to Edit
I sat staring at the PC, willing my brain to come up with a really snazzy post topic. I hope that I provide engaging content that is both thought triggering (provoking just seems so generic and over used) and helpful. I try to integrate the "tips" and "lessons learned" in with my current WIP.
There are millions of writing tips that can be given. Millions...yes, I can allow myself too hyperbole. I'm a writer after all.
*rubs hands*
Okay, of the million tips, which do I want to talk about today? Hmmm...editing. Or rather, not editing. With my recent frustrations of Sorcerer's Carnival and the editing of two short stories I think it's appropriate. Not to mention - which is a weird sentence introduction as I'm about to mention - my online writing circle had a forum discussion about this very topic.
Many writers, especially new writers, want to edit as they write out their first draft. My tip: don't worry about editing when your laying out the first draft of your story. By trying to edit as you unveil the story in your mind, you're limiting your creative juice from the gate.
Let your muse do his or her thing. Don't restrict them. Don't slow them down. Don't stop them. Your muse runs on an underlying level of thought that your conscious doesn't recognize or see. Basically, you don't know all the thoughts you're thinking. Your muse, however, can see everything and cruise all the avenues.
By definition your draft is suppose to suck. It's suppose to have grammar errors, sentence mayhem, and confusing paragraphs. The climax of the story will be in an odd spot and your characters will conflict with their core characteristics.
It's okay.
After your muse exhausts himself or herself and crawls into his or her mental bed to sleep off the creative hangover, your Nazi Editor can march out and straighten up the mess. They are systematic, organized, and ruthless.
I guess the core of what I'm saying? The Muse and the Editor don't play well on the playground, so don't have them out at the same time. You're just begging for the Muse to go all bitch on you and risking your Editor having a meltdown.
Then where will you be? Screwed, that's where.
That's my writing tip for the day. Good writing all (and editing too)!
There are millions of writing tips that can be given. Millions...yes, I can allow myself too hyperbole. I'm a writer after all.
*rubs hands*
Okay, of the million tips, which do I want to talk about today? Hmmm...editing. Or rather, not editing. With my recent frustrations of Sorcerer's Carnival and the editing of two short stories I think it's appropriate. Not to mention - which is a weird sentence introduction as I'm about to mention - my online writing circle had a forum discussion about this very topic.
Many writers, especially new writers, want to edit as they write out their first draft. My tip: don't worry about editing when your laying out the first draft of your story. By trying to edit as you unveil the story in your mind, you're limiting your creative juice from the gate.
Let your muse do his or her thing. Don't restrict them. Don't slow them down. Don't stop them. Your muse runs on an underlying level of thought that your conscious doesn't recognize or see. Basically, you don't know all the thoughts you're thinking. Your muse, however, can see everything and cruise all the avenues.
By definition your draft is suppose to suck. It's suppose to have grammar errors, sentence mayhem, and confusing paragraphs. The climax of the story will be in an odd spot and your characters will conflict with their core characteristics.
It's okay.
After your muse exhausts himself or herself and crawls into his or her mental bed to sleep off the creative hangover, your Nazi Editor can march out and straighten up the mess. They are systematic, organized, and ruthless.
I guess the core of what I'm saying? The Muse and the Editor don't play well on the playground, so don't have them out at the same time. You're just begging for the Muse to go all bitch on you and risking your Editor having a meltdown.
Then where will you be? Screwed, that's where.
That's my writing tip for the day. Good writing all (and editing too)!
Sunday, December 6, 2009
Break Through
I guess it takes getting crazy before the break through hits. At least sometimes. Unfortunately for me and Sorcerer's Carnival this was the route I had to take. The breakthrough happened in my sleep when I dreamed the solution. Well, more accurately, I dreamed the story the way it was supposed to be.
I can't say I woke up in excitement as I rarely wake up excited (I'm not a morning person by nature). But once I had several large glasses of caffeine in my system I was ready to tackle the story and reintegrate the vision I originally had for it.
It's now the end of the day and aside from mommy duty, I dedicated my energy and day to Sorcerer's Carnival. I'm now feeling the rewards of accomplishment as the draft is done and the story is how I wanted it. In fact, I've managed to also get through the first round of editing and it's pretty clean.
Writing wise it was a great day. Looking back at the fiasco of the last few days I realize that I was not really following the plan I outlined earlier in the week. I was trying to fix as I reread the original version instead of just soaking in the original story. This was blocking me from feeling the spark of creativity that started the story in the first place.
