There is a lot of advice in the blogosphere for us writers. Blogs, books, webinars, virtual classrooms. It boils down to this:
Don’t look at the
monitor
I realize this is a strange bit of advice but hear me out. While the creative
juices are flowing during the first draft, it is natural to look at the
monitor. Don’t. While typing, look at
a blank piece of paper, the floor, the wall. Glance at the monitor and keyboard
to make sure you aren't doing this number: dp,yjomh ;olr but otherwise,
keep your brain moving.
Don’t let the monitor play Squirrel! with your mind.
Research examples of
established writing.
When I begin a new book, my mind is in two places. First, I
am into the story. Second, I question myself. What interested me in this book?
What is it about the first line/page/paragraph that drew me in? I analyze these
sections.
Scenes that pop aren't just a source of good reading. They are also examples of good writing. I blow them up like a digital engine to see the
moving parts. A play-by-play scrutiny from my writer’s eye, grammatically and
emotionally. Why did the MC’s actions affect me and when? At what point did my
mind’s eye lock into this scene and why?
Explore your feelings
Humans and writers (non-humans?) have depths that remain
hidden. A private place that doesn’t come out to play much. If you want your
writing to be real, bring those hidden places out. Give them a venue, your
manuscript, your scene-stealers.
Distractions
You've heard this advice many times: ‘Pick a time of day to write when distractions are few’. Blah, blah blah. This borders on fantasy land.
Interruptions from your job and loved ones who insist on bugging you, (seriously,
it’s a wonder I haven’t put a shock collar on the hubby) are a fact. It
happens. Deal with it (shock collars on sale at Amazon?).
But you do have control
over the internet.
When you write, WRITE. Do not let the siren’s call of the
internet pull you away.
Check no facts, spellings, alternate emotions. No email
pings. No images. No videos. Write.
Give it up for a few
days
Ben Franklin said
Guests like fish begin to stink after a few days.
So does our writing. Give
that manuscript a rest. Let that beloved prose snooze for a few days. I guarantee
the bad parts will rise to the surface.
