I'm just about at 5000 words on the new novel which, I know doesn't sound like much. But considering the fact that I wiped out everything I had this week and started over, I'm pretty happy.
I had almost 4000 words written originally, but I was struggling and you shouldn't be struggling in the first chapter. Chapter 10, yes. But not chapter 1. This is where the words should flow like honey.
So I started over but this time tried 1st person POV (past tense) and it seemed to work. I've tried 1st person before in an earlier novel (when I was first starting out) but got stuck on the story at about page 200 and abandoned it. So I got to the end of chapter one and while I liked this 1st person pov much better, there was still something not right. So I tried again. This time in 1st person present tense. And voila! I think I've got it! Two chapters and still going strong. We'll see.
The thing is, I have to write this book for myself. With each novel, my voice gets stronger. Write for yourself. Write the sort of book YOU want to read. Make yourself happy. Because believe me, you won't make everyone happy. Check out this article: Whom do Authors Write For? I agree with Mr. Amis.
ADD ON: Check out Marilyn Brant's great interview at Chick Lit Writers. Chick Lit lives on!
Monday, January 24, 2011
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3 comments:
Great advice! I'm going to check out the article now. Thanks! Have a great week.
Aww, thanks, Maria!! ;)
I think, for me, the thing I've learned is that there's, unfortunately, no guarantee that ANY part of a novel is going to be easier than other parts. I usually have a really tough time with the first few chapters, trying to make all of those decisions you were talking about (like which POV to use, and which tone, in addition to plot and characterization stuff). Sometimes I'm pleasantly surprised when I get it right the first time. Most of the time, though, I have to experiment before I hit the right way...and that doesn't mean readers always agree with my choice later, LOL.
I'm very excited for you and this new story, and I'm looking forward to hearing more about it soon!! xo
Thanks so much for this post Maria.
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