Now I just have to remember this the next time I face a similar dilemma.
Good writing all!
I can't say I woke up in excitement as I rarely wake up excited (I'm not a morning person by nature). But once I had several large glasses of caffeine in my system I was ready to tackle the story and reintegrate the vision I originally had for it.
It's now the end of the day and aside from mommy duty, I dedicated my energy and day to Sorcerer's Carnival. I'm now feeling the rewards of accomplishment as the draft is done and the story is how I wanted it. In fact, I've managed to also get through the first round of editing and it's pretty clean.
Writing wise it was a great day. Looking back at the fiasco of the last few days I realize that I was not really following the plan I outlined earlier in the week. I was trying to fix as I reread the original version instead of just soaking in the original story. This was blocking me from feeling the spark of creativity that started the story in the first place.
Now I just have to remember this the next time I face a similar dilemma.
Good writing all!
Saturday, December 5, 2009
Frustration
Every writer faces that moment where they envision tossing the main character over a cliff...followed by the manuscript.
I'm there.
I want to take Barabin, my sorcerer in Sorcerer's Carnival, and heave him over after beating the living...sigh. Two deep breaths. One long shoulder roll. Unclench teeth.
I am trying the strategy I laid out in the previous post. As you can tell. It isn't working. I am so frustrated, I'm seeing red. (Yes cliche...it's my writing journal and I'll use them if I want)
Okay, okay. Enough with this attitude. I must get back on track here. Somehow.
Am I forcing this story? I've heard that some stories end up being duds. I've have a couple in my time. It's just that I was soooo excited about this one. And the anthology it's slated for sounds very interesting.
I don't know. I feel stuck. I feel that if I don't stick to my guns I will be taking a step back in my "writing-as-a-secondary-career" development. Is it that the story does in fact suck? Or is it that my writing is just sucking in reference to this story right now?
Something to think about.
Good writing all! (Hopefully better then mine right now)
I'm there.
I want to take Barabin, my sorcerer in Sorcerer's Carnival, and heave him over after beating the living...sigh. Two deep breaths. One long shoulder roll. Unclench teeth.
I am trying the strategy I laid out in the previous post. As you can tell. It isn't working. I am so frustrated, I'm seeing red. (Yes cliche...it's my writing journal and I'll use them if I want)
Okay, okay. Enough with this attitude. I must get back on track here. Somehow.
Am I forcing this story? I've heard that some stories end up being duds. I've have a couple in my time. It's just that I was soooo excited about this one. And the anthology it's slated for sounds very interesting.
I don't know. I feel stuck. I feel that if I don't stick to my guns I will be taking a step back in my "writing-as-a-secondary-career" development. Is it that the story does in fact suck? Or is it that my writing is just sucking in reference to this story right now?
Something to think about.
Good writing all! (Hopefully better then mine right now)
Thursday, December 3, 2009
Root Cause
Last night was very productive. I started out trying to force progress on Sorcerer's Carnival. That didn't end so well and almost had my Muse and I not speaking to each other. So I moved back to Galileo and made great progress (cut 2200 words but ended up almost 500 ahead of starting word count in revisions).
This morning, I sat back to review why I've been having so much trouble with Sorcerer's Carnival. There are several factors playing into this story. First, this is my first serious fantasy story. Second, this genre - while great to read - is not easy for me to write. And Lastly, I don't think I liked the original revisions I made based on critique feedback.
Let's address each core piece and figure out how it's affecting my progress:
First: First Fantasy Draft
I had to delve into a lot of research prior to outlining and drafting this story. It was exciting for me and the first version was a bit sentimental for me. I was so excited about it. I love new opportunities for creative outlet. I don't this this is the core issue for further development.
Moving on...
Second: Difficult Genre for Me to Write
That first draft came out like a rushing waterfall. The editing and revisions have been more like water boarding torture. You wouldn't think fantasy would have so many boundaries and rules. But there are many. This is more apparent with the subject matter of sorcery and powers. Trying to be consistent with industry and reader expectations has been very difficult, aggravating, and stressful. Not too mention I hate rules and unlike sci-fi where the more implausible the farther out in the future I go...sorcery rules are bound by a historical and sometimes religious constraints. This is a definite issue to my progress on this story.
Okay, keep this going...
Third: Unhappy Critique-based Revisions
Because my weakness in the previous area, I relied heavily on the critique suggestions. Too heavily. By the time I was done changing what all the reviewers thought needed to be changed, both my Muse and I seemed pretty cut out. It didn't feel like my story anymore. This is unacceptable to me and my writing ethics.
