How to Start Writing

Part 1 of an 8 part blog series for writers.



DIFFERENT WAYS TO WRITE

Every writer is different, and their process is different. I know people who write scenes, then write transitions between those scenes to create their book. I have no idea how people write scenes and then put them together. They are very gifted to be able to do that. I cannot.

Some people know the ending and start by writing the end. Then they go back to the beginning and write their way toward that end.

Some people plot out and will even write forty pages of plot points, particularly those who have mystery or suspense. They almost have to do that to make sure their clues and red herrings are in place.

Honestly, if I did that, I’d think, “I’ve already read that book, I know that story” and I’d not be interested in writing it.

I start with a blank page and am very linear. I write from page one all the way to the end of the book and it has to go in that order or I feel very chaotic and can’t continue.
Everything to me, as I write, is an adventure.

WHEN YOU DON’T KNOW WHERE OR HOW TO START

When a person doesn’t know how to start a book I tell them to just sit down and start writing. If you don’t, it’s never going to happen for you.
If they say that they just can’t do that I tell them they can do some exercises.

WRITING EXERCISES

I tell them to close their eyes and imagine themselves in the sun. Start to ask questions. Where are you? Are you under a tree, or by a lake? Describe that.

Then, how are you feeling? And you go through every one of your senses until you have a scene.

Remember that you’re painting a picture for someone who is reading that book. They have to see it, they have to feel it, and they have to know why you’re there.
You have to answer every question for them in that scene, in words. And if you practice doing that, then eventually those things that are in your head become scenes for you and you can write them down.

There’s a story inside of you and you know what it is. Put your fingers on the keyboard and bring that story to life on the page. One word, one sentence, one paragraph, one page. One step at a time.

BOOKS ON WRITING

Here is a list of books for aspiring writers. I’ve not read them all, but have heard them recommended.



Write Away: One Novelist’s Approach to Fiction and the Writing Life by Elizabeth George





On Writing: A Memoir of the Craft by Stephen King



The Hero’s Adventure by Joseph Campbell and The Writer’s Journey by Christopher Vogler (these go together and you can get it on audio)

Writing Great Fiction: Storytelling Tips and Techniques by The Great Courses (on Audio)



Structuring Your Novel: Essential Keys for Writing and Outstanding Story by KM Weiland