Just write it!

Recently, I realised that I was about a third of the way into the first draft of my first serious attempt at a novel. As one could imagine I wasn’t happy with it. There is some great stuff there, but stylistically I have a lot of work to do. I had thought this through, planned out everything and had very clear ideas about my characters and various key points in the plot, but … I realised that I was probably trying to run before I could walk.

Then out of the blue I see a tweet from Ksenia Anske on the danger of outlining. Indeed, why should I plan how I’m going to write a book, I never plan anything. And so it was that this fell just before I forced myself to take a break from my other full time job. How better to celebrate than to just dive in and say I’m going to write for two days. What a fantastic experience. I had no idea what was going to happen. I started –

First, the stars fell from the sky, now, it would appear it’s our turn.

 Still not sure it makes any sense, but what better way to start. Two days later there are nearly 4000 words done and some of the best action and dialogue sequences I have written … so far! It needs some work and it’s certainly not ready to share, but it was a lot of fun.  Have I found a new method, probably not, but I’ve found a new tool – a new way towards being a better writer.

Thanks @kseniaanske