With my query almost written (two lines to go) and my novel almost polished (one more round), I'm thinking about my next project.
I'm collecting ideas for the plot I sketched out back in March, when I thought I'd soon be finished revising Novel #4.
I'm free-writing thoughts from the perspectives of a couple of the main characters in the "new" book (it's actually a rewrite of Novel #3).
I'm taking another look at the first draft pitch and query I wrote (also back in March) to get thinking about the story again.
I love the part before I begin writing, because the idea of the project is so exciting. Right up until the moment where I start the actual writing, when a few anxieties creep in about whether it's the right place to start. You'd think I'd know by now that where I start doesn't really matter, because it's going to change when I revise.
How much time do you spend thinking about your book before you begin? Does the idea of putting those first words down make you nervous?
I spend about a couple months plotting, planning, molding, and prewriting before I"m ready to start writing the first draft. :) Best of luck! What a fun stage.
ReplyDeleteI love this same stage as well. I haven't made any mistakes, or written myself out of the story yet. I spend a lot of time thinking about my characters, the problem, how they are going to succeed, etc. before I ever start writing. I like to make character lists so I know exactly who is involved in the manuscript and I like to tie them together (that silly Kevin Bacon game, 6 degrees of separation) - I need to know how they all fit together. Once I start writing, the words usually flow out. If not, I need to spend more time or go in another direction.
ReplyDeleteHappy new project!
I love this stage. Usually the book has been in the back of mind for several months. My next book is like that.
ReplyDeleteIronically, though once I start drafting, it morphs into something different -- usually better!
Good luck! :)
I love beginning the writing. It fuels my excitement to keep going.
ReplyDeleteIt's true that the project has been on my mind for a long time, and that's why it's so exciting to actually get working with it.
ReplyDeleteKaren, mine usually changes a lot too...though there are points when I really have to wonder if the changes are better than what I'd planned!