And I'm not just talking about full length novels, either. If you're doing a modified version of NaNoWriMo (like me), or have written short stories, essays, and poems, you know what I'm talking about.
As I was writing yesterday—hit my word count goal, yay!—I realized I was making things even harder on myself by introducing another character, and adding in another subplot. I started to get stressed out, and then I remembered this piece of great writing advice for beginners: KEEP. IT. SIMPLE.
It sounds easy, but believe me, sometimes “simple” is anything but! You want to be able to get right to the point, which means you don’t need excessive adjectives and adverbs. The description, the action, and the plot should all “move the story forward.”
Here are three “Keep it Simple” hints:
Keep your list of characters short. Too many characters can be hard to keep track of. Last night, I cut back on one of mine because I couldn't fit him in the story without things getting complicated. And who knows, maybe I can use him for another story someday.
Keep your story to one plot. Too many side plots can confuse readers. This is especially true with short stories—which of course is what I am writing.
Keep your personal goals manageable. Trying to write too much, too soon can be overwhelming. Promise yourself you will write “a little” every day, even if it’s just one sentence. Sure, your aim is for 334-ish words a day if you're doing a modified version of NaNoWriMo—but after the challenge, don't stop, even if it is a few sentences at a time.
Gotta jet! I plan to dive in just as soon as I shovel our walks. We got snow last night! May the words be in your favour...
~ Chase Superman Duffy
No comments:
Post a Comment