As we begin a new year, I am also beginning a new novel. Over decades of writing novels, I have learned many things I want to remember as I embark on the journey again. I thought I’d share a few of them with you.
1. Put a piece of yourself in every character you create.
By doing this, your character will feel more real to you. The character must feel real to you before you can make him or her come alive on the page and feel real for your reader.
2. Use your senses.
Help your reader to feel a part of every scene you create by describing its sights, its sounds, its smells, and its feels. The sense of taste isn’t frequently called for, so I replace this fifth sense with a second kind of “feel.” Not only do I describe the textures and sensations the character feels, but also the way the scene makes him or her feel emotionally.
3. Specifics bring reality.
Be specific wherever you can. Don’t write about “trees or flowers;” write about “hickories and birches or daisies and tulips.” Boots, sandals, moccasins, or crocs make a story more believable than merely saying “shoes.”
4. Open your mind, but trust your gut.
If you belong to a critique group or have beta readers who read your early drafts, accept the comments you receive with an open mind. Listen to what readers say and take what suggestions you can. In the end, trust your gut. If a comment doesn’t work for the story you are trying to tell, remember it’s your story.
5. See revision as an opportunity.
Some writers think of going over what they’ve written dozens, even hundreds, of times as a horrendous chore. I try to think of it as an opportunity to make what I’ve written better, and I want the final product to be the best I can make it.
6. Love the process.
If I’m going to go over a project through many revisions and live with a group of characters for what turns out to be years, I’d better love the process. It’s the only way to stick with it and live with the outcome if a publisher doesn’t think it’s ready for publication.
7. Don’t forget the heart.
When I enjoy a book, it’s because I feel an emotional bond to the characters. As a reader, I want a book to tug at my heartstrings. As a writer, I want to make sure I make the same kind of connection with those who read my books.
If you’re a writer, I hope these tips are helpful. If you’re a reader, I hope your next read touches your heart.
Happy New Year! Happy reading!
