Most readers (and even some writers) are not aware of the strategies that go into writing fiction. Many non-writers imagine that a novelist simply creates without much thought. They let the story flow through them and onto the screen as they type—tappity, tappity, tap. Perhaps you consider fiction-writing a heart thing—an inspired activity. And so it is for some authors, but only to a point.
There’s a lot of strategy that goes into writing a novel. The author must use his thought process along with his creativity. For example, the elements of the story must work. And this means the author must work to make sure they do. This is a relatively natural process for some. But many novelists today miss this concept altogether. It doesn’t come natural and they don’t have a clue as to how to implement it.
Here are some of the questions that must be considered when writing fiction.
- Is the story logical? In other words, does the overall theme make sense in light of the genre you’re writing in?
- Do the components of the story work together in order to get from point A to point B? Is there a logical flow. Now this doesn’t mean there can’t be surprises and suspense. But when you add these elements, is it still believable?
- Are the details in order?
- Do your characters stay in character? Are your characters so clearly defined that you could almost write your story without giving credit?
- Is there enough suspense or conflict to attract your reader early on?
- Is there a good balance of interesting (suspenseful, clever, humorous, action-packed) elements? Are these elements presented in a natural way or do they seem forced? An astute reader can tell the difference.
- Do you know your subject or have you done the research necessary to give your story a quality of truth?
Many of you reading this could add tremendously to this list. Please do, either by sending your input to me here: PLFry620@yahoo.com or leave a comment at this blog site.
I’ve just finished the first draft of book 11 in my Klepto Cat Mystery series. Book 9, Mansion of Meows was published February 11, 2015. Book 10, PAWtners in Crime is with the formatter now and should be available for your Kindle within the month. Book 6, Celebrity Cat Caper will be available in print (as well as Kindle) today or tomorrow. Here’s the shortcut link to the Klepto Cat Mystery page at Amazon. http://amzn.to/1kAI8I2