I'm writing this post just to write something, since I've barely been able to to squeeze out 1500 words over the last five days. And I literally had to force those out. Did I mention that they all suck too?
This isn't writer's block. This is scene block. I'm at the turning point in my story where it starts to build toward the climax, but I can't seem to figure out how to end this stupid scene. And how this scene ends determines the rest of the story, so I can't even skip ahead and work on something else.
I've restarted four times, but I'm still not happy with it. Of those 1500 words I mentioned earlier, I probably won't be keeping any of them, and it isn't a matter of word choice or not liking the writing. It just doesn't feel right. I can't tell if I'm just brain dead and burnout from how much effort I've been putting into this over the last couple of weeks or if something is seriously off in my plot.
Normally, I can discuss it with my husband and figure it out, but for some reason, I can't seem to articulate the problem. I don't even want to work on revising what I already have written, which I normally love to do. This is getting serious, people!
I'm considering plugging back in (this post doesn't count) and ignoring the beast for a week or two, and then trying again. But I want to be done. :( Done, done, done! (Yes, I'm stomping my foot like a toddler.)
The most annoying thing? I thought I had the plot solid, but I change one little thing... Argh!
Anyway.
So, how are all of you doing? :) Anything exciting happen while I was away? You all got book deals, didn't you? That always happens!
No book deals, but we did sell our house after a full year on the market! Big news. :-)
ReplyDeleteI'm sorry to her you're stuck. I get the scene block thing all the time. I'm a pantser, so I get to the end of the scene and it's like--if I end it this way it changes everything in this direction. If I go the other way, it flips that on its head.
ReplyDeleteI'm currently on the third attempt at the scene I'm on, so I know how you feel. Good luck breaking through.
Oh, so sorry you're stuck. I've been there too, I promise!
ReplyDeleteHi! I'm new to your blog and I'm so glad I stopped by (blocked or not!!) I'm your newest follower, cheers!!
Do something mundane and unrelated to writing. It never fails. As soon as you're doing something like that, ideas just burst into your mind. You can do that or brainstorm with a trusted source. My hubby brainstorms with me and it always helps!
ReplyDeleteSorry to hear you're stuck. Cold comfort, I know, but I feel exactly the way you do about my writing. Hopefully it will pass for both of us. :)
ReplyDeleteAre you kidding? I love your writing. The first time I read an excerpt (from Embrol on Roni's blog) I went to your blog to see which books you've published.
ReplyDeleteOk, these suggestions are intended to cheer you up/help you:
1. Don't try to push the scene. Coming up with stuff is elusive. Don't look right at it and let your mind wander.
2. You can try working backwards perhaps? Where do you want to go? Maybe the problem with ending it is because you don't know/can't choose a direction?
3. Work on another piece/book/story for a little bit to get your creativity going or READ somebody else's writing and think about how they made the scenes work, etc. (Try to enjoy it and don't go: omg, it's so good, mine will never be like that : P)
4. Try to be patient and look on the positive side. The fact that you're stuck on this could be an indication that the characters are also stuck/experiencing a dilemma, which is a sign of a complex and interesting plot! This is good : )
5. Consult somebody. Not so much for their input but just so you have to try to explain the problem. You said you're having trouble with that so just ramble about it- it will come out. Ask the other person if they see a problem based on your ramblings. Also, them asking for clarifications on why some stuff is happening could really help you.
Ok, that's all for now. Publication is around the corner, don't worry about that now and don't compare yourself. Plus, think of it this way, right now you're worried about publication but one day you'll have a book published and then what - worry about if you'll get the next one done? If it will be as good enough, etc? I've heard about writers like that. It's the journey that counts and the love for writing and creating. And you have a wonderful voice in your writing.
Keep your head up : )
Plamena
P.S. Thank you so much for your comment on Roni's blog today.
Abby, this sounds so familiar. i have no words of advice. seems you've gotten a truckload of that. just some empathy flowing your way. i could send you something to distract you... but i know you want to get it done.
ReplyDeleteThis happened to me once. My problem was I'd allowed a secondary character to take control of my story. Once I realized this I deleted a couple of chapters, got back on course and it was smooth sailing to the end of the book. Good luck! I'm sure you'll figure out the problem.
ReplyDeleteOh, yes. I've been there. and, you're right. it sucks. some great advice has already been posted so I'll just add one more suggestion:
ReplyDeleteBen and Jerry's.
Lots of it.
Keep your chin up!! You are awesome!! Sometimes Ive heard, getting stuck is a good thing.. When you get unstuck... The whole thing flows. Best of Luck to you!!
ReplyDeleteI swear by hot-tub therapy. Something about the water and warmth and the relaxation frees even the stickiest ending to a scene!
ReplyDeleteOh, Abby, I hear ya! I made so many changes to Evangeline in plot that I hope I caught all the "ripples".
ReplyDeleteEmail me later!
stuck=frustrating. Don't I know it. That is why I am catching up on my shows via hulu instead of writing.
ReplyDeletebut you didn't hear that from me.
*whistles nonchalantly*
Sorry to hear about this. Hope a little break from your MