“Every book, or body of writing, is a new experience,” explains author, and writing coach, Elizabeth Stark. “Each work holds its own internal structure, that says, ‘This is how you read me.'”
The opening of a novel or story must be explicit in revealing this. Presenting a confusing pattern or one that lacks this information loses the reader, and prevents them from engaging with the characters and story.
“Those who seek to assist writers in refining and revising their works of fiction and non-fiction must take each piece on the terms of the work, as established at the outset,” suggests Elizabeth.
Again, the question, “What’s interesting about this work?” reveals the invaluableness of reading for discovery, that of searching for not simply what does not make sense or appears incongruent, but to identify what is working, and, what is, for lack of a better word, right, about the work.
Highlighting what a writer has accomplished in her or his attempt at writing, revising and editing their novel or collection of short stories clarifies not simply her or his strengths, the aspects of craft they have mastered, but also delineates where they have yet to grow.
Providing this information to the would-be writer and author can ultimately catalyze her or him to delve into honing their skills in the more challenging areas of writing.
Early on, I learned from gracious readers, and fellow writing group and workshop participants, that my characters leap off the page through what they think and say. Yet I had difficulties in establishing and maintaining a clear plotline.
I have had to learn over the years how to identify and distill into a short sentence or phrase the dilemma facing my protagonist. Trying to cross the street, attempting to save a failed marriage, racing through the airport in an effort to make a flight or catch a loved one before she or he boards their flight.
In so doing, I could then nudge my lively and empathic characters while revealing aspects of personality through engaging dialogue to make irrevocable choices thus propelling the plot.
How do you begin writing your stories–by establishing scene, writing dialogue, listing plot points?
What aspects of crafting fiction do you save for last, or perhaps ignore?