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| http://alexjcavanaugh.blogspot.com/p/the-insecure-writers-support-group.html |
I am currently in the research phase of two different historical fiction novels, and I am eager to do the actual writing, instead of just research. But research is essential and must be done.
My problem: Novel A is the one most research-ready at this point, but Novel B has the character who is calling to me. I hate to put that character on hold while I write another entire novel. She might not be so ready for me when I get back. But I can’t really write her story until I do more research.
Have you ever dealt with a problem like this? Or are you the kind of writer who never works on two projects at the same time? I admit that sounds like the wiser way to proceed, but when the Muse drops an idea (or two) into my head, I have to grab hold.
Novel A is semi-autobiographical and I’ve been toying with it for more than ten years. I have written four or five first chapters for it (all very different), but have not moved further with it. Why have I not yet written that novel? Is there more than the character from Novel B holding me back? Is there something within me that makes me afraid to tell a story that is so much a part of me? Or do I find a character who is part me not interesting enough to follow through with?
I have written one first chapter for Novel B. I like it better than any of my first chapters for Novel A. Is that why I’m more drawn to this story? Or do I like that first chapter more because this is the story I’d rather write?
These are questions I don’t have answers for. Maybe I’ll work on Project C while I decide.
Good luck deciding. Maybe start writing one while you research the other if you have time for both. At least you have tons of ideas.
ReplyDeleteFate took the decision from my hands. An editor requested a revision of a past book, so now that's my current project. However, when I finish those revisions, I'll be back in the same place I was when I posed these questions. Thanks for your comment, Natalie.
DeleteCan't help you--sorry! I have little bits and pieces in my brain of other books, but feeling pretty OCD about finishing the one that I've been laboring on for years!
ReplyDeleteI've been in that spot before, Carol. Jot down those "bits & pieces" while they're in your mind, then focus on the WIP. When you finish one project, it can be hard to move forward with a new one, & I find it helpful to have a few notes jotted down to kick-start the next work. Good luck!
DeleteI hope you find your way soon. I like to write a Plus/Minus list when I'm having a difficult time making a decision. Happy IWSG Day!
ReplyDeleteThat's a good idea. Thanks.
DeleteI know many, many writers who work on multipl projects at once. I think it can be caotic but also really productive in a frenzied sort-of way. I say write what you feel like writing. If a muse is calling you go with a certain character then go with her and worry about filling in the historical deails later. If a story is driving you crazy then take a break from it and work on another one.
ReplyDeleteIt's sort of a haphazard way to proceed, but a lot of writers write that way. And the creative process is so crazy anyway, there's losts of room to go in different directions. Just write- you'll find you way.
Thanks for participating in IWSG!
Bev
(October IWSG co-host)
Thanks for your vote of confidence. I appreciate it.
DeleteYou have to go with A! Watch this... http://mashable.com/2013/10/04/ricky-gervais-greatest-writing-lesson/
ReplyDeleteThanks, Juliet. Have I ever told you what a blessing you are in my life?
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