Adventures in Outlining
Well, I’m not sure how much of an adventure it is. I wrote the outline, put in all the bits and pieces, and I’m still stuck trying to write it.
Maybe I need a more detailed outline? But, if that’s the case, why not just write the darn thing? Is there any way to feel your way into the character’s thoughts and emotions without losing your interest in the story?
I’m having more luck with my firefighter story right now, because the character is speaking to me. Maybe that’s the problem. Did I jump the gun on the Christmas story, outline it too soon? I hope not–I like Carter. But maybe part of the problem is that I don’t know Thilo as well and I should have waited.
Can you tell I’m flailing a bit here? I’d really like to learn to outline. I’d like to get the stories out on the page faster. And it’s a rare thing that I can’t turn my hand to, so this is doubly frustrating, because I have to wonder if I’m doing it wrong. Or not trying hard enough.
Maybe I should get some second opinions? Those of you who plot, does this look like enough to be going forward with?
Opening Scene: Thilo is at the grocery store, debating over whole turkeys and checking his list. His friends call him from their Christmas party, drunk and silly, to see how he���s getting along in his new city. After the call, they decide to play a prank on him and send him a stripogram.
Inciting Event: Christmas Day, massive storm, Thilo is cooking the turkey and wondering why the hell he bought a whole turkey. The buzzer rings���telegram���and he lets Carter up. Lapdance in Santa outfit (Thilo is embarassed). When it���s over, they realize the storm is much worse and Thilo invites Carter to stay for Christmas Dinner.
It’s–of course–already changed somewhat. And now that I’ve put that up there, I’m realizing that I need to change the outline. Because the inciting incident and the opening scene are actually neither of these scenes, and they both take place in the first chapter, with Carter, not Thilo.
Bugger.
See, I’m verbal. I know this isn’t really talking, but it kind of is to my brain. Thanks for letting me bounce ideas off you. Don’t be surprised if I’m back again to pick your brains. :)
Phew. I was worried I was going to have to confess my failings to The Editor in Question. I have survived to write another day!
Filed under: Random Weirdness Tagged: #ohgodwhydidIdecidetodothis, outlining, The Editor in Question will punish me if I don't, writer's anxiety
