Ask the Author: Beverly Scott
Answered Questions (8)
Beverly Scott
Eileen, How nice to get your message. I think using the known facts as the framework is a good way to turn a good story that you don't have all the needed factual information into a novel. And I really enjoyed the creative part of the process. Congratulations!
The 3rd Act is a program I created with a few colleagues to support mid-life women and men who wanted to change or slow down their current career or life focus and create a new direction for themselves. For some that is retirement, for others it is changing careers, and for others it is initiating a new skill, interest, direction. I had a great time with it. But I needed time to write my book so I turned it over to my business partner. Thank you for asking.
The 3rd Act is a program I created with a few colleagues to support mid-life women and men who wanted to change or slow down their current career or life focus and create a new direction for themselves. For some that is retirement, for others it is changing careers, and for others it is initiating a new skill, interest, direction. I had a great time with it. But I needed time to write my book so I turned it over to my business partner. Thank you for asking.
Beverly Scott
I don't write horror but here is what would be a horror story for me. "Ready to write the last chapter of my novel, I sat down at my computer, opened the file and discovered the file was totally empty except for a leering face."
Beverly Scott
Read, read, read! Especially read in your desired genre. Yes, it is hard to find the time to read when you barely have time to write. Also, read books on writing by successful writers and by writing teachers. Join or form a writer's group that meets regularly where you can get honest and constructive feedback on your writing. My writing group was incredibly helpful to me with ideas and suggestions when I was stuck with the plot. If your budget is limited, this is a great way to exchange feedback with other writers at very little cost. Another lower cost learning opportunity is to join a writing community or organization for writers. If your budget permits, attend writing workshops, retreats and conferences to learn from accomplished writers and experts. Finally, follow blogs of writers and experts who offer advice and guidance on the many aspects of writing and publishing. Be careful here though. Many of them are selling something. Make sure it will be helpful to you.
There are lots of resources to support our writing. Good luck and happy writing!
There are lots of resources to support our writing. Good luck and happy writing!
Beverly Scott
I can't identify just one thing. One best thing is to find the right word, phrase, description that brings what I am writing to a higher level...a more perfect result. That brings me joy and satisfaction in the writing process. Another best thing...I love hearing from readers that they enjoyed something I wrote, that it stimulated their thoughts or they are interested in knowing more. These responses are special rewards that take the satisfaction of writing externally.
Beverly Scott
I was inspired to write the story about my grandparents and the rumored family mystery because my grandmother inspired me with her strength, courage and love. I wanted to tell her story. How did she manage to remain warm and loving? Telling her story helped me understand that. When I got discouraged during the writing process, I found that when I told others about the story it motivated me again.
Beverly Scott
I find it helpful to get a change..go for a walk, call a friend, get a cup of tea. Most anything that gets my head out of writing and focused on something else. Sometimes I need to just leave my writing for the day and return to it tomorrow. Then when I return to writing I have a fresh perspective.
Beverly Scott
Ideally, I block out two to four hours during three or four days a week. Some weeks other commitments get in the way so I don't get that amount of time to write. I like to write morning through mid-day when I have more energy. If I wait until later in the afternoon, my motivation and creativity are at a low point.
When I sit down to write, I often listen to classical music but it isn't necessary to get me started. I read what I wrote the time before, reflect and get my head into the story. Then I start writing. I work on the computer because I can type faster, delete and edit and move pieces around more easily than when I typing or hand writing. I usually do some minor editing as I write but I wait until I finish a section before I do any major editing.
When I sit down to write, I often listen to classical music but it isn't necessary to get me started. I read what I wrote the time before, reflect and get my head into the story. Then I start writing. I work on the computer because I can type faster, delete and edit and move pieces around more easily than when I typing or hand writing. I usually do some minor editing as I write but I wait until I finish a section before I do any major editing.
Beverly Scott
I am in the midst of writing my first novel after writing non-fiction books and articles most of my career.
I launched a genealogy search to uncover some of the mystery surrounding my grandfather and a family secret. See www.bevscott.com/blog "Journey to Fiction" for a description of this search. I found fascinating information about my grandparents but I didn't find all the answers. Since it was such a great story, I decided to write a fictionalized version of the story.
I launched a genealogy search to uncover some of the mystery surrounding my grandfather and a family secret. See www.bevscott.com/blog "Journey to Fiction" for a description of this search. I found fascinating information about my grandparents but I didn't find all the answers. Since it was such a great story, I decided to write a fictionalized version of the story.
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