The two books I have written so far( A Failure To Act & The Adventures Of a Mouse Called Meadow) were long-term projects. Both of which I have previously discussed. This, the third, feels like I am writing my first book. But with two already written, I need to make sure this one is better. If I don’t, then I may as well reserve a spot in front of the TV with the rest of the couch potatoes!
I heard about a series of online courses on BBC Maestro that covered a broad range of topics, drawn to the Authors area as several of their tutors were writing my genre. These talented people are offering to teach the skills they have carefully honed to allow others to benefit and grow. You would be crazy not to subscribe at $179. A bargain considering the quality of those presenting the courses on topics ranging from writing, cooking, drama and music to name a few.
Ok… So, I have just completed the course by Harlan Coben and am still digesting it as I write this. I will need to revisit the lessons to take everything in, as note taking is not my strong point. Having handwriting that resembles chicken scratchings doesn’t help either! It’s the reason I now type everything from the outset. By the time I have deciphered my handwriting, I’ve already rewritten the scene at least once. So typing everything may feel slower but, in fact, it’s faster in the big picture.
Harlan’s frankness on his way of working through the story and character development during the writing phase, along with tips and suggestions, was so informative. His editor and literary agent were included in specific lessons, discussing how they worked with him before, after and during the writing and publishing phases. They also brought some personal anecdotes about how they met and how long they had worked together. This was done in a relaxed and very informal setting, as were all his sessions.
You’re never sure if you are getting it right and it was empowering to hear Harlan say he did some things in a similar fashion to me. It helps keep the imposter syndrome at bay… Well, at least buried in the basement until I can concrete the floor.
Every so often during the lectures, I would have to stop and dive into my recent work and make changes or add a suggestion for investigation later. A great example of this was that I knew how my latest story would end and had it down in a very rough draft. But after finishing one lecture, I ended up writing two new scenes which made it so much better.
I have just begun listening to the Lee Child sessions, to see how another writer approaches his craft. Lee has a different approach and presentation style, and I am looking forward to what I can glean from his vast experience.
The one message that continues to come through is that nobody has all the answers. You don’t want to be a clone another author because you can only be you. If you try to replicate someone else, you’re setting yourself up to fail.
Learn, evaluate the data, apply any techniques that will enhance your writing, but be you. It is your story to tell. No one else can tell it the way you can. It needs the individual nuances that only you can write and not some veiled attempt at emulating someone else.
Well, that’s it for now. Back to the writing and listening to these great lectures.
Leave a Reply