The Pyrenees---Southern France

The Pyrenees---Southern France

Wednesday, August 3, 2011

To Plot or Not to Plot...THAT is the Question


photo by The B@man
     
     I have never written a novel, although the idea intrigues me. I tried NaNoWriMo last year and crashed and burned without even getting off the runway.

    Always fascinated when writers open up their heads and let us take a peek under the hood, I thoroughly enjoyed Clara Gillow Clark's interview.

     When you get about halfway down, study her answer to the question, "Do you plot, or not?"  Writers are supposed to know what is the pockets of their characters. They are expected to know what a character's space looks like. But Clara's answer gives us some tips on things we should decide that will help us shape a story.

       And now your mission, if you choose to accept it. I am putting it out publicly: I plan on trying NaNoWriMo again. Perhaps the second time is a charm. For all those novelists, how about some helpful hints? For those who have survived the hellish November experience...any advice?