Has anyone ever written a book?

[ApeTheDog]

I am thinking of writing a book. I'm wondering how to go about the following things

a) finding my own voice, the style of writing i am most comfortable in. I'm not too worried about this - I think that through practice and trying, i cannot help but find it, but I was wondering if there were some things I should know, or could/should do, in order to facilitate this.

b) finding out what story to write. I'm also none too worried about this. I'll write about what interests me, but I do feel inconfident about finding a genre to write in. I've been thinking about doing a detective story, as there are little of those around in my local language area and they are popular - but detective stories are not what interest me personally. I haven't actually read any books lately that impressed me. Anyway, this is probably something that I need to figure out entirely for myself, as it is also what I hope the selling point of my book will be.

c) practicalities, such as - how do i set up a good story arc? How do I describe my main characters, and how do I create a balance between them? How do I make my characters evolve throughout the story?

d) Am I missing things that I should know before I start?

Any kind of experience an INTP has with writing, would benefit me immensely. Many thanks for reading this!

[eyebyte_atWork]

I have not - and thats how I now I am still a child for if I was an adult I would be able to write the book.

I have read the advice from many authors of fiction who say something to the effect of "Write, Write, Write - don;t plan it - just Write!!"

I think there is some wisdom there somewhere.

Good luck with your book -

[Hexchild]

Any kind of experience an INTP has with writing, would benefit me immensely.

I'm working on a book since 2001-ish. So far I've written five chapters. Yes, that's about one every year. You will find it here (http://elfwood.lysator.liu.se/libr/p/i/piglet/piglet.html), in case you'd like to study it or simply enjoy reading it.

This particular book is partly an experiment in rationalizing various old myths and mixing them into reality. It's also an epic fantasy story, which is far from finished.



a) finding my own voice, the style of writing i am most comfortable in. I'm not too worried about this - I think that through practice and trying, i cannot help but find it, but I was wondering if there were some things I should know, or could/should do, in order to facilitate this.

This mostly came naturally for me. There are quite a few tricks I've been using on purpose that I think would sort under "style", though, such as:

- regularly revealing as little information as possible about a situation without sacrificing the important things (this lets imagination free and creates some mystery around the storyline)

- starting out many segments of the story with something that makes the reader stop to think in some fashion (just because I like to do that)

- using different styles of communication, and even different narrator styles, for different characters (this makes the characters unique and therefore more alive)

- telling the same things from different characters' viewpoints (gives insight into their minds)

- sneaking clarifying descriptions of events, places, people and races seamlessly into the story (the flow of the story is less severely interrupted, and sometimes this can be used to give even more insight into the characters' minds, when told from their perspective)

- regular use of cliffhangers (unanswered questions keep the reader interested)



b) finding out what story to write. I'm also none too worried about this. I'll write about what interests me, but I do feel inconfident about finding a genre to write in. I've been thinking about doing a detective story, as there are little of those around in my local language area and they are popular - but detective stories are not what interest me personally. I haven't actually read any books lately that impressed me. Anyway, this is probably something that I need to figure out entirely for myself, as it is also what I hope the selling point of my book will be.

As you imply, I don't really think I can help you much with this part. Although I'd recommend you stick to something you know and enjoy, if possible. That way your writing will be enthusiastic and believable.

I've found that I often need to do extensive research on some subject just because it happened to come up. So unless you're OK with doing a lot of that, choose your contents carefully. :lol:



c) practicalities, such as - how do i set up a good story arc? How do I describe my main characters, and how do I create a balance between them? How do I make my characters evolve throughout the story?

I had only a vague idea when I started out. I had decided on a few specific situations that I wanted to include in the story. I had also decided on what kind of world the story would be set in, and made up a few theories about how things should really work, that is, what basic rules of nature and universe would apply in this world. For example, one of the early problems was with joining the idea of magic and the traditional "four elements" in a fantasy setting with a modern world like the one we live in.

After doing this I made a quick outline in my head where I placed the situations I wanted on a rough timeline. Then I pretty much started improvising the story from the beginning. I've changed the timeline quite a few times since then. Since I'm publishing the story online, one chapter at a time, I'm unwilling to go back once I'm through with a chapter. This has proven to be quite interesting since the mistakes I make shapes the story throughout.


As for the characters themselves, to make them believable you'll need at least some basic understanding on what kind of people they are when you insert them into the storyline. I actually used my very limited understanding of MBTI for many of my characters (I've learned a lot about MBTI and redefined some of the characters since). On top of that I had to define their race and in some cases special abilities. I deliberately based many of my characters on well-known stereotypes and then added strongly deviant features.

I also figured that each character should have an agenda, and most of them should be highly capable of making mistakes. since I figure that relatively little happens the way you plan it in real life, I've based a large portion of my story on such mistakes. It's a great way to provide the reader with something unexpected.

I think it's important not to try and control your characters too much (although some limited control can be a good thing). Let them lead their own life, that is, keep roleplaying internally to figure out what each character would do in whatever situation they're in. This makes the characters consistent (and thus believable) and also helps you as a writer to overcome many potential writer's blocks.

Another thing I've theorized about, but which I haven't got around to doing a lot of, is that sometimes a writer has to write exactly what the reader doesn't want to read. For example, if you have an evil character, don't babysit him or her, instead have them do inhumanly cruel things at the worst possible moments, exactly when the reader has the impression that things are turning for the better. I believe that if done well this can create some exceptionally potent drama.



d) Am I missing things that I should know before I start?

Did I forget to mention anything? :lol:

There's probably a lot more I could say about this but I can't think of anything else right now.

[Madrigal]

I am thinking of writing a book. I'm wondering how to go about the following things

a) finding my own voice, the style of writing i am most comfortable in. I'm not too worried about this - I think that through practice and trying, i cannot help but find it, but I was wondering if there were some things I should know, or could/should do, in order to facilitate this.

b) finding out what story to write. I'm also none too worried about this. I'll write about what interests me, but I do feel inconfident about finding a genre to write in. I've been thinking about doing a detective story, as there are little of those around in my local language area and they are popular - but detective stories are not what interest me personally. I haven't actually read any books lately that impressed me. Anyway, this is probably something that I need to figure out entirely for myself, as it is also what I hope the selling point of my book will be.

c) practicalities, such as - how do i set up a good story arc? How do I describe my main characters, and how do I create a balance between them? How do I make my characters evolve throughout the story?

d) Am I missing things that I should know before I start?

Any kind of experience an INTP has with writing, would benefit me immensely. Many thanks for reading this!

I think your idea is great! Unfortunately, these are the kinds of things we never actually get done. It takes a lot of dedication and perseverence to write a book. If you have never written one before, these are some tips I can offer, from the point of view of someone who has wanted to do the same, but only got 'round to writing short stories:

1) Write about something you know. One famous writer said, 'paint your village, and you'll be universal', which I suppose means, there will be universal appeal in a truly genuine product - your life and experiences. Has anything ever happened to you that you'd like to put down on paper? Any interesting people you've met that could be disguised as characters? Anything you want to do that you'd like to write about before you achieve it? Writing about something you know will help you explore your own life and it will always be more genuine.

