Budding Author

[IanL]

Just a quickie. On the old bulletin board, someone was asking for hints on how to get started writing a book they'd had an idea for. I posted a reply, just wondered if it was of any use. Ring a bell, anyone. It was about a week or so ago

[Quail]

I remember the post, it was two friends trying to write a book, but i don't remember the name.

[This message has been edited by Quail (edited 11-10-1999).]

[IanL]

Cheers, Quail. Well at least I know now I didn't imagine it.

[ShadoeWolfe]

Here's the complete Thread - don't expect this all the time, I just haven't taken the old Board completely down yet...

11/04/99 - 07:09:16

Posted By: Krynus
Subject:How do ya get rid of writer's block?
Message:
I need some help.

My buddy & I came up with a killer story, kind of dark fantasy, complete with dragons, wizards, vampires, sex, and everything else. We pretty much have the main jist of the story figured out, but we just can't seem to begin the actual writing. Can someone give me a good kick in the ass or something?

11/05/99 - 08:33:52
Posted By:IanL
Subject:Budding Author
Message: I tried to write a novel myself a couple of years back, before work got in the way. I got 80 pages into it and that included a lot of re-writes. What I would suggest is to block out a period of time every day where you just write. Maybe an hour when you wake up before getting out of bed (when I'm still sleepy my mind is at its most open) or the hour before going to sleep. Also, if you really want to get started, do what I did. Picture your book-to-be as a film...see the events you want taking place on screen and write what you see. Take into account what things keep you interested in a film. This should give you some meat and bones. Put pen immediately to paper, especially if inspiration strikes. As to plot, either plan it all before you start or work it out as you go along. I've done a little of both.

Meanwhile get the writer's handbook (is that what it's called?)from a bookshop, for addresses of publishers and a multitude of little tips. Most important of all, don't let real life get in the way...keep going. I just got depressed when a dozen publishers didn't want to pay me a fat advance for my 80 pages of book, and I've not done a thing since. I'll be back, though!!!

Good luck!! and remember me when you get there.

[This message has been edited by ShadoeWolfe (edited 11-11-1999).]

[IanL]

Cheers ShadoeWolfe - I just hope it was of some use to them