I have to come clean. Writing on the train has not worked and it will not. It was really uncomfortable (and I mean physically, not from the point of a person sitting next to me, wondering what I’m doing) and I was all hunched up with my notebook in a cramped space that did nothing for my back, let alone my handwriting. It took me ages to get into it and by the time I’d really started I had to stop. In fact, I only gave it the one trip before I knew how useless writing on the train was going to be. All is not lost since I now spend the time reading. I’m back into my YA fiction and I’m finding it a much more satisfactory use of my time since I can get into a book in the blink of an eye. And since I believe you can never do enough research this will suit me just fine.
As far as The Secret Diary goes, I’ve been feeling really inhibited by it. The main reason for this has been where to begin. Since I made the decision to change it I’ve been dancing around it without really sinnking my teeth in. I realise I need a brand new outline, a new plan that I can focus on and stop trying to beat the old one into shape. It won’t mean a total rewrite, most of what I already have is going in but it needs a new approach so I can get the thing sorted and back on track. Time will always be a problem, but that hasn’t been the full extent of why my writing has stalled. The biggest issue is getting over this hurdle, then I know I’ll find the time as I’ll have it under control and will actually want to continue on with it.
Besides, I’ve got a ton of other ideas that have been tapping my shoulder for attention and I won’t be able to address any of them until I’ve got this current project finished and submitted.
My human gets up every morning at 3 AM to write. He’s stubborn about it but it works for him. Since many of his works are historical in nature, he spends an inordinate amount of time in research. And your right, its a necessity. Keep on writing. Visit me at http://www.sandysays1.wordpress.com
Now that’s dedication. I love my writing but not enough to forgo my sleep. I do agree though, research is key to writing.
I’m sorry writing on the train didn’t work out, but reading is the next best thing! *grin*
Now about that hurdle. You mustn’t let it beat you. You must get that plan done so you can keep writing. I was in a similar situation and almost gave up writing for good. Please…please don’t let that happen to you. Plan the rewrite and get stuck into it.
“You must get that plan done so you can keep writing.”
Never a truer word was spoken. I’ve just come to realise this very fact. I’ve gone back to the basics and am in the process of nutting out a new outline which I’ll blog about another day.
I usually find unless I get am able to find that certain “approach” all the ideas in the world won’t help me get into my character’s skin. I really have to feel my characters in order to write the story but ho the story is approached is also important for me.
You’re right, it’s so important to understand and know who your characters are. Make them 3D rather than 2D.