2) Start small. If you've never written a book, it may help you discover your writing style if you start with short stories or essays. Maybe even a few poems, to stimulate your creativity. Ray Bradbury wrote several short stories about burning books before he finally took all those thoughts and crystalized them into 'Farenheit 451', his masterpiece. I know you must be anxious to start a masterpiece too, but don't see this stage as a waste of time - your writing style and the themes that interest you, approached in a somewhat partial manner, will help you exercise your talent for the big task. You'll surely draw upon themes and characters developed during this experimental stage when the time comes to write a book.

3) Don't be afraid of small stories. You might be tempted to write about unusual adventures, but the most beautiful stories can sometimes be in the simplest things in life. A friend, a town, a stranger, a family, a moment alone, etc.

4) Think of themes. Remembering experiences or imagining stories, actions and plots is just one way of approaching it. What are the abiding Themes of your life? Think of one-word themes, brainstorming these defining words. Example, 'Curiosity, 'Searching', 'Loneliness' (lets hope not! ;o) )

5) Research. Once you have an idea of what you'd like to start writing about, you might find it useful and inspiring to read what others have written on the same thing. Short stories and poetry are a good start for collecting several types of styles and approaches in a relatively small period of time. You might even like one particular style and want to use it, which is good, it will eventually morph into your own style.

That's all I have for now, good luck and share those stories with us when you start! :)

[Zephyrus055]

I have actually seriously considered writing a book detailing my philosophy, but even then I'm too lazy!

[eyebyte_atWork]

I think your idea is great! Unfortunately, these are the kinds of things we never actually get done. It takes a lot of dedication and perseverence to write a book. If you have never written one before, these are some tips I can offer, from the point of view of someone who has wanted to do the same, but only got 'round to writing short stories:

1) Write about something you know. One famous writer said, 'paint your village, and you'll be universal', which I suppose means, there will be universal appeal in a truly genuine product - your life and experiences. Has anything ever happened to you that you'd like to put down on paper? Any interesting people you've met that could be disguised as characters? Anything you want to do that you'd like to write about before you achieve it? Writing about something you know will help you explore your own life and it will always be more genuine.

2) Start small. If you've never written a book, it may help you discover your writing style if you start with short stories or essays. Maybe even a few poems, to stimulate your creativity. Ray Bradbury wrote several short stories about burning books before he finally took all those thoughts and crystalized them into 'Farenheit 451', his masterpiece. I know you must be anxious to start a masterpiece too, but don't see this stage as a waste of time - your writing style and the themes that interest you, approached in a somewhat partial manner, will help you exercise your talent for the big task. You'll surely draw upon themes and characters developed during this experimental stage when the time comes to write a book.

3) Don't be afraid of small stories. You might be tempted to write about unusual adventures, but the most beautiful stories can sometimes be in the simplest things in life. A friend, a town, a stranger, a family, a moment alone, etc.

4) Think of themes. Remembering experiences or imagining stories, actions and plots is just one way of approaching it. What are the abiding Themes of your life? Think of one-word themes, brainstorming these defining words. Example, 'Curiosity, 'Searching', 'Loneliness' (lets hope not! ;o) )

5) Research. Once you have an idea of what you'd like to start writing about, you might find it useful and inspiring to read what others have written on the same thing. Short stories and poetry are a good start for collecting several types of styles and approaches in a relatively small period of time. You might even like one particular style and want to use it, which is good, it will eventually morph into your own style.

That's all I have for now, good luck and share those stories with us when you start! :)


But most of all - write!!!

[abathur]

I won't claim to have written a book yet, but I did set about writing a short story only to find out that the idea was far bigger than what I could really get away with calling a "short" story. I'd probably say just write something. Don't force something in particular. Just set out to write something and see where you're naturally taking it. Write a bit without forcing yourself into a mold and you'll probably notice some common threads through your writing. Maybe try some writing exercises (starting with someone elses line for flash/short fiction or poetry, write a description, backstory and current story for people you see out and about, etc.)

I'm not sure where you are as a writer, but you'll probably be much happier with your final product if it is not your first significant product. Personally I wouldn't bother taking the time to write a novel until I'm regularly satisfied--as a reader, with the poetry and short-stories I'm writing (if I'm going to take all that time, I want to be sure I'm going to be happy with the product.)

[kuranes]

Damon Knight created a good guide for beginning writer considerations. I don't remember what it s called. "On Writing" or something like that. I'll have to look it up.

[Rajah]

Arg.. I wrote a post that apparently vanished into the ether. Sigh.

Anyway, I've toyed with writing a book for ages. Usually, one of two things happens. Either I lose interest, or (more frequently) I despise what I've written and throw it away. So, I haven't yet figured out the "formula" for keeping at writing and developing a novel, but I'd caution you to keep everything you write. I've found that if I go back and read whatever writing I've made myself keep, it's generally not shabby.

There's also a free Barnes and Noble University Gotham Fiction Writers' Workshop kicking off on October 3. If nothing else, there's a good list of recommended reading. The required reading for the course is one practical book on writing, and The Great Gatsby.

Finally, I have a fascinating collection of interviews with writers that basically shows how they operate and what's important to them as writers. I found it gives some valuable insight into their writing process, and some tips that you can take or leave. For example, some of the writers are very methodical (shudder!) while others are more freeform (hurray!). I believe every writer said that to become a great writer, you must become a voracious reader. I can't remember the name of the book, but I found it at Barnes and Noble in the writing section, and am having no luck locating it on the website. I'll post the title later.

[indie]

Damon Knight created a good guide for beginning writer considerations. I don't remember what it s called. "On Writing" or something like that. I'll have to look it up.

I believe it's Stephen King's book that is titled On Writing?

And to answer your question, ApetheDog, I finished a book; it sucks. Fiction/thriller. Way to many plot lines for a mere 55K words. Reading it now, my lack of maturity as a writer is quite apparent. I've since become slightly disenchanted with fiction, but at least I no longer have the writer's block.

[kuranes]

One key is to make sure that your novel is "character driven" vs. "plot driven", which is a mistake a lot of people make. The characters have to stay true to themselves, and not say or do things that would be implausible for them. This is not to say that they cannot change some as the book ( and time ) progresses - in fact, they MUST do so, because this is what actual characters in the world do ALSO. New developments and back story must be introduced more naturally also. People often try to shoe-horn it in quickly, so as to "get it out of the way" and get the plot rolling along. So you'll have unrealistic dialogue that reads like:

"Did you hear that Dick the Slasher just escaped, sheriff?"

"He DID? You mean the same Dick the Slasher that said he'd get revenge on me immediately if he ever escaped?"

"The same one. Yes. He might have a little trouble though, with this hurricane blowing into town soon, don't you think?"

