Writing Rules

[hrj]

So my current fiction writing project I've been approaching as a "process experiment", trying to alter the ways I approach novel writing to see if I can't overcome some of my deficiencies. One of my current rules is to write front to back -- no jumping around. Well, I broke that one tonight. Because having finally mapped out the overall plot arc (that is, having finally figured out what it was so I could map it), the concluding scenes jumped out at me and whapped me upside the head. So tonight I wrote the concluding scene of Part IV and next I will probably go ahead and write Part V (which is more of a coda than a full-fledged "part" -- the parts are defined by where the action takes place, to some extent). The thing is, endings are something I usually have a really hard time with. And this time the ending is perfectly clear in my mind at the moment and I don't want to lose it. (Even if it changes later.) I know exactly how and why my protagonists have a complete breakdown of communication over what the resolution to The Mystery means to their relationship. And I know roughly how (and very clearly where) they solve this breakdown. I don't think this will undermine the drive to get all the parts in between written. We still have to get through a lot of secret rituals, precipitous flights, attempted abductions, treasonous plots, courtly intrigue, and skulking villains.

Comments

[vnend.livejournal.com]

I would say that you had good reason to jump out of sequence.

I can sympathize; endings can be difficult. I can think of a few writers that I respect and enjoy reading who still screw up the ending from time to time (well, that, and its related problem child, pacing). And I have more than one partially written story that I have never finished because I do not like the ending I have, or simply cannot figure out a good one in the first place. So making sure one you like does not get lost is a big win.

Your absence was noted at Darkover more than once. Kathy Sabansky did a good job with Will and Emma on the poetry in fiction panel, but we all wondered what it would have been like and where it would have gone if you had been there.

The good news is that they had a great time, and eagerly look forward to managing a return trip as soon as their schedule allows it.

[hrj.livejournal.com]

I might have some surprising opinions on poetry in fiction. (Love to write it; hate to read it.) Sorry I missed it.

[xrian.livejournal.com]

Sounds like an absolutely delicious book.