How to Restart A Novel
By Linda H on Aug 15, 2009 in Fiction, Writing Helps
This isn’t really a 1-2-3 “how-to” post. Yes, I do offer some tips below but this is thinly-veiled a plea from me (a two-time published author) to all who read this post.
I’m stuck with my third novel, wondering how to get the thing going in earnest again. I’ve dabbled around the edges by rereading a few books (and a ton of writing Web sites) on writing.
I’ve reread portions of my manuscript, reread my notes for the book, and lingered longingly over the things I collected during my character sketching phase. In my quest for the ‘spark’ I managed to write some pretty snappy coursework on description and character development for a class I’ll be giving in February 2010.
Nothing’s worked really. I’ve still got the same word count on this manuscript, having only accomplished the equivalent of moving the furniture around the room.
You know what I think? I think there should be a contest for finishing a novel from a restart. The prize? Hmm. Let’s see. An audience with an editor or maybe an all-expense paid trip to a writer’s conference.
Enough grumbling. Below are some tips I compiled on how restart a novel. Honestly, they didn’t help me one bit. Let me know if they help you get things rolling again.
- Take stock
What kind of story do you have anyway? Read it out loud. Let someone else read it. - Make a daily word count chart and stick to it
Start small and build up over time. Even 1,000 words a day is a decent start - Lighten up
You’re writing a novel, not prescriptions for chemo drugs. - Read
Read craft books but skip the exercises. They’ll only bog you down. Look for before-after examples. Copy them. - Network with other writers
I’m talking serious time with serious writers. Not silly time poking folks on Facebook. Get real! - Write
This restart may mean you throw out a good chunk of your work before you can start again. Do it, and move on. - Don’t give yourself treats for a ‘job well done.’ What are you, a lap dog?
Okay, I was just kidding about the last one. Do treat yourself, just watch the amount of edible rewards.
Feel free to add to the list in the comment box.
Hey roomie!
I think the best way to restart a novel is to start working on another one. Put the one you’re stuck on now and start something new. I promise, you’ll be working diligently on the next one and all these ideas will start flowing for the previous one. It’s like the characters are jealous or something.
DonnaD | Aug 17, 2009 | Reply
A super idea, Donna. I do have a few ideas I’ve been keeping at bay. Maybe it’s time for them to see the light of day. Thanks. Blessings to your writing, btw.
Linda H | Aug 17, 2009 | Reply