NAKED WRITING: Action & Pacing

When we say a story is fast-paced, it means direct actions outnumber other story elements. We know that Active verbs move your story. Passive verbs—is, as, was, etc—slow the pace.

Sometimes we want to slow the pace, but right now we’re talking action, particularly during slow moments—if that makes sense. A novel’s pace can grind to a halt if you allow characters to stop too often to think. They can think while mowing the lawn or filling the dish washer.

And don’t let them sit down to talk. Yes, it might seem natural to do that, to have a drink or a meal and discuss… whatever… but it can cause your story to lag and readers to yawn. People do talk while playing cards or walking though the zoo.

So keep your characters moving—and… this is so easy to do.

1. First, give them a task. Painting a boat, digging a pond, cleaning windows… make it fit the character and the situation.

2. Then give them a tool… paint brush, shovel… sponge and water hose…

3. Think of the many logical actions… big and small.. that can add interest and even conflict to whatever else is happening.

I’ve had characters discuss major plot threads while playing racket ball or have emotional meltdowns while shaving… or make a decision while absently twirling a coin on a table top. All it takes is a task and a tool. Try it.

And if they MUST sit down to eat, let the meal itself create conflict. Endlessly sipping tea or taking yet another bite of cake is not action… it’s boring.

© Copyright Chris Rogers, 2015