It's In My Head

I came across this the other day -- National Novel Writing Month. The basic idea is that you register on their site with the intention of completing a 50,000-word novel during the month of November. That's right, 30 days to write an entire book. Registration is free. The novel must be fiction. And you upload to their mainframe to allow an automated system to check your word count. If you have enough words, and do this all by midnight on 11/30/2006, you are considered "a winner" and you will be listed on their site as such.

For a fleeting moment, I thought about doing this. I have a novel that has been in my head for about three years now. I even started an outline, a character grid, and finished the first chapter (although going back and reading that first chapter now makes me want to start over from scratch). But I digress. This contest seemed like just the ticket to get me off my rear and actually start transcribing this novel that is just sitting in my mind gathering cobwebs. Lord knows that after The Bun arrives I will not have time to write a book. I barely have time now... but a contest like this would perhaps give the motivation to "just do it". Having a definite goal (and timeframe!) in mind helps tremendously.

But I just don't think I can. This story that I want to tell deserves more than a 30-day whirlwind effort. I still have more research to do. I need a better climax and a stronger conclusion. I need to redefine my characters and I want to give every page - alas, every word - some serious thought. Not to mention that 50,000 words doesn't seem like much. It's just that this contest seems very frivolous and my novel is so much more important (to me).

However, this thing could give me the motivation to actually get started and put a major dent in the progress. I need more than an outline and some vague characters to write a novel. Should I do this, even if the rush job turns out to be crap - simply to get something started on paper? Or shall I wait until I really have the time and energy to dedicate myself completely to this endeavor (which may actually be never)? Decisions, decisions.

Comments

[CeCe]

Do it! Then make a "directors cut" later!

[Penny]

Hi K:

I say if you have any level of passion about this, then go for it. You have nothing to lose. I say embrace life's opportunities when you have 'em.

You'll write a quality product, regardless.

All the best,

Penny

[Stormieweather66]

I think you should go for it then like CeCe said you can go back and re-edit it. I can't wait to read it! Good Luck:)

[SDC]

K....Please write the novel. We have talked about you writing a novel since 1998!!! So, this may be a sign for you to fulfill your dream. You are an awesome writer and have a true gift!!! Since you are my best friend, I want to give you a big push; however, if you don't write it this time, I will be on you to write it eventually.

Love,
SDC

[Alexis]

Hi Miss K,
I wanted to read your blog so, I started from the very beginning. I enjoy your thoughts and commitment to growth as a woman and a parent. You need to write your book, you can share so much of who you are even if it's through a fictional read! I believe you should do it. I would love to read it!!!

[leann]

I think you should write it. Get the ideas and plot down on paper. It will be a good jumping off point for you. You obviously have the skill to write, look at your blog!