"Yes, I'm on my way to see my other deputy about that right now. Did you need a ride?"

You can also go wrong by trying to be too cute - making practically every chapter a new character POV, for example. Using odd spelling to conjure regional dialect. Dividing up the page to show characters interrupting each other in dialogue.

Often a third person narration which sounds first person-ish is effective, if you know what I mean. As opposed to trying to make the third person completely neutral and detached. This is not the same at all as having the narration actually breaking the barrier by saying things like "Dear reader, this is where I must tell you yada yada" which I despise.

[Rajah]

"Did you hear that Dick the Slasher just escaped, sheriff?"

"He DID? You mean the same Dick the Slasher that said he'd get revenge on me immediately if he ever escaped?"

"The same one. Yes. He might have a little trouble though, with this hurricane blowing into town soon, don't you think?"

"Yes, I'm on my way to see my other deputy about that right now. Did you need a ride?"Oooh. Sounds like a terrific book. And who doesn't love Dick the Slasher?

[kuranes]

I believe it's Stephen King's book that is titled On Writing?

And to answer your question, ApetheDog, I finished a book; it sucks. Fiction/thriller. Way to many plot lines for a mere 55K words. Reading it now, my lack of maturity as a writer is quite apparent. I've since become slightly disenchanted with fiction, but at least I no longer have the writer's block.

I read King's book too. It's cool, but nowhere near as informative as Knight's book about the mechanics of writing. I looked up the title ( since people do not like to have to do so themselves, I've noticed ) and it is actually called "Creating Short Fiction". Enjoy.

Rajah - What do you like to write about?

[MacGuffin]

I like to write non-fiction. Problem is, the same plot line keeps getting repeated over and over.

It's about this guy who is an admin on this "internet message board". And when someone pisses him off, he looks up their IP address and some other stuff and then flies to where they live. For a week, he observes his target, all the while participating on the website so no one is the wiser. And just when the target thinks they are safe, he sneaks into where they live. Quietly he creeps up behind them as they stare at their computer screen, and he slowly pulls out his serrated bowie knife...

[kuranes]

And then yells "Bowie!" Or "Boo-ie!" Something like that.

Scary monsters . . . . . .

[MacGuffin]

And then yells "Bowie!" Or "Boo-ie!" Something like that.The only sounds are some thrashing and blood gurgling...

[kuranes]

Wasn't Clave saying something about a British gargler the other day?

[Rajah]

Rajah - What do you like to write about?Lately, the theme of disillusionment is a favorite. No surprise; I'm writing what I know.

:)

[Rajah]

Quietly he creeps up behind them as they stare at their computer screen, and he slowly pulls out his serrated bowie knife......and cuts a loaf of bread, because that's what serrated knives are good for.

:)

[kuranes]

Que serrate serrate serrate
Whatever will be
is fate
The future's not ours to
grate
Que Serrate Serrate

[MacGuffin]

I'm the new INTP muse!

[mgb]

I like to write non-fiction. Problem is, the same plot line keeps getting repeated over and over.

It's about this guy who is an admin on this "internet message board". And when someone pisses him off, he looks up their IP address and some other stuff and then flies to where they live. For a week, he observes his target, all the while participating on the website so no one is the wiser. And just when the target thinks they are safe, he sneaks into where they live. Quietly he creeps up behind them as they stare at their computer screen, and he slowly pulls out his serrated bowie knife...

Doesn't the heavy breathing give you away? And do you really leave the house wearing a bathrobe?

[MacGuffin]

Doesn't the heavy breathing give you away? And do you really leave the house wearing a bathrobe?You don't seem to notice!

Uh... wait, don't turn around.

[CoHo]

I just downloaded Stein on Writing (http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/tg/detail/-/0312254210/qid=1127937744/sr=8-1/ref=pd_bbs_1/102-5711055-0377725?v=glance&s=books&n=507846) in audiobook form. Seemed to have some good reviews, haven't started it but I'll let you know.

I love to write but I lack talent.

[Rajah]

FYI, a lot of people recommend Bird by Bird, by Anne Lamott.

[MacGuffin]

FYI, a lot of people recommend Bird by Bird, by Anne Lamott.Yes, I've heard that too.

[Limey]

I once tried but never finished, actually I never got beyond the first chapter - I guess it was more of a weed induced muse a few years ago.

One good thing I discovered however, is that written guides are essential if you ever want to have it published. A few good guides I read were Scene and Structure by Jack Bickham and the 38 most common Fiction writing mistakes (and how to avoid them) also by Jack Bickham.

[nihilist]

I never write fiction because I am too scared to confront the truth at how terribly I can write. I have already come vis-a-vis with my own mediocrity of my existence on so many levels. Besides, once I would start writing, I would subconsciously surrender the high ground. I am much more comfortable as the armchair critic who evaluates the work of other writers.

[Nighthawk]

I've translated a few historical books from German to English. Also authored some articles in the areas of computer science, military tactics, and military history. No fiction however ... although I would love to try it someday.

[Limey]

I am much more comfortable as the armchair critic who evaluates the work of other writers.

That's why I'm not a computer programmer ;-)

[Conan]

smoke lots of pot (it worked in the Wonder Boys)

[Rajah]

Finally, I have a fascinating collection of interviews with writers that basically shows how they operate and what's important to them as writers. I found it gives some valuable insight into their writing process, and some tips that you can take or leave. For example, some of the writers are very methodical (shudder!) while others are more freeform (hurray!). I believe every writer said that to become a great writer, you must become a voracious reader. I can't remember the name of the book, but I found it at Barnes and Noble in the writing section, and am having no luck locating it on the website. I'll post the title later.As promised, and despite my INTP tendencies, I have followed through and am posting the title of the book. It is Novel Voices, edited by Jennifer Levasseur and Kevin Rabelais.

http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/tg/detail/-/1582972451/qid=1128004588/sr=8-1/ref=pd_bbs_1/102-4844084-1191322?v=glance&s=books&n=507846

I am also reading Unstuck, by Jane Anne Staw, a writing professor who focuses on what kinds of writers' block exist, the causes for writers' block, and what to do to get past writers' block. So far, a good read, though ironically, I haven't yet done the exercises in the book. :)

http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/tg/detail/-/0312301200/qid=1128004614/sr=2-2/ref=pd_bbs_b_2_2/102-4844084-1191322?v=glance&s=books

[TPol]

Lots of good advice already on this thread. Here's a site that might help a bit:
http://www.inspired2write.com/articles.html#general1

Two or three people in the local writer's group to which I belong recommended "Bird by Bird" as well. I haven't read it yet, but writers are talking about it being pretty good.

Edit: Glad you asked these questions. Thanks. As a result, I went out and googled "how to write a novel" and came up with a site I hadn't seen before. I'm going to try this method on a book I'm currently struggling to write. I haven't read any of this author's books, but I like the way he thinks in this:
http://www.rsingermanson.com/html/the_snowflake.html

[Rajah]

Glad this thread was bumped back up.

