There's something wonderful about a brand new project, whether it is writing, drawing or any other kind. In my case, it's a writing project, the novel I'm planning for Camp NaNoWriMo.
I can see it in my mind, every word perfect. The characters grow naturally and perfectly. They act like real people, with real emotions. The story will stay with readers long after they've closed the book. Everything is tinted with a golden glow.
That's how I imagine a new project.
Of course, I know that once I get into the writing, the characters will refuse to behave. They'll refuse to act properly, and they'll steer the plot off course. My writing won't do justice to the story in my mind, and I'll waffle, hunting for and missing the right words. The novel will become an almighty mess.
But, I still have that image in my mind, the goal I'll work for. And I'm excited to start writing, getting into the rocky regions of the first draft. Because I know, out the other side sits the perfect story, surrounded by it's golden glow, and that's what I'll work towards.
How do you feel when starting a new project of any kind, not just writing?
When I start a new project, usually a drawing, I have a vision in my head of the perfect picture, where everything is proportioned correctly, all the shading is correct, etc. etc.
ReplyDeleteOf course, it never turns out perfect. There's always something wrong with it, but it's always good fun trying.
Basically, I get a shiny, happy feeling when I start a project (on anything).
I have exactly the same thing with my drawings (having never completely finished editing a novel). I start out with a perfect picture in mind, and get one that's not quite so good, but still ok. I guess the fun of starting something new is that happy, shiny feeling.
DeleteI know how you feel. Writing a new book is always exciting, even if, deep down, you know you're new characters are rubbing their hands behind your back and saying, "Just wait till she sees what WE have in mind for this book!" I think it makes writing all the more worth it.
ReplyDeleteHaving the characters plotting behind your back is actually so exciting. Sometimes they're plans are worth the extra trouble...and sometimes they're not. But it is always so exciting, isn't it?
DeleteIt sounds as though you are a natural story teller, Immy. Do you have any plans to become a professional writer, at all? Have you thought about turning some of your past work into ebooks? I'd love to read them!
ReplyDeleteGood luck with your new project.
God bless:-)
I have thought about writing professionally, and I know that I'd love to be able to do it. If I finish something worth reading, I might try getting it published, or publishing something myself. At any rate, I'm sure to finish something for you to read.
DeleteHuzzah to that!
ReplyDeleteIt's always good to have a goal in mind, but it's also important to be flexible with it. Having a basic plot and an idea of where you're going with the story is fabulous, yet sometimes the characters surprise you in ways you never thought of - but that greatly improve the overall story. :) Best of luck with the new WIP, Imogen! It might not turn out exactly how you plan, but I'm sure it'll be great regardless. :) Hugs!
I actually really like it when the characters plan unusual things. It means that they're doing what they should be, and that I've worked them out right. You're so right, being flexible is very important, a fact I am never allowed to forget, wicked characters!
DeleteI agree; it's such fun when your characters develop themselves! It always makes me feel like I'm growing as a writer, if I can create characters with enough depth to call the shots. ;)
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