Opinions are like Assholes, Everyone has one
Why the title? In the workshops I’ve attended and through various other sources I’ve been told how to write. Hence, everyone has an opinion. I’ve learned while writing that there are all kinds of ways to write a book: plotters, seat of the pantsers, thinkers, constant editors, drafters, etc. It’s okay when they tell you that you need to learn your own style. What works for them may not work for you. I hate when others say that you need to do it there way or you won’t be successful. Well, I’ve just found my style as a writer. It’s a combination of all the above. I know writers that mirror each of the above descriptions and they are all a success. Well, I’ve found that I can’t just dump a manuscript. I have to think about where I’m going (outline), and then when I’m in the moment I have to edit. None of it is bad. It’s me. If I can part some words of wisdom, always be proud of your style. Never feel bad when someone asks you why you’re not finished, why don’t you just dump the whole book at once and you should be on your next book, or you shouldn’t plot so much. Know, you’re exactly where you should be with your book and that you’re wonderful. You’ll finish your book when it’s right for you. Style is as individual as your book voice. Have fun, laugh lot’s and know that others have experience but you know what’s right for you.
Isabella
December 1st, 2006 at 9:55 am
Great post. Couldn’t have come at a better time for me. Brought a tear to my eyes. And I mean that in a good way.
Bev
December 1st, 2006 at 3:46 pm
OMG Isabella!!! This is one of my total pet peeves! I HATE it when someone tells you they have the ONLY right way to do it. My answer to that is always something I wouldn’t say in front of my 12-year-old!! Well done, girl! Thanks for vocalizing one of my hottest recent rants!
Tina Gerow
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December 1st, 2006 at 8:54 pm
I remember when I first heard about “scene and sequel”. I plotted an entire book and the outline looked wonderful. Sounded wonderful. But in my case, I discovered I was bored when I knew what happened. It keeps me writing when I want to find out what’s happening with my story, because I don’t have a clue. I’m a total pantser and there I’ve said it! My characters write the story…they let me hang around to help with the technical stuff!
Sweet, laugh-out-loud fun,
Judy Thoman
Thoroughly Mannerly Millicent – Avalon – Spring of 2007
December 4th, 2006 at 8:04 pm
I love your point! You are soooo right!
Cole
December 7th, 2006 at 1:57 pm
What a good post! I rarely give workshops on craft because I learned the hard way that you have to do what works for you, and there’s no way to “teach” that. You learn it by teaching yourself.
I remember trying so hard to do the GMC method, coming up with a great outline, then started writing and the book totally sucked. Went back to “my” way and it was fine.
So I stick to giving career workshops! Easier to teach someone how to sell a book than write one, LOL.