Well, enough whining. I've come to the core of my problem and really laid out my issues. To fix this and get back on track I think I need to do the following:
This morning, I sat back to review why I've been having so much trouble with Sorcerer's Carnival. There are several factors playing into this story. First, this is my first serious fantasy story. Second, this genre - while great to read - is not easy for me to write. And Lastly, I don't think I liked the original revisions I made based on critique feedback.
Let's address each core piece and figure out how it's affecting my progress:
First: First Fantasy Draft
I had to delve into a lot of research prior to outlining and drafting this story. It was exciting for me and the first version was a bit sentimental for me. I was so excited about it. I love new opportunities for creative outlet. I don't this this is the core issue for further development.
Moving on...
Second: Difficult Genre for Me to Write
That first draft came out like a rushing waterfall. The editing and revisions have been more like water boarding torture. You wouldn't think fantasy would have so many boundaries and rules. But there are many. This is more apparent with the subject matter of sorcery and powers. Trying to be consistent with industry and reader expectations has been very difficult, aggravating, and stressful. Not too mention I hate rules and unlike sci-fi where the more implausible the farther out in the future I go...sorcery rules are bound by a historical and sometimes religious constraints. This is a definite issue to my progress on this story.
Okay, keep this going...
Third: Unhappy Critique-based Revisions
Because my weakness in the previous area, I relied heavily on the critique suggestions. Too heavily. By the time I was done changing what all the reviewers thought needed to be changed, both my Muse and I seemed pretty cut out. It didn't feel like my story anymore. This is unacceptable to me and my writing ethics.
Well, enough whining. I've come to the core of my problem and really laid out my issues. To fix this and get back on track I think I need to do the following:
- Reread the original draft
- Go through the critiques again and mark which ones fit with who I am as a writer
- Outline a balanced plan of action
- Stick with my instinct
- Put the story that I feel is right out there and hope for the best
Okay, feeling much better. Good writing all!
Sunday, November 22, 2009
Galileo Chapter 22
Galileo Chapter 22 is complete...for the second draft edit that is. I had to modify some subplots to match the earlier revisions. It's starting to look good. I'm very proud of it. I lost about 600 words to put back in 1200. My chapters were running 3300-3500. I broke them all up and now they're running between 1500-2200.
Tomorrow will be the start of Chapter 23. For tonight I'm putting away the machete and lovingly tucking my laptop on the shelf.
Until tomorrow folks. Good writing all!
Tomorrow will be the start of Chapter 23. For tonight I'm putting away the machete and lovingly tucking my laptop on the shelf.
Until tomorrow folks. Good writing all!
Streamlining
Every writer faces it...the dreaded word count. We sci-fi and fantasy writers, seem to have an added stress. No only do we have the same word count restrictions of standard genres, but we have to build worlds and connect the reader to unusual settings and characters.
I've heard it over and over through my writer groups, online, and in industry resources. Science-fiction and fantasy stories frequently end up between 100-130 K, or even more.
Sigh....now what?
Do we force through and try to get 100-130 K published, industry standards be damned? No, that's been tried before and failed miserably.
Do we break it up into a series and submit them as such? Well, yeah...if your established and proven with sales to back it up. But if you are, you wouldn't be worried about the word count. And if you were established, you wouldn't be reading this newbies blog. As a rookie, like me, you can't get away with trying to submit a series unless the first in the series is independent enough from the second, third, and so on. The plain fact is you just aren't a sure bet yet to the agent or publisher.
What to do, what to do? Here's what you do.
Start with the blaring stuff. Are there two sentences in a paragraph that describe the same thing? If so, can you mold the two by cutting words and gathering them together in a tighter sentence.
Are there multiple paragraphs describing simple, everyday actions. Does it really take two paragraphs for the character to enter the dang door? Cut it down and show what you need in one intense paragraph.
How about things you just over described by using too many adjectives?
Once you do your first pass with the obvious stuff you got to get tougher. Are there points in the storyline that just don't matter to the reader? Have you written half a chapter describing a place you'll never take a character? Or explaining a technology the characters wouldn't notice in their everyday life. This happens a lot when sci-fi writers are describing the technology of the future. It can be neat and as a sci-fi reader I can soak it up...if it fits within the storyline.
But if you're describing a travel jump to the minute details, only to have the characters blocked by the law and having to use traditional space travel...well, what was the point? The reader is now frustrated that they don't get to see the technology in action or the reaction/result to the character afterwards.
