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So I had several mini realizations this week. One being that I've gotten out of the habit of writing. Meaning I'm not taking my set time in the evening and pounding out the words every night. No wonder my novel is not getting where it needs to go.
The second is that I need someone who will read my book and look at the story and tell me how to make it tighter. Specifically. I can't afford an editor. So I'm wondering what to do. I've thought about a manuscript exchange, but it's hard because I have to trust the person. By trust I mean respect their opinion and judgement calls. It's a difficult thing to do.
My husband got me three books on writing--well they are more focused on the revision part of writing. You know the fun stuff that I just don't get. So I'm excited to read them.
I've also been thinking about the difference between being a slow bleeder, and writing out as fast you can. I've never been a slow bleeder, but I've never been much of an editor either. I think that is why I'm struggling so much with this phase of the novel writing process. I know that the book can be stronger--I am just having a hard time figuring out how to get it there.
Finally do you have any tips on what to where to a writer's conference? I want to go professional--but I want the right balance of professional and not overstated. Any ideas on what to wear and where to shop?
Thanks!
4 comments:
Have you read the book The First Five Pages by Noah Lukeman. I found it really helped me. I know what you mean about getting someone to read your book that you trust. My family all think the book is wonderful. I need a more constructive eye. Good luck.
Just curious--do you write YA fiction? Or am I thinking of someone else? I completely agree that finding a critique partner will help, particularly someone who is either already a published author or someone who is close to same stage you're at and has written for while. Oddly enough I found a critique partner through a mothers meetup (Meetup.com) sight but only after I already had a contact. She is still very helpful, especially because I've gone over some of my manuscripts so many times I can not see them objectively anymore. Do some research if you have time, see if you can find someone else in your same position and perhaps over time you can develop enough of a rapport with them you may be able to trust doing a manuscript exchange with them. Hope that helps!
Thanks for your comments.
Patti--My husband just got me The First Five Pages for my birthday, so I am planning on reading it soon. Thanks for the suggestion.
Cindy--I do write young adult. I have some people who have read my manuscript, but they haven't been able to give any concrete advice. I'm going to keep looking. Thanks!
What to wear? I'd go business casual. Have you ever shopped at Anne Taylor? It's pricey, so I stick to the clearance racks. Love Anne Taylor. I bet you find someone at the writer's conference to do an MS trade with, but maybe you don't want to wait that long...
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