Welcome to the eighth installment of the How I Write series, brainchild of Ansha Kotyk. A group of writers are writing about how we write – scheduled for Wednesdays through August. Please check back weekly. And click here for the list of all the writers participating and links to their blogs.
This week, we're delving deeper into Revision - first pass, resources, critique groups. We've talked about writing a first draft and revising it--how do we delve deeper into revisions?
I'm sure my colleagues will have more comprehensive strategies for deep revision--I'm still making my way through the journey of novel writing and I'm still figuring this thing out. I've got a shelf full of craft books -- some that I love, some that haven't helped so much.
These are my favorites:
1. Writing the Breakout Novel by Donald Maass
2.The Writer's Journey by Christopher Vogler
3. Plot and Structure by James Scott Bell
4. Novel Metamorphosis by Darcy Pattison
Better than all the books in my library are the ladies in my critique group--my cheer leading team, my writing partners, my task force, my confidantes, my beta readers. If you don't have a critique group or partner--do whatever you can to get one. Check on absolutewrite.com, or Verla Kay's "blue board"--lots of people advertise for critique partners.
These friends are responsible for the major revisions and breakthroughs I've had on my novel this past year. ::hugs:: to Ansha, Laura, and Jennifer.
Other great resources? Agent blogs (see my sidebar for helpful links), Querytracker, VerlaKay.com, and countless author blogs and websites. Browse, google -- you've got to find what works for you.
I firmly believe that writing is a craft--one that you can practice and improve. We should always keep learning from our peers, our mentors, our partners, and professionals in the field. They make us work harder and get better all the time.
3 comments:
You're welcome dear critique partner. :) You've helped me tons too. Regarding critique groups I've tried out a bunch of groups and individuals before finding you guys. 3 years worth. You guys rock!
Yay, critique partners!! And it's true, you have to often try a few before you find the right fit. It does seem like you all work together. That fitting process demystifies finding agents and editors a bit. Or maybe it just makes it seem more hopeful?
A--You double rock! I had two crit groups before you guys and I didn't have the same experience w/ them at all.
Tina -- I think you're right. And you know people who understand what you're going through--and can listen to your rants...not that I rant. :)
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