“write with a question in mind, not an answer.” feels like a summary of the creative process. I do not always know how my story will end, or if a chapter that I am writing will end up like I drafted it. To start to write is to ask "what will this become?" not to have an answer ready to be delivered.
Writing with a question in mind is such a great way to be purposeful about what you write. I am 78% done my manuscript and have NOT written with a question in mind (except sometimes 'what happens to her next?'), but I am totally adding that to my list of things to do in revision. What a great litmus test for theme and tone! Thank you!
Excellent advice--write with a question in mind. But now, I'm thinking more and more of a publishing medium that I can "control", like Amazon. No ups and downs? Is there an author, out there, who has been successful on that medium?
I think every medium brings its challenges Marie. I've trad published and published on Amazon, and getting the world out is the key goal whether it's with trad publishing support or through advertising. What works one year doesn't work the next either so it's a matter of constantly monitoring your efforts and adjusting as you go. Wishing you every success.
"giving ourselves permission to write" yes, why is that so difficult! As a new and unpublished writer I often find that my writing time has to go in favour of my day job or other things, because "it's a hobby" so there's often a feeling of guilt when I'm doing it.
Thank you for inviting me to chat with you and your readers, Alyssa! It's been fab.
“write with a question in mind, not an answer.” feels like a summary of the creative process. I do not always know how my story will end, or if a chapter that I am writing will end up like I drafted it. To start to write is to ask "what will this become?" not to have an answer ready to be delivered.
I feel this way too Lars - my stories evolve a lot as I'm working on them.
Love that idea — my creative process definitely works best when I’m exploring questions rather than forcing answers. Happy writing!
Good reminder that dedication to craft is key. Monetary goals lose their lustre as soon as they are achieved
Absolutely agree.
Totally!!
Writing with a question in mind is such a great way to be purposeful about what you write. I am 78% done my manuscript and have NOT written with a question in mind (except sometimes 'what happens to her next?'), but I am totally adding that to my list of things to do in revision. What a great litmus test for theme and tone! Thank you!
So glad this was useful!
Excellent advice--write with a question in mind. But now, I'm thinking more and more of a publishing medium that I can "control", like Amazon. No ups and downs? Is there an author, out there, who has been successful on that medium?
I think every medium brings its challenges Marie. I've trad published and published on Amazon, and getting the world out is the key goal whether it's with trad publishing support or through advertising. What works one year doesn't work the next either so it's a matter of constantly monitoring your efforts and adjusting as you go. Wishing you every success.
"giving ourselves permission to write" yes, why is that so difficult! As a new and unpublished writer I often find that my writing time has to go in favour of my day job or other things, because "it's a hobby" so there's often a feeling of guilt when I'm doing it.