I have two more books to add to the list (almost typed "ass to the list," which would belong in a different thread altogether).


Writing Fiction: The Practical Guide From New York's Acclaimed Creative Writing School, by Gotham Writers' Workshop. Full of good advice. I liked it a lot.

Along some different lines, I'm also enjoying The 3 A.M. Epiphany: Uncommon Writing Exercises That Transform Your Fiction, by Brian Kiteley. The book has some very unusual and thought-provoking prompts that have kick-started my writing. Further, the prompts are broad, so they don't rein in your creativity at all. My husband and I did the first prompt, a detached first-person narrative using the words "me," "my," "myself," or "I" two times total, and it was interesting just how different our finished products were. Mine ended up being about a woman so wrapped up in work she failed to buy her daughter a doll for Christmas, and my husband's was about employees' shenanigans at a mall fast food establishment.

[MacGuffin]

http://www.nanowrimo.org/

I am going to try.

[TPol]

http://www.nanowrimo.org/

I am going to try.

My local writing group tried that last year. Only one of us succeeded. One out of 8....so that means it CAN be done. Go for it! Maybe I'll give it a go, too. I'd kind of forgotten about it. Thanks for the link.

[Geek Engineer]

I started writing a book about my life, but never finished it. I started getting myself too depressed thinking about it. So I quit at one point and never went back to it.

[Leftfield]

I write philosophical shorts and will compile them into a series, I guess it would be like a short book of wisdom and insight, all dated of course. Probably will separate them into sections by theme. I got into this when I was in Europe and had no internet connection for six months and experiences came more often then not.

The best one is a "what could have been" story about a Russian girl I met in Copenhagen and had to speak German with. Not an everyday occurence.

[TPol]

That sounds interesting, Leftfield. Are you going to try to get it published? Or, is it already?

[Madrigal]

I never write fiction because I am too scared to confront the truth at how terribly I can write. I have already come vis-a-vis with my own mediocrity of my existence on so many levels. Besides, once I would start writing, I would subconsciously surrender the high ground. I am much more comfortable as the armchair critic who evaluates the work of other writers.

This kind of honesty towards yourself and others is exactly what, in my opinion, makes a brilliant writer. I would very much doubt your lack of talent in this area. This small paragraph alone will remain in my mind.

EDIT: Maybe you would write a good autobiographical story in the first person. Mediocrity itself is a great subject. Take Sartre's 'Nausea', for example. Or James Joyce's 'The Dead.'

[Lee]

I'd rather type a book.

[MacGuffin]

I do the same as nihilist. Which is why I am forcing myself to do nanowrimo.

[Rajah]

I do the same as nihilist. Which is why I am forcing myself to do nanowrimo.Okay, MacGuffin. I signed up. This better be good!

[MacGuffin]

Okay, MacGuffin. I signed up. This better be good!It is what you make of it. What is your username?

[Rajah]

It is what you make of it. What is your username?Username = kearston

I assume you're MacGuffin?

[MacGuffin]

Username = kearston

I assume you're MacGuffin?Yep.

[Ka.avik]

Ok, I'll chime in to say I'm KavikBearCat. Don't know what I'll be writing. Or why, or even if. That's nearly 2 thousand words a day. But, their list had as #6:

this is not a scary as it seems.

So; since I've always wanted to write fiction, I'll pretend I'm actually going to. So far I've decided that it needs to have GM'd raccoons. the main character will 'escape' (haven't decided what that means yet) and in resulting travels, meet a pair of GM'd wolves.

Yes, that's about as much as I know right now.

[Leftfield]

That sounds interesting, Leftfield. Are you going to try to get it published? Or, is it already?

Well, it has been over a month since I have been in Europe, so I will have to re-read it since my English is pretty much back to normal, I might let a literature professor read it, don't know how it would/could get published (any ideas?).

I guess it would be a non-ficitional short story. I also have not let anyone else read it for themselves.

[TPol]

Well, it has been over a month since I have been in Europe, so I will have to re-read it since my English is pretty much back to normal, I might let a literature professor read it, don't know how it would/could get published (any ideas?).
I guess it would be a non-ficitional short story. I also have not let anyone else read it for themselves.

I could have PMed this to you, but it might prove useful to several. So, I'll write it all here as briefly as I can.

So, you'd try to publish only the one story about the Russian girl? Or, all of the wisdom tidbits compiled into one book that includes that story?

If it is just the one short story, it might work well in a magazine. You could look through the 2005 Writer's Market (found at library or bookstore). Look in the magazine section of the Writer's Market to find some ideas for which magazines might print it. Or, you could use the longer route of perusing the magazine rack for magazines that might print it (have similar style of stories), then write to them for writer's guidelines (usually says where to write in the section about the editor, location, and that stuff) or look them up on the Internet for more information.

If it is publishing the compilation you are after, then look in the 2005 Writer's Market (in its book publisher section) to determine which publishers might go for that. Or, if you know of a book or two that are similar in style, go look in those books for which publisher printed them and look up writer's guidelines and submission tips at that publisher's website. I'd also suggest going through an agent for getting a book published (short stories in the magazine market don't seem to get their attention). There are all kinds of legalities/contract work with which an agent proves helpful. And, many book publishers now will not even work with "unagented" authors. I believe there is a list of agents in the back of the Writer's Market, too.

You could also approach the ebook markets, but I don't know enough about that market yet to give any kind of good advice.

[Leftfield]

So, you'd try to publish only the one story about the Russian girl? Or, all of the wisdom tidbits compiled into one book that includes that story?


Well the wisdom book is primarily my perception of life over several issues at hand, some personal, some general (business, politics, religion, culture and mostly how they all mix into the same pool). If I did a book on this, I would have to focus on the personal or the general... general would sell better.

I think that the short story specifically is one of my finest, because I hint on the determinism/free will situations that we sometimes take for granted. Existentialism given the circumstances (American works in Germany travels to Copenhagen meets Russian girl visiting a friend and their only communication was in German, they meet in a museum at this specific time). Also, the regret you face when this/these situations have passed and that nothing can be changed...

mainly an INTP that didn't take a chance because he/she is an INTP is the best explanation to the masses here :)

[distraction tactics]

~A la boomp (aka "killing time")

I'm currently hashing out what I think is a great plot idea, but like most of you the actually mechanics of crafting a good story scare me. I'm thinking, however, if I can flesh out the characters, the universe, and most of the major plot points, much the of the writing will solve itself upon revision (yah right!). Anyway, what irks me about writing is unlike a song or a piece of visual art, I cannot tell you what makes a passage of writing good or bad. Music, I can hear the beat, the drum fills, time signature changes, the bass lines, the guitars working in cooperation, then dueling, then layered... each little squeal of a pinched string, mounting tension, release, conclusion... with writing I cannot do that. It's not dynamic enough for me to grasp what consists of 'good writing'.

