In a previous post, I stated my intention to blog my writing journey. To tell you the truth, it's been so long, I'm out of the habit. I'm not even sure if anyone reads blogs anymore. I may only be talking to myself, but I'm going to try.
As you know, I published my second book in early February. After that, I took a break for the rest of the month. Then I started my newest work in progress on March 1st. Happy to say, I'm almost at the 23,000 word mark. I even worked up a trial cover, and here it is.
I'm happy with my output so far, but the writing hasn't been without its trials. For two horrible days, I came to a complete halt and decided I couldn't make the hero's conflict work. Couldn't resolve it. He's an outlaw, after all. So I had to really dig in and think about it. I decided his motivation was solid. I even absolved him morally. The only sticking point--and it was a big one, to me--was his standing in the eyes of the law. I wanted him to be legally absolved in the end, but there's no way to make it happen without sending him to jail. And that wouldn't make for a very happy ending, would it?
Anyway, for two days, gloom and despair. I was 20,000 words in. I tried to think of a different plot setup that would turn him into a victim rather than a criminal, but it became so convoluted and unbelievable, I ended up scrapping the idea. I decided I just had to continue and go with my initial gut feeling about the story. So, that's where I am at the moment.
In other news, I also started another manuscript. I know, I know. We're not supposed to work on two stories at the same time. But the idea came to me and I just had to start writing it down. Or lose it. I can't tell you how many times that's happened. So far, so good, but the title is driving me bonkers. I don't have one because the original title I came up with--the one that fit so perfectly--has been used at least a dozen times in recent years. So I'm working on a manuscript that's untitled and that's never happened before.
More later...
Happy reading and writing,
Devon
Devon, I don't blame you for starting a second manuscript. Like you, if I don't put something down, I lose it. Good luck with your other WIP. Sometimes it helps to let it rest for a couple days, but not too long. I've always felt the best way was to write through it. You can always go back and make changes to the first draft. Good luck!
ReplyDeleteThanks, Michael. I'm not actively working on the 2nd ms. just yet. I wrote the bare bones of what was in my head and left it there. I'm proceeding with the first story, and hoping I don't end up with a complete mess. My usual process is to edit and fine-tune as I go, but I'm not doing that this time. I'm just writing. Thanks for stopping by!
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