Tomorrow I’m going to start a new novel. I’m very anxious about this because I’m approaching it differently from how I usually do.
I know the beginning and the end. But I don’t know the middle. Normally I never know the end. Only the beginning. So I guess I never know the middle. What makes me feel nervous about not knowing the middle is because I know the end. I see that now.
If I don’t know the end then I don’t think about the middle. There is no middle. I wish I didn’t know the end.
I have to approach this as though I don’t know the end and then see what happens.
Usually I write a novel with a particular discipline. Private Eye, Police Procedural, etc. So I know how to get to the end. That’s not true. I’ve written a number of novels that didn’t fall into any sub genre. I’m making too much of this.
Here’s the thing: I simply have to sit down here tomorrow and start. What could be so hard about that?
4 comments:
The two most terrifying words to type: Chapter One.
At least that's what I've always found.
So don't type Chapter One. Just type the first word. And the middle is a long way off. If you start it, it will come.
My goodness, I felt my stomach knotting as I read your words.
:(
I'll be thinking of you all day tomorrow and I expect a good report! :)
I won't tell you the two most terrifying words to me.
I too hate knowing the end before I begin! It takes the surprise out of it all...But maybe you only think you know the ending. Maybe your characters will say otherwise... ya know?
Hang in there!
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