[meshou]

I've been thinking of it. I have a few interesting people in my family, and it might be sort of neat to write short stories on a theme about them. Especially some of the women.

I'm not worried about voice, and I've written and completed novel-length *coughfanficcough* ...stories before. But I do know that if it doesn't grab me by the crotch and force me to write it, it doesn't get written, and I haven't had that strong a pull yet on this.

[Misazeno]

I'll be writing a book soon enough, but I want to get a portable tape recorder because it's better to dictate everything, thought and ideas, then compile them into your book. Even better to dictate the whole book you have in mind then type everything out and skipping what you don't want in there.

I don't have enough money right now to spend on a tape recorder so I am waiting.

[azurwarrior]

I'm writing my 3rd book now. My goal is to write 20 books, mostly poems and interesting (I hope) autobiographical stuff.
I chose that because that's how many Adrianne Rich has written, and my work has often been compared to hers, at least in some aspects.
I don't know about translating Ghazals from Arabic, though...
Anyway, my hope is that if I write that much poetry, mabye 2 or 3 poems will really be worthwhile!
Did you ever read Orlando?
Maybe I'll recognise my work in a future life. I'll need to complete this to go on.
I'm tired of the earth plane.
And I protest what's going on, on Earth.
It's just TOO MUCH suffering, and I want to make an impact on healing this.
It's nice to have an audience, here.
Thanks for reading.
Hope I didn't bore you....

[Shimpei]

An INTP friend of mine is into writing. He's excellent at grotesque, absurd and overall cynical-sarcastic humor. He writes parodies. Also his sentences are precisely and thoughtfully created, he finds the very, the fitting words when describing a situation or an emotion. Maybe you have the same talents...

[Pierce]

I wrote a manuscript half my life ago. Spent a year feverishly tapping it out. Toward the end, forced myself to write one chapter a night, for better or worse. I'm glad I did it. I reworked it a bit here and there over the years, but was finally content to let it stand on its own. It was just a little like having a kid.

[Zero Angel]

I've translated a few historical books from German to English. Also authored some articles in the areas of computer science, military tactics, and military history. No fiction however ... although I would love to try it someday.
I would *love* to read whatever you have written about military tactics. Tactics and strategy fascinate me greatly.

My email address is zeroangel-at-bzuniverse.com

[Birdsnest]

If you read a lot it also helps you to study the styles and then imitate.
I've fantasized about writing books. I have written short storys, short romances, and adventures. Nothing in book form though. I'd like to learn to write childrens books.

[Dr. Haight]

It is difficult for me to believe that an INTP can even finish a book project if it includes more than one-hundred pages. However, I am sure a couple of INTPs have been successful, yet they are the anomolies.

[Xander]

Ape,
I have tried to write fiction or just roleplay settings multiple times. It occurs to me that the most helpful thing I ever did was to start a brainstorming note book. I'd write down stuff about different factions or characters in there and possible plot directions before I'd even started to try the story itself. I found it gave me a more solid world to write in and something to work with when the inevitable writers block kicked in, though having read Kuranes' bit I think his point about having full characters and letting their lives flow is excellent and something I had not thought of.

Above all, good luck Ape.

[Stoic]

smoke lots of pot (it worked in the Wonder Boys)

I agree. Nothing keeps creative energy well fueled like pot does.

[libertarianjim]

I'm supposed to be. I've been lazy. (Assuming you equate "dissertation" with "book.")

[Madrigal]

How's the writing going, Ape?

[Dr. Haight]

I'm supposed to be. I've been lazy. (Assuming you equate "dissertation" with "book.")

Same here. However, my situation is post-dissertation into publishable book form. But as you can see...

I CAN'T STAY AWAY FROM THE F****G WEBSITE LONG ENOUGH TO ACCOMPLISH ANYTHING!

[headfonez]

I've written a book (http://web.fccj.edu/~mlperry/tglonline.html)

[LongSilence]

Whatdyaknow, I'm writing a novel too. Getting a fair way into it but have already managed to dream up ambitions far beyond the first book. That's one problem some people have with writing fiction- once you unleash your imagination on a subject it can be very hard to rein it in again. As it is I didn't make life too easy for myself in the first place by going for the fantasy genre where you're creating a whole new world or entire universe based upon your own vision.

Here's one piece of advice- get outside criticism. Not only of your original ideas, which probably sound quite awesome to anyone because most stories can be interesting in theory, but of the actual writing. Keeping things quick, interesting and consistent is the hard, and most vital part. A good idea can only go so far without proper implementation. That said, a good story doesn't need great writing to succeed. It just needs to show a certain 'something', be it passion, flair or just dogged effort. Thats what people can often relate to in writing- the writer's connection with his story. However, one's love for one's original thought can also be unhelpful because it means that any writing that is reread might seem terrible simply because it can never live up to the great dream a writer often has for his story. This is often why its beneficial for a writer to start to write a story based on ideas that he doesn't consider that good.

Anyway, good luck to all. I'll just repeat- find someone to share your ideas and writing with. Ideally they'll be people with some love or understanding of either the area or the process you're going through and so will be able to give some good, honest criticism. If necessary there are plenty of real-life and online writers workshops out there if you don't have people you know you'd feel comfortable giving your stuff to.

[Skydiver]

A foolish consistency is the hobgoblin of little minds...

However, consistancy at the right level is anything but foolish. Finding what to be consistant about in a story is what makes it or breaks it in many cases. The guy who wrote The World According To Garp told a story about a time he was on an airplane, someone was reading his book and he saw the reader throw the book down in disgust. The author knew he broke consistancy in that reader's mind, but didn't know just how he did it.

Consistancy is not being formulaic. But it can turn into that and then it becomes really, really bad writing.

And that is where writing gets really painful to the serious INTP. You need to have someone other than you read your stuff to see if it is broke or lifeless. And then learn to listen to the feedback in a way that keeps your original idea intact.

Best I can come up with on the subject.

[cryingmime]

FYI, a lot of people recommend Bird by Bird, by Anne Lamott.

eh, This book was ok. nothing too special, though... I think that "The Artists Way" helped me more.

r

[ApeTheDog]

How's the writing going, Ape?

Not happening, I'm afraid. My creativity is at an all time low. I don't have the drive to stand out and show things, and whatever originality I have left, I use up during my dayjob. When I come home, I sink into my chair and melt - and during the weekend, I mainly undergo things and entertain myself with other peoples creative impulses.

[Madrigal]

Not happening, I'm afraid. My creativity is at an all time low. I don't have the drive to stand out and show things, and whatever originality I have left, I use up during my dayjob. When I come home, I sink into my chair and melt - and during the weekend, I mainly undergo things and entertain myself with other peoples creative impulses.
It's been happening to me too, for a long time now. Maybe a year, maybe more. Ocasionally, I think something up on the weekend, but it's becoming conventional, and lately I hardly even do that. L'age de raison or something? Is there anything that can be done?

