The Writing Process for Authors: Skipping Around vs Linear
As an author, I confess that my writing process often involves a lot of jumping around. Unlike some who prefer to start with the most exciting scene, I find that this approach can leave gaps that need to be filled in. In my writing journey, I start with a basic timeline and then work to ensure that the narrative flows cohesively, even when the pieces don’t fit in a linear fashion.
Author Preferences and Story Structure
The way authors write is highly individual and can vary greatly depending on the story itself. For instance, some authors prefer to begin with the most exhilarating moments, leading to flash-forwards and flashbacks rather than sticking to a strict chronological order. This approach can be thrilling and engaging for readers, but it’s not always the most practical or reader-friendly method.
Furthermore, readers’ preferences can be inconsistent, and often, the expectations of authors, publishers, and readers don't align. For years, there was a trend to focus all stories on a fifth-grade reading level, a notion that was misguided and unsupported. This caused significant drops in profits, as the rigid structure didn't cater to adult readers who could manage more complex narratives.
Most authors, however, begin with the initial instigating event rather than the most exciting scene. Taking this route ensures that the story has a solid foundation and natural flow, which is far more effective in engaging readers. This method of starting with the core events helps the narrative progress smoothly, even if the writing process is not linear.
Challenges and Motivation
Writing isn’t just about completing a project; it’s about personal growth and intellectual challenges as well. I focus on stories that challenge me as an author, rather than on what publishers believe will sell best at the moment. Many of the trends and expectations in the publishing world are inconsistent, making it difficult to predict what will be successful. This inconsistency can lead to frustration for both authors and publishers, as they struggle to align their goals with those of the market.
When it comes to writing, authorial motivation and the ideas that click are crucial. Often, these ideas push authors to explore different parts of the story, jumping around and testing the waters with the plot. This method may not be as efficient as starting from the beginning, but it allows for a richer and more dynamic narrative.
It’s important to note that even with this jumping around, authors still need to ensure that the story has a solid framework. Without a clear timeline and structure, the narrative can become disjointed and difficult to follow. Therefore, while some writers may start with the most exciting scene, it’s often more beneficial to focus on the beginning events and build from there, even if it means revisiting and rearranging the plot later.
Ultimately, the writing process for authors is a blend of creativity, intuition, andstructure. While some writers may prefer linear processes, it’s clear that skipping around can lead to more engaging and dynamic stories, provided the author maintains a coherent narrative throughout.
Conclusion
The writing process for authors is not one size fits all. Some authors prefer to start with the most exciting scenes, while others, like myself, find it more effective to start with the initial events and build from there. The key is to find a balance between creativity and structure, ensuring that the story is engaging and coherent. What matters most is the quality of the writing and the satisfaction of the reader.
In the end, whether you choose to write linearly or skip around, the important thing is that the story resonates with your audience. So, embrace the process, challenge yourself, and let the narrative flow where it needs to go.