The leaves are changing in the northeast and there’s a chill in the air. It can only mean one thing: You are about to devote yourself to the greatest writing fest ever scheduled during a month when you are also supposed to spend time with loved ones and eat turkey.
Yes indeed, National Novel Writing Month is nearly upon us once again! Are you going for it? Are you? Are you doing it? Do you hear the pestering in my voice?
Whether you are a first-timer or a veteran, the best advice I have to give you is in the pages of How to Write a Novel: 47 Rules for Writing a Stupendously Awesome Novel You Will Love Forever. Not only does it have all the tips and organization you need to write the best novel you possibly can, its bright orange cover doubles as a seasonal-appropriate piece of flair for your coffee table.
If you prefer your advice in blog form, I aim to please. Here’s a selection of links for new novelists and veterans alike:
For first-timers:
- How to choose an idea for a novel
- How to get started writing a novel
- How to find a writing style that works for you
- How to craft a great voice
- Do you have a plot?
- All about conflict
- What makes a great setting
For veterans:
- How to return to writing after a long break
- Sometimes the boring idea is best
- How to flesh out a character
- Seven keys to writing good dialogue
- Reversals in novels and movies
- Writing vs. storytelling
I've never participated in NaNoWriMo, but I'd like to for one particular reason: to develop a habit of writing daily. I write weekly, at least three to four times a week, but I can't seem to carve out time daily to write. NaNoWritMo is so tempting to try for that reason. I'm hoping maybe it will help me kick the "I have to watch my show" habit. Anyway, good luck to everyone who is participating this year! I'm still thinking about it…
What do you call it when you are using October to get the first draft done so you can use NaNoWriMo to get the 2nd draft done? Is that a thing? Maybe I should start a meetup.
@abc
I think the whole point of Nanowrimo is just to be productive and get something done. If that's what it's going to take for you to get your second draft done, I don't see why you shouldn't participate. It's all about not overthinking yourself out of completion and getting it done!
Perfection is the enemy of greatness!
xo, N
http://www.natashasolae.com