[ApeTheDog]

It's been happening to me too, for a long time now. Maybe a year, maybe more. Ocasionally, I think something up on the weekend, but it's becoming conventional, and lately I hardly even do that. L'age de raison or something? Is there anything that can be done?

I think so. The main difference I see between me now, and me some years ago, is that I don't do stupid things for the sake of fun - but knowing they're stupid - anymore.

Today, for example, I did one such a thing. I just sat down in a wheelchair and drove through the cooridors (nobody was there, I wasn't putting on a show) and it was really a lot of fun. Not despite being really stupid but BECAUSE it was really stupid.

Once you reach a certain age, you don't do these things anymore. You act your age, and try to do things with the most dignity you can handle. I don't get into situations where I simply have to laugh because I don't know what else to do anymore - a fun and unavoidable thing in the past. But should that be keeping me from laughing anyway?

Not, in my opinion, if I want to stay young and happy.

And, eh, as for writing... it's just not combineable with a real job. You can either extend your energy and decharge at work - and then unwind at home (because that is really all I do when I get home. Erase memories) or have no job, and expend your supluss energy by writing. Unless they invent a really good energy drink, both are impossible.

Personally, I think I'll get right back into wanting to write once I go back to university - when this 1-year job is over.

[abathur]

I don't know what I can offer in the way of writing a novel, but I was having a really rough time writing new poems over the past few months and I think I figured out why, when I sent off a bunch of poems that had been in-revision so I could be confident in sending them out for a few months. It didn't SEEM like I was using up creative energy just re-reading old pieces and looking for what needed to be changed and spiced up, but it was _killing_ my drive for writing new poems. (I wrote 6 new pieces I was satisfied with from mid december through mid april, after I sent out my poems and quit working on revision I had 3 new poems I liked within a week and despite 2 weeks of studying like hell for finals and a few days of taking them I managed to get out 2 more good poems in that period of time. So I've got 5 new poems that are probably of enough quality that I can revise them and be confident enough to send them out within 3 weeks after only 6 in 4 months.

If you're spending time revising and picking over what you've already written, that's a good place to look for what may be killing your creative energy. I thought revision was a good filler for any time I didn't have a good idea for writing, but it seems it was part of the reason I had nothing to say.

Also, if you can't "think" of something to say, try to write at least 15 minutes a day anyways, about anything. Go sit on a bench and watch people for 30 minutes and write about it if you have to. I can do a lot of "thinking" to get through problems while I'm sitting around, but I don't come up with that many "new" ideas while I'm trying to "think" but rather while I'm doing something else, like studying, or listening to a lecture, or driving, or going for a walk, or trying to get to sleep, etc. So, keep the pen moving, and take a notebook with you while you're out and about. Maybe you'll spend a month writing 15 minutes a day and never write another page for your novel, but I'd almost guarantee you'll have some good ideas for novel content in all of that writing you've put down.

[aklight]

This thread inspires me. I've never written more than about 6 pages before. I think what I'll do is sit down and write for about 30 minutes a day until I feel like I'm done. When you've got the discipline and you make a decision like that, you KNOW that you're going to get somewhere at least. It's guaranteed. I’ll have a completed short story in about a month at the latest. (It’s better to have a bad story or novel than a good one that never gets done, right?) Even if you had worked on your book 10 minutes a day for this last year, you would have made some decent progress by now (because 10 minutes easily turns into 3 hours once you get into it).

Good luck to you whenever you decide to start again. Don’t think too far ahead. Just write.

[Dumpy]

I recommend "The Writers Journey," by Chris Vogler. He explains that nearly every story follows the same general pattern--which derives from classical mythology--with the same basic archetypes and story arcs. It is pretty eye-opening, and can help ou develop a plan for putting together a story. Star Wars follows the pattern to a T, with all the archetypes and with the typical story structure. It's based on campbell's work on mythology, but he breaks it down in a way that is useful to aspiring writers.

I personally had been working on a book, a fantasy-adventure written for 8-14 year-olds, but pretty much stopped when my first daughter was born four years ago. I have the story worked out in my head, but don't have the time and energy to devote to it right now. I found that in order to write, I had to first walk my imagination throuh an imaginary "door," go on an imaginary "walk," until I finally reached my fantasy world, and could then write down what I saw and heard them do. In other words, I can't just sit down and write without advance preparation, without "getting in the mood," which is almost a mediative state. That's the only way I can put it. The characters still exist in my mind, but I don't have much oportunity to "talk" to them any more, and it upsets me (particularly because the main character is something of an alter-ego of myself at age ten).

I feel that I'll have to wait until they are old enough to go to sleepaway camp for the summer to continue. I hope that's not true.

[macr0]

I'd like to write a book and I've spent some time just sitting there writing. Typical fiction is not my kind of thing.

I like writing about views and perspectives and ways of doing things.

My main problem is getting things jumbled together.

I write a lot of little chunks on different parts of the same topic and it's just so hard putting them all together into a flowing, coherent passage.

I find it hard to turn the web in my mind into a linear message on paper.

[nomir_dva]

All of the writing I've done so far has been born of very short-lived inspiration, and so I've never produced anything longer than fifteen pages or so. Novel writing seems to involve an entirely different approach. It's interesting that Kafka never finished any of his three novels (or was there an early fourth that he destroyed?).

[Dirty-American-Devil]

I have been thinking about writing a memor.
I have thought about writing a manual for introducing people to programming.
Have thought about opening up an educational blog about science, philoshpy and politics.

The thing is, my grammer and spelling is horrible, along with the motivation once I have everything set in place.

The idea of writing a memor has died though, as I come to terms with my pass.

[Dumpy]

you can hire someone to fix your grammar. Don't let that stop you--although, I know that it is hard for us INTPs to produce something that is less than perfect--I've been known to struggle for a half hour on a single sentence (huh? Where did the time go?) For instance, my wife has edited a couple of dissertations and one self-edited book.

[roninmedia]

Find something to inspire you. I had ideas for either a modern drama such as asian television or a broad sweeping epic like final fantasy.

I used to write poetry and began work on a "book" on my spare time. For some reason, I poured out over 12 pages in less than 1 day and then it just waned and it stopped. Writers have this insatiable passion to write is often weakened but never snuffed out once they find their inspiration.

[Mr.Miagi]

I have been thinking about writing a memor.
I have thought about writing a manual for introducing people to programming.
Have thought about opening up an educational blog about science, philoshpy and politics.

The thing is, my grammer and spelling is horrible, along with the motivation once I have everything set in place.

The idea of writing a memor has died though, as I come to terms with my pass.

what on earth is a memor?

[Jennywocky]

I am thinking of writing a book. I'm wondering how to go about the following things

a) finding my own voice,

b) finding out what story to write.

c) practicalities, such as - how do i set up a good story arc? How do I describe my main characters, and how do I create a balance between them? How do I make my characters evolve throughout the story?

d) Am I missing things that I should know before I start?