If you really want to be published, you have to remember that you've entered their world. They haven't asked you in, you're demanding to be in. So play by the rules...at least until you're famous. Then you can write two paragraphs about the color of the stupid floor, like Stephen King.
Good writing all!
I've heard it over and over through my writer groups, online, and in industry resources. Science-fiction and fantasy stories frequently end up between 100-130 K, or even more.
Sigh....now what?
Do we force through and try to get 100-130 K published, industry standards be damned? No, that's been tried before and failed miserably.
Do we break it up into a series and submit them as such? Well, yeah...if your established and proven with sales to back it up. But if you are, you wouldn't be worried about the word count. And if you were established, you wouldn't be reading this newbies blog. As a rookie, like me, you can't get away with trying to submit a series unless the first in the series is independent enough from the second, third, and so on. The plain fact is you just aren't a sure bet yet to the agent or publisher.
What to do, what to do? Here's what you do.
- Rip out your love for the story (this usually can be done if you tuck your story away for several weeks)
- Get your mental machete.
- Tear through each sentence, each paragraph, each scene, and each chapter...slicing and dicing.
Start with the blaring stuff. Are there two sentences in a paragraph that describe the same thing? If so, can you mold the two by cutting words and gathering them together in a tighter sentence.
Are there multiple paragraphs describing simple, everyday actions. Does it really take two paragraphs for the character to enter the dang door? Cut it down and show what you need in one intense paragraph.
How about things you just over described by using too many adjectives?
Once you do your first pass with the obvious stuff you got to get tougher. Are there points in the storyline that just don't matter to the reader? Have you written half a chapter describing a place you'll never take a character? Or explaining a technology the characters wouldn't notice in their everyday life. This happens a lot when sci-fi writers are describing the technology of the future. It can be neat and as a sci-fi reader I can soak it up...if it fits within the storyline.
But if you're describing a travel jump to the minute details, only to have the characters blocked by the law and having to use traditional space travel...well, what was the point? The reader is now frustrated that they don't get to see the technology in action or the reaction/result to the character afterwards.
If you really want to be published, you have to remember that you've entered their world. They haven't asked you in, you're demanding to be in. So play by the rules...at least until you're famous. Then you can write two paragraphs about the color of the stupid floor, like Stephen King.
Good writing all!
Monday, November 16, 2009
An End to the Beginning
Many of you know from an earlier post that I finally let go of the original concept for Galileo. Running on the tails of this development I cut the beginning chapters of my story. I reworked what I could in later parts but nixed the Earth-starting two chapters.
The original chapter 1 started with a readers' introduction into Annie and Danny's friendship and a description scene of Earth in the future. At a point where I could objectively look at the big picture needs of my story. The fact that Earth barely has any reference in this space located novel, I realized readers don't need a "first hand" experience of Earth. The detached references to Earth give more of the impact I was trying to originally go for.
I also changed Annie and Danny's relationship. The point of their relationship was to showcase a pure love in a time of chaos. I wanted it positive and engaging to show that all relationships don't have to start with a Moonlighting dynamic. In the end, I felt I could still show this positive relationship dynamic between them and still have them meet and fall in love during the story.
For chapter two, I had Nettie starting out with her friends and getting her militia assessment. I felt her carefree and high energy personality could still be shown without having her start on her home planet.
These changes have some repercussions for a subplot towards the end of the story, but I'll cross that bridge when it comes. Who knows, it might work itself out. I've already got some great revision ideas brewing for it.
Good writing all!
The original chapter 1 started with a readers' introduction into Annie and Danny's friendship and a description scene of Earth in the future. At a point where I could objectively look at the big picture needs of my story. The fact that Earth barely has any reference in this space located novel, I realized readers don't need a "first hand" experience of Earth. The detached references to Earth give more of the impact I was trying to originally go for.
I also changed Annie and Danny's relationship. The point of their relationship was to showcase a pure love in a time of chaos. I wanted it positive and engaging to show that all relationships don't have to start with a Moonlighting dynamic. In the end, I felt I could still show this positive relationship dynamic between them and still have them meet and fall in love during the story.
For chapter two, I had Nettie starting out with her friends and getting her militia assessment. I felt her carefree and high energy personality could still be shown without having her start on her home planet.
These changes have some repercussions for a subplot towards the end of the story, but I'll cross that bridge when it comes. Who knows, it might work itself out. I've already got some great revision ideas brewing for it.
Good writing all!
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