For those of you unfamiliar with NaNoWriMo, here's the summary: 30 days, 50k. The slightly longer version: In the month of November, participants attempt to write 50,000 words of a new novel. Rules are somewhat flexible on the definition of novel, but the main point is that this should be a NEW project. You are absolutely forbidden to use any prose written before November.
Obviously, I'm not the NaNo police; however you define "new" or "novel" or "50k" or for that matter "30 days" is up to you and I won't argue (though you may consult the official site, if you would like). The goal, however, remains the same: CHALLENGE YOURSELF. Present yourself with a goal that is such a push that it forces you to think differently. 50k in 30 days is designed to push writers beyond their hangups and desire to get it perfect. NaNo is about getting it on paper (or computer); editing comes later.
In addition to this blog, Nyeusigrube hosts a NaNo forum every year, featuring daily "rant" posts. Please feel free to join us! Even if you don't plan to spend the month writing, you can spend it supporting the writers.
That said... welcome to NaNoWriMo!
"The scariest moment is always just before you start." – Stephen King
"You can fix anything but a blank page." – Nora Roberts
Tip of the Day:
Write!
No, seriously, that is the tip. You're past pre-planning now. Your only goal at this point is to put words on paper. Don't worry about starting it right or even starting it good. I frequently go back and delete my entire first chapter, once I start revising. Start rambling, and it becomes like a conversation: eventually, you'll find something to talk about.
And in case you need some extra motivation, you might check out Dr. Wicked's "Write or Die." I adore this gadget, especially during NaNoWriMo. I love it enough I spent the $10 to have the desktop version, which is not internet dependent and has more options, but there is a free version along the right side of the page I linked you to.
Prompt of the Day:
Look out the window - what do you (does your character) see?
or
If you're already procrastinating by watching television,
then wait for a car commercial (or something similar) to come on.
Use the setting (rugged mountain, ice-covered tundra, city streets?), characters (family of five, guys on vacation, business man?), and/or conflict (flat tire, lost, kids driving them crazy?) from that commercial for your first scene.
"You can fix anything but a blank page." – Nora Roberts
Tip of the Day:
Write!
No, seriously, that is the tip. You're past pre-planning now. Your only goal at this point is to put words on paper. Don't worry about starting it right or even starting it good. I frequently go back and delete my entire first chapter, once I start revising. Start rambling, and it becomes like a conversation: eventually, you'll find something to talk about.
And in case you need some extra motivation, you might check out Dr. Wicked's "Write or Die." I adore this gadget, especially during NaNoWriMo. I love it enough I spent the $10 to have the desktop version, which is not internet dependent and has more options, but there is a free version along the right side of the page I linked you to.
Prompt of the Day:
Look out the window - what do you (does your character) see?
or
If you're already procrastinating by watching television,
then wait for a car commercial (or something similar) to come on.
Use the setting (rugged mountain, ice-covered tundra, city streets?), characters (family of five, guys on vacation, business man?), and/or conflict (flat tire, lost, kids driving them crazy?) from that commercial for your first scene.
No comments:
Post a Comment