From this point on, all that I say will be referenced from the previously stated novel, with the exception of a few personal statements here and there.
- Plot:
I know that the concept of plot has been drilled into me, perhaps too deep, so I was thrilled when I read a few authors' interpretations on it. One insightful writer stated something along the lines of the fact the plot can be viewed as the highway and the characters as automobiles. Another way to look at the plot was as a chauffeur. It was even said, and this still confuses me, that it is possible to never plot at all. In serious work, plot doesn't really matter as much; the author should focus on character development instead.
- Character Development
I am not really strong in this area. I spend so much time writing in first person because of this. As I was reading, however, I came across an exercise that I will do for every character probably. The basic concept is to conduct interviews with the characters or write diaries in their voices. Beautiful! Can you imagine what this will do?! Not only will I get to know my characters very well, but they will be developed on a much stronger scale than I ever could have hoped for.
I also learned that it takes time to give characters depth. First you have to give them the dimension you would give a photograph. Then, develop them into someone you would see in a video. Next their traits are revealed. Their traits can be brought out by showing how they react or interact with specific circumstances. The last dimension shown is just like the former only it is from a private persona and it includes the infamous "why?" that so many writers dread.
Another thing is that there is such a term as the "emotional framework" behind your character. There are a few ways to attain this such as realizing your character's greatest strength and weakness, giving your character specific goals, knowing how your characters will react, giving the character an inner conflict, and integrating your character well.
Some of this information overlaps, but that's a good sign that it's telling the truth.
Well, that's all my updating for today. I'll keep you posted on more tips for writing tomorrow!
Sadina, I'm going to be reading this and caring! It is safe to cite the editor rather than each individual writing...if you feel the need to cite correctly.
ReplyDeleteYou picked out terrific tips. I'm excited to see you put them into practice as you plan for your novella.
When you turn in your novella, maybe you can include all of the little writing assignments (character interviews, character sketches, etc) that you did to create the piece. It would be fun to have that background information for future reflection and examples...and I might want to steal a copy of your portfolio for future student examples. I'm not sure how you'd organize all of those pieces, though.
I'm thinking that if you don't finish your novella by the end of the tri, I'll still give you a score for your work up to that point, and then I can work with you in Tri 3...either with an Independent Study or outside of class.