When Does the Plot Happen?

I read a blog recently that hit a cord with me. It was on Babbles from Scott Eagan (Feb. 3rd) and he discussed that it takes both a unique and good book to succeed. He basically says that most submissions fall mainly into two categories. Either the authors have the capacity to tell an amazing story but the plot is nothing extraordinary (or non-existent I would imagine); or, the authors have a very unique and powerful premise but their skills aren't where they need to be to carry it off.

In completing the first draft of my second manuscript, I believe it is currently in the former of these two predicaments; it needs a bit of plot work to make it unique. Now that may not always be the case. I truly believe that some plots are above my head as a writer but as I grow in my craft, this is something that will change. Second, I promise you this is not a pity party. It is called being self-aware and it is one of the most important characteristics you can possess in writing (and any job for that matter) as it allows you to know where you need to improve.

Okay, so back to plots. I've already discussed being a panster and a plotter, and I know that I most definitely lean to the panster side of the line. I do write out a plot beforehand as I try to find some kind of structure, but many times the story leads me in different direction which requires modifying my outline. At first, this drove me crazy because as any of you writers out there know, the more you change your story kind of spontaneously, the more work later on. If you can do more plotting up front, I really believe it makes your life easier.

Alas, I have not yet mastered that technique. But, I have learned that's okay and even somewhat normal as you learn the craft. The plot can really happen anywhere. It can form in your mind before you sit down to write or it can happen in the rewrite. End of day, there are guidelines out there for you to follow. If you can follow them and they help you out, great. If not, you need to do what helps you as a writer.

For me, my major plot tweaking comes in my rewrite. The first draft is my way of knowing my characters and story. Once it is done, I can step back and see where there are areas that might be lacking. This methodology can work, you just needs to make sure that 1) Your draft really is a draft, write fast and no going back to fix every little thing and 2) Write with this "first draft" mindset. Don't lather on details, emotions and intricacies. They can come later.

All in all as I said before, you really need to do what is right for you. A plot can happen anywhere. But if you are considering a career in writing, you need to make sure what you decide to do is efficient. The industry runs on timelines and selling books so practicing now makes perfect for when you do begin to sign those contracts.

Filed under: Toni Kelly, Writing Topics