Ever since I was a “winner” on NaNoWriMo (several years ago), I have been editing and adding to the words I continue to write.
Editing isn’t always fun, but it can be fun when I find a section of the writing that needs a little propping up. It is too easy for me to get so lost in the “story” that I forget to add all the other surrounding aspects of a particular section. Editing for me is when I take a paragraph and expand it into several more, maybe even several pages.
When I write, I seem to hear the conversations first. After that, I look around and check out the place where this is taking place. There is so much to see, and I want the reader to see it all, too. Other writers say they do a lot of description first, then go back to include the conversations, or dialogues.
Another area where writers differ is in their approach. Some are strictly “seat of the pants” writers (“pantsers”) and just let the story go where it will once they begin. Others have a lengthy detailed outline of where they want the story to go.
I suppose I’m a combination of those (“plantser”). I write a vague outline that is sparse and general. Within that, I let the characters tell the story they want to tell and I go along for the ride.
No matter which kind of writer you are, I encourage you to set aside a time each day to write. This is something I need to keep reminding myself, too. I find it is too easy to get caught up in all the requirements of “Life” and not take time to do what nourishes my soul – writing.
TIP: It’s time (past time?) to plan for the 2022 NaNoWriMo! Begin thinking and planning today! It begins in only two more days!
My long-deceased Kaimana Kat (above) wishes you a “Happy Halloween!”
A hui hou!
I write music, not words, but I’ve also found that at different times in my life, different times of the day were my preferred/natural times to write. During the pandemic it was 2:30/3:00am. Now, it’s noonish. At another time in my life it was 5:00/6:00am.