Procrastination Station

21 May 2010 | Filed Under Countdown 

Here are the top five reasons authors use to stall working on their novel.

5. “I can’t think what to write next.”
The ever-present writer’s block, bane to every author’s existence. How many times have we delayed writing, or even given up on a story, because we weren’t “in the mood?”

4. “This is crappy writing, no one will ever read this.”
Of course it’s crappy, it’s a first draft. It’s only on the second draft that you’ll improve the writing. Don’t give up because you’re dejected and giving too much attention to your inner editor.

3. “The characters are flat and not likable.”
Probably. Figure out why, and fix the stupid problem. If they’re flat, give them faults. Nobody likes a Mary Sue. If they’re not likable, find a way to make us care about them. [insert puppies here]

2. “This plot isn’t going anywhere.”
So jazz it up. The popular method is to kill someone, but there are way less drastic ways to spice up the action. Introduce a new character, force your MC to face their fears, etc. “Internal conflict” is the new “plot-driven” novel.

And the number one reason authors stall writing their novel?

1. “But this idea is so much better!”
Do NOT chase that plot bunny! Stick with the one you have, through better or worse, and enjoy the ride.

What reasons do you use to stall your writing?

Comments

Leave a Reply




  • Welcome

    new haircut

    Hi, I'm Jenn, new grad student and old YA fantasy writer. I've long dreamed of being a novelist, and I bet you have too. I hope you find my blog helpful, inspiring, and maybe just a little bit fun. (But not too much fun. Writing is serious business, you know.)

    You can follow me on Twitter or Facebook, or email me at:
    jennifer.a.johnson7 at gmail dot com

  • Official Progress


    4/21 segments

    A narrator hijacks a cliche fantasy story, much to the chagrin of its characters.

    Status: Second revision



    1,639/70,000 words
    A young noblewoman with strange powers must choose: her king or her soul.

    Status: First draft



    1,087/70,000 words
    When a girl's heart is stolen, she's plunged into a world of magic and shadows - but can she get her heart back before she loses it completely?

    Status: First draft





  • All writing, unless otherwise specified, is the property of
    Jennifer Johnson © 2010