(no subject)

[terrypurple73]

My Fiction Writers' Group met yesterday, and I left there flying high. I finally brought something to share, and the feedback was so good. They gave me real insight on how to bring out the best story I can, how to make my characters' voices really shine, and questions to think about. I was so nervous (I've been nervously thinking about sharing this new piece for a month now), and it went really well. One of the girls gave me a compliment that totally reframed my insecurities. I always start stories and have these characters who I love, but I never bring the plot anywhere past introductions. I always see it as a bad trait, the fact that I never finish what I start. Nancy complimented me on how well I find the voice of the narrator, how easy it is to be drawn in by the confidence I bring to my characters. It spun my negativity around, and I was thrilled that instead of being bad at plots, I was great at voice. So I'm feeling really confident about my writing today- I'm still flying high.

Comments

[readfreeordont.livejournal.com]

Cn u write my bk r me? I r bad @ characters gr8 @ plots kthnxbye!!!

Seriously, I lay out plots and themes pretty meticulously but then totally fail at creating supporting casts. RUGH.

Also we can be writing buddies because today is totally the day I re-start my book. I WROTE THIS ON MY CALENDAR. "Chapter 1 start". Yeah. We'll see.

[terrypurple73.livejournal.com]

I thought that joining a writers' group would give me the kick-in-the-ass to start writing more consistently. You know, hold me accountable to bringing something at least every other meeting. But these people are so darn nice that they don't yell or make me feel bad when I don't bring things. Wait, does it sound like I'm complaining about nice people? I promise I'm not.
So tell me what happens to the gay teenage girl in Iowa! I want to know her plotline!

[readfreeordont.livejournal.com]

Well, what are you personally trying to say through Gay Teenage Iowan Girl?

[katydidsmile.livejournal.com]

I'm so proud of you wife!!! I've never been any good at developing plots- so I don't think I'll be much help, but I do love to read and ask questions if you ever want to share. God knows I need a break from reading about the economics of social welfare and organizing in the 90's! I would have to agree that your self-interest as a writer is an important aspect of forming a plot. Is there something that you want to teach your readers that they could learn through your character... something that she will learn that will teach them in the process? love you lots.