The Process

[bloodyrosemccoy]

I think I’m starting to figure out a pattern that accommodates my writing style. It goes like this:

Step 1: Have moderately interesting idea.*
Step 2: Attempt to flesh out idea in head. Come up with moderately interesting scene.
Step 3: Write scene.
Step 4: Edit scene.
Step 5: Have a spectacular idea for how to make the scene phenomenally interesting, adding conflict, action, character development, and milieu in a fabulous convergence of style and substance.
Step 6: Look mournfully at boring but already-written version of scene.
Step 7: Say “goddamn,” make a cup of tea, and stare at the wall for the rest of the day.

Now I just need to work out a Step 8, and I’ll be on my way to getting an interesting story out!

*Slightly Tangential Step 1.5: Discover that Poul Anderson already had that idea.
Step 1.5.1: Decide to go on anyway and apply my own unique vision.

Comments

[padparadscha.livejournal.com]

I tend to do the Wikipedia Vision Quest between Steps 2 and 3.

Sometimes 2 and 3 are DAYS apart.