Mentally, first distinguish in your head whether you plan to write a book or sell a book. Occassionally writers are fortunate that the book they want to write is also a book that will sell; but in general, if you can separate the two desires up front, you won't be as disappointed later.

If you are writing just to write, then do it and don't worry about selling; if you do plan to sell, you should probably get a decent idea of what's on the market and what is selling. Publishers/Agents usually demand a plot synopsis and/or outline, as well as a market analysis, when you submit your proposal or draft to them.

(Note: You'll also need an agent, most likely, so that's another practicality to address. Many publishers no longer accept unsolicited documents; they don't have the trained manpower to process them, and they expect the agent to be the "gatekeeper" so to speak.)

I love to write. I have skill with writing, prose and otherwise. But it's damned hard. Some people have noted that writing is hard for INTPs. It depends on the type of writing.

Analytical writing or commentary (i.e., theme and pattern recognition) is easy. It's taking someone else's details and distilling them.

Writing fiction can be hard because I'm a conceptual thinker, and fiction demands working backwards, thinking linearly, thinking in details, and not necessarily thinking comprehensively but just focusing on the telling the parts of the story that people will be motivated to read.

Some writers make a living out of writing to an audience, so they never have an "obvious voice" -- they change, depending on theme and audience. Others write to express themselves, so they quickly develop a voice. This is another decision to make. Are you writing to write for you, or to connect with an audience? It changes how you write and what "voice" you use. Maybe you won't be happy approaching things from one of these angles and need to approach it from the other.

Finding your voice is just a matter of writing. Write, write, and write some more. Read a variety of things, not just one thing, and you'll see what works, what you like and don't like, and you'll find an affinity for something. Creativity is based on a steady stream of input. Yes, if you're writing detective novels, you dont' want to read a bunch while you're trying to write them (because it's so close to what you're doing, it might block your creativity), but do read them in preparation. And read LOTS of other fiction, and even non-fiction.

I haven't read the whole thread. As far as your tale goes, think "story." The worst mistake I see in philosophical thinking types is writing a story full of abstract conjecture that is as boring as hell to read, even for the philosophically minded. Most people read stories for the story. Story is everything. Some people will stream-line to a fault (Grisham and others), but because they are easy reads, they SELL. Others will not, but they still manage to sell if they're in a niche market and because the story is still interesting.

For a story to happen, conflict must occur. If the characters are not in a conflict, they aren't moving "dramatically" anywhere. Writers all approach this differently, but basically think: Who is this person, what do they want, what are they torn up apart, and what resolution might help them? What characters will necessarily come into conflict with each other, while pursuing their good goals? The best stories, I think, are ones where all the characters have GOOD reasons for doing what they're doing, and even can have admirable goals, but end up being at odds with each other without even meaning to.

[Watch a character-driven show like "Lost" for a great example of this.]

In general, even "bad" guys don't think they're that bad and often have understandable reasons for their choices. You're a good writer if you can make a bad character sympathetic to the readers, without him becoming a "good" guy.

Wish I had more time, this is a big topic.

But write. Write. Read. Write. And write some more. Everything is always a draft, don't feel compelled to edit until you finish some drafts. Have an idea where things might go, but let the characters make their own choices. If you get the characters established, they will write the story for you and you'll experience it unfolding as the reader would.

[Dirty-American-Devil]

what on earth is a memor?

It could be my spelling that is causing confusion, but a 'Memor', is a book on and about my life percieved by me.

I share very little with my family in regards to my life, very very little. I always thought writing a memor would make everyone I know shit thier pants because I love hearing the assumptions of my past they make up, which are so incorrect.

I just need to marry an English Professor ^^.

I do have this one blog out there, that I post on sometimes. I did it originally to improve my grammar, spelling, and vocabulary. Only thing it helps is the later two, though I'm trying to get my theres done correctly.

[Mr.Miagi]

It could be my spelling that is causing confusion, but a 'Memor', is a book on and about my life percieved by me.

I share very little with my family in regards to my life, very very little. I always thought writing a memor would make everyone I know shit thier pants because I love hearing the assumptions of my past they make up, which are so incorrect.

I just need to marry an English Professor ^^.

I do have this one blog out there, that I post on sometimes. I did it originally to improve my grammar, spelling, and vocabulary. Only thing it helps is the later two, though I'm trying to get my theres done correctly.


I think you are referring to a 'memoir.' This is usually written much later on life, where the main character (author) reflects on certain chronological events that had a big impact on his or her's life.

[Ghost-Girl]

I should write a book.

[digitalentropy]

I wrote one... in my head.

Well, on paper I have the entire history of a fictional world going back as far as the creation of the pantheon of deities that rule the universe, the history of the world, flavor lore for locations and people as well as the histories of all the characters.

Of course, once that's all said and done, I found the actual implementation of to be a drag. All the little conversations and scenes. It's especially annoying because I know what happens so I want to skip all the mundane 'filler' and get right to all the exciting action and gripping drama.

I figured if I could sit down and write a chapter a day that it wouldn't be so bad, but it's the sitting down and writing a chapter a day part that I'm having trouble with, heh.

[sandwich]

digitalentrophy has been bumping a lot of old threads, but this is probably the best! I'm inspired to write more now- I don't know how many times I've "started" writing a novel, but usually I write a chapter, put it down, come back, see all the terribly phrased sentences and other errors and grow so disgusted with myself that I never look at it again.

Headphonez has a story floating around here somewhere...

[Nighthawk]

I've translated a few military history books from German to English. Each was 600+ pages. Not sure if that counts as authoring. They are in print and circulation however.

[digitalentropy]

digitalentrophy has been bumping a lot of old threads, but this is probably the best! I'm inspired to write more now- I don't know how many times I've "started" writing a novel, but usually I write a chapter, put it down, come back, see all the terribly phrased sentences and other errors and grow so disgusted with myself that I never look at it again.

Headphonez has a story floating around here somewhere...

If I haven't seen it, it's new to me. :blush:

Was just always taught it's better to bump an old thread, than to start a new one on the same topic. ;)

But I'm the same way. I'll write something I think is amazing, but then I'll come back to it awhile later and the ideas are so outdated now (since I'm always revising the overall concept) it's not even worth working on anymore IMO.

[sandwich]

If I haven't seen it, it's new to me. :blush:

Was just always taught it's better to bump an old thread, than to start a new one on the same topic. ;)

But I'm the same way. I'll write something I think is amazing, but then I'll come back to it awhile later and the ideas are so outdated now (since I'm always revising the overall concept) it's not even worth working on anymore IMO.

I'm not complaining :cheers:

[Varelse]

I wrote a fantasy novelette for a school project once. We were given the choice of either doing that or historical fiction.

Though my teacher seemed quite disturbed by my writing-her experience with fantasy seemed to consist largely of LOTR. Plus it was too dark for her taste.:banghead: Must edit that again....

