In Control

"Start early and work hard. A writer's apprenticeship usually involves writing a million words (which are then discarded) before he's almost ready to begin. That takes a while." - David Eddings

I'm working through a new WIP idea and I'm taking it step by step for a change. Usually, I get an idea, a couple characters and start writing.

This has had the ultimate result of LOTS of editing required. UGH. Also, there were times when I had no clue where I was going or what came next, and I wasted precious writing time staring off into space trying to figure out what might work.

I'm excited about taking the time to really, thoroughly brainstorm all aspects of this story. I decided to do that because this one is a mystery and will require appropriate clues to be dropped throughout and information to be given to the reader strategically. Also, I really felt like I needed to know what happens all the way through in order to make everything make sense. I hate reading a mystery where something feels like it's significant in some way (long descriptions of a place or object) and then they're never mentioned again. Conversely, I hate reading a mystery where I, as the reader, am not given the tools I need to solve the story myself. I don't expect it to be easy, but I do expect it to be possible.

I'm working with one other writer (it was supposed to be two but one who shall remain nameless - by rhymes with Trudy, and you know who you are - hasn't shown up to play yet) and we've worked through our hero, heroine and antagonist and are moving into the crimes scene(s) and setting next. It's exciting.

I never thought I would ever call plotting and planning exciting. But seriously, if you've never done it and always swore that you're a "pantser" I highly recommend giving it a try. You'll be glad you did.