Treating a novel like a baby - the letting it grow method
If there's one thing I've learned during my time as a writer, it is that writing takes a lot of time. When authors talk about how their first novel took them ten years to complete, I used to think this was insane, that the writers were just blowing it out of proportion to make themselves sound more important. However, I've since discovered that while they might not have sat in front of a computer screen pounding keys for ten years, it's very possible the novel could take that long. Why? Because novels, plays, short stories and poems all take time to mature and grow.
The best way I can describe the novel process, is like the conception of a child. When an egg is just fertilized, it's still very much just an idea of the child it might one day become. In much the same way, when you first think of an idea for a story, you just have glimpses of what the story might become. Over time, the idea develops into something more, and begins to resemble an actual story. But even when you have finally sat down and written that first draft, and the baby is born, that story is still a long way from the man or woman or novel that it will one day become.
As writers, we need to embrace this concept, and be wary of forcing our novels into the world. When you come up with a great story idea, don't feel obligated to sit down write that moment and try and craft the entire novel. Write the idea down so you don't lose it, but then go on your merry way. Every now and then, think about the idea, see if there's anything else you'd like to do with it. When you have ideas, add them to your notes, growing the story out, fleshing the characters into three dimensional figures, and building it into something great. Once you have a clear vision of the future, go with it, write the story out, and see where it takes you.
After completing the first draft of your novel, a similar process occurs. It is too hard to properly edit your own novel after you have written it. The ideas are fresh in your mind, the story makes total sense, and you will read the story with rose primmed glasses. Once the story is done, give it time again, going to work on other writing projects and getting the story completely out of your mind. That way, a year down the line you can dust it off, read it again, and see if it still looks good. Reviewing it at this time, you will be able to see where there are flaws in the story and what needs to be fleshed out more.
Taking this approach to the writing process, you will be able to develop a stronger style as a writer. By letting the story grow before you start writing it, you will be more likely to craft a clear narrative that captures the emotions you are seeking to convey. Likewise, by letting the story sit before you edit it, you will be able to review your work with less bias and see it more like your readers will.
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