I've also done some short stories, and I have a novel that I'm currently working on-when I get to it.

And I actually posted something instead of merely coming up with a response in my head, then considering the problem solved in my mind, and never posting it.:huh:

[Sojourner]

I've always wanted to write a great novel, but I can't seem to finish any novel. I'm not sure if the problem is innate, or if I just need a mentor.

[Hustler]

I'm only published in some magazines. Maybe I ought to write a book though.

[Prothero]

Mentally, first distinguish in your head whether you plan to write a book or sell a book. Occassionally writers are fortunate that the book they want to write is also a book that will sell; but in general, if you can separate the two desires up front, you won't be as disappointed later.

I think this is about the best advice I've ever read on the subject of writing anything longer than a few pages.
Some advice will lay down rules to follow as though language is a never changing absolute. Others, closer to the truth (at least for writing fiction) will explain that the requirements serve as nothing more than loose, subjective guidelines, believing that anything that flows from the mind is superior to a readable page. I like to believe the best approach is somewhere in between. A fiction writer should be willing to try just about anything, but should also know enough to understand what rule argues against it, and why it is necessary to disregard it for the sake of the work.
Yet Fortunato brings up a truth that sounds so simple that many aspiring writers never bother to consider what it means (assuming they give it any thought at all.) Why are you writing? The answer can be surprising.

Of several books I've written, the two that were published received some nice reviews, but the sales were less than encouraging. I now regret that I let someone else convince me to market them. I didn't write them with that in mind, and after watching the royalties decline, I realized how much pleasure the desire to sell could take out of writing.

[MiasmaResonance]

I am attempting to write a book about the topic of microwave radiation in space. I'm finding it hard to concentrate on writing, though. I come up with an idea, write it down, and then think of something new and better to write.

[Jonah Davids]

I should write a book!

I want to have written a book rather than actually write it. Thought-to-paper is too laborious and time-consuming. I wish I could simply just imprint themes and emotions and characters into people's brains. I feel like there's some art form out there that could do this best, but I'll be damned if I know what it is. Probably not writing. Music? Eh. I don't know. I'll have to think about it.

[Merak]

I suspect that just about everyone has thought about writing a novel at some point in their lives. I could give a lot of different advice, but I fear that I will be unable to make it concise and to the point.

The one piece advice I will give, is that writing is a lifestyle. It is unlikely that you will simply come up with a single story idea, and then write it out and be done with it. I'd argue that most (if not all) successful writers are constantly "writing" in their minds. It then just becomes setting aside the time to put it down on paper.

So basically to repeat what has already been said: Write, and then write some more. As long as you are writing something, the story will eventually come together. And besides, we are INTPs; our greatest strength in writing novels is not writing well on the first go, but (over)analyzing the rewrites to turn an average story into an excellent story.

[kali]

I suspect that just about everyone has thought about writing a novel at some point in their lives. I could give a lot of different advice, but I fear that I will be unable to make it concise and to the point.

The one piece advice I will give, is that writing is a lifestyle. It is unlikely that you will simply come up with a single story idea, and then write it out and be done with it. I'd argue that most (if not all) successful writers are constantly "writing" in their minds. It then just becomes setting aside the time to put it down on paper.

So basically to repeat what has already been said: Write, and then write some more. As long as you are writing something, the story will eventually come together. And besides, we are INTPs; our greatest strength in writing novels is not writing well on the first go, but (over)analyzing the rewrites to turn an average story into an excellent story.

The jig is up. What books have you written and can you link them?

[spamtar]

One book?! Yell I have 10 books (just not edited yet most are internet forum postings). I am hoping someone will put it together after I die.

[Llewellyn]

I have a series of poems, tons of notes, and would like to write essays and short stories. That's not getting far yet. So a book is still far away, maybe when I'm older. Until then I'm satisfied with the short things. Lately when I tried a story (http://dirkjanvanleeuwen.blogspot.com/2009/11/part-of-novel.html) (a.o. about writing) in a weblog entry I didn't get beyond one and a half page and thought I had told everything. It turned out still more poetical than novel-like, and that's fine.

As writing is concerned I'm not too fond of looking back, just like others I like to go on to something new every time, or it has to be things from far back, and then I also don't know if that's too advantageous. I also feel like I'm a slow writer, and reader (e.g. here on the forums). But I do write all the time (with only some days excepted), just writing down any thought or experience or theory in short lines, that could be my advice. I actually wonder I'd readily use the kind of guides that are recommended, in stead go for genre-less and see what it turns out like, but that would depend on what you want.

[Martavious]

Ancient thread, but I'll chime in with a tip that could have saved me a couple years of progress:

The introduction, to anything, does not need to be written first. For me at least, it is easier in any position but the first. The key is reaching critical mass, and the explosion which follows will clear a path for your writing, and hopefully complete it.

[spamtar]

Ancient thread, but I'll chime in with a tip that could have saved me a couple years of progress:

The introduction, to anything, does not need to be written first. For me at least, it is easier in any position but the first. The key is reaching critical mass, and the explosion which follows will clear a path for your writing, and hopefully complete it.

Good point. I think I would like to start at the end or near the end and write the novel back wards, with occasional nonlinear leaps of time,

[Curtis24]

And if you've written a book, has it helped get you laid?

[spamtar]

And if you've written a book, has it helped get you laid?

I haven’t written it yet but the title is a "paramours manifesto". the book has yet to be edited but it works...but also...the saying...use it before you lose it also applies...the strategy get rusty without practical applications.

[Jonah Davids]

So basically to repeat what has already been said: Write, and then write some more. As long as you are writing something, the story will eventually come together.

This is, in my albeit limited experience, true a good deal of the time.

And on that note, to help out there's this tool I first heard of via the NaNoWriMo crowd: Write Or Die (http://writeordie.drwicked.com/)

[stigmatica]

I wrote a book once, and then lost it to a failed hard drive. Following the disaster, I made a 2nd mistake and bought a "superdisk" drive for backups. :mellow:

Anywho... my book was scifi, and my method was as follows, roughly...

I came up with a concept first, and then brainstormed several sub concepts from that. Described the world in which I was creating to myself and on paper and in my head and on the toilet and in the tub... etc.. until it was real too me. Then I did the same for some characters, etc.. then the plot.. then I started writing... and writing.. and editing.. and cussing.. and changing.. and adding.. and editing.. and then I lost it all. Sailors would have been scared of me that day. I also lost several other projects I'd been working on, a couple of online games I wrote which you can still find all over the net today were in the lost drive as well. The code lost forever. And no, I won't tell. Revealing the games would reveal me :D

[MontyBrogan]

I compiled a manuscript from my various published short stories and poems. I am not finished the editing process but want to approach an agent with the work. The accumulation is close to 400 pages, single-spaced, font 12.

[md5fungi]

Has anyone ever written a book?

Yes, someone has written a book before.