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Q: SD, I had tried
your suggestion about character listing and it was a disaster.
I had to stop myself
from writing an entire book about everything that is, was, and will be
concerning a single character and hadn’t started writing the first chapter. How
much information should I write for each character and how much is too much?
A: I am both flattered and shock to read that you think
this is a disaster. If you have nearly written an entire book on this one
character, that tells me you have a serious investment that this one particular
character has a full and rich background so your readers can see their
importance in your story. As for the other characters (hoping this first one is
the main character), their part to play in your story should have enough
background to understand the reason for them, the purpose for them, and where they
have importance to the main character. I wish I could take credit (and blame)
for the amount of material you have to use for your manuscript, but I cannot. I
do hope you will appreciate all that you have inside that had come from you and
will enrich your work to be recognized as something special. I only see good
things from work driven by your heart. SD
Q: SD, Is it easier
to do an outline of your story first or know where it begins and where it ends
and hope for the best for what’s in the middle?
A: knowing how it
ends and how it will begin has some importance. Doing and outline of your story
has some importance. I don’t see why you can’t do a little bit of both. Compose
the begging and the end, then make the roadmap from the starting line to the end
of the race. This may even help you jump to different milestone moments in your
story and then move backwards and forwards to make adjustments to enhance or
play down pivotal events to sharpen the timing, emotion, and importance. There
is no singular way to write. What is most important is that you write. I hope
this helps. SD
Q: SD, Is it hard
for you to start some days, but easier on others?
A: Yes. Although, my
ability to write grows with each effort, having something to say is a matter
entirely different. I’ve mentioned my box trick (what would this Ask SD be without one of my shameless plugs).
However, even with this helpful tip, some days it’s hard to get that RIGHT side of the brain in gear. Some
days, more than others, are meant to just give it a break and step away and
kiss the dog than scratch that loved one behind her ear. Hey, don’t knock it if
you haven’t tried it. Just make sure you don’t blame me nine months later.
Sometimes, in order to move forward you have to take a few steps back. And
sometimes, to work at your best, you have to surrender when at your worst. Take
a break and go for a walk. I’m sure both sides of your brain will enjoy the respite.
SD
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