Five Stages of the Science-Fiction Author

STAGE 1: Idea

I'll write a book about time travel! Nobody's done that well yet.



STAGE 2: World-building

I wonder if I should relate the history of the war between Morlocks and Ferengis here or in chapter 2. Oh, I know! I'll add a prologue!



STAGE 3: Characterization

Let's see... I've got the absent-minded professor vs. the mad scientist. Oo! And how about an android struggling to understand human emotions. Screw it, I'll just do an ensemble cast. What should I name the Asian character?



STAGE 4: Craft

How many l's are in "mellifluously"? Never mind. I'll just say "dulcet-like".



STAGE 5: Career

I wonder how many Nebulas you have to buy before they just give you the Hugo?