How I Write - Idea Creation

HOW I WRITE is a blog series where writers of different genres discuss how they go about the business of writing a book.  Like snowflakes, writers are unique and we have unique ways to produce our creative product, our books. So walk with us, learn from us, and help us become better writers in the process.

Simply click here for to link to our contributing writers!  If you would like contribute to the blog series just email Ansha Kotyk.  Happy Writing!

When Ansha asked me to participate in this blog series, I jumped at the chance. And then I saw the list of topics. *Panic*  Not really, but sort of.  Only because I haven't ever really thought about how I write.  I just write.

But pen in hand…or rather hands on keyboard, I decided it would be interesting to think about it. So, thank you Ansha for making me consider my writing. First off for the series: Idea Creation.

This should be easy. 

Right.

Here goes. 

Thus far, my creative writing has been inspired by my family and real life events.  My WIP is a realistic contemporary YA novel w/ a touch of romance. Almost everything that happens to my protagonist is fictional; but her emotions, family life, and environment are inspired by my own teen years during which my parents owned and managed a small golf course in Massachusetts.   Clearly, "write what you know" came into play here.

Earlier WIPs were picture book manuscripts, completely inspired by my daughter as a toddler--things she said, things she did, things she liked.

So idea creation for me comes from my life. 

I try to listen to people. I'm not good at keeping notes, but I need to get there. I have a number of ideas “in the hopper” inspired by phrases I’ve overheard or things I’ve witnessed.  I think you can find inspiration around you every day.  For example, last week, I saw three full-grown swans in my town lake.  They were elegant and beautiful and perfect. And while I can’t imagine a circumstance where I’d write a story about swans, I can certainly imagine a scenario where my main characters witness the same scene I did that day.  However, the swans might be fodder for the imagination of someone who writes fairy tales.

In other words, the ideas are there – you just have to know where to look. Or rather see them, when you see them. And use them to your advantage.  Grab a notebook and start jotting down those  ideas.

Of course, it is easier said than done.  I need to start a new WIP.  And I don’t know where to start.  Maybe I should take my own advice. *wink*

Link to other blogs participating in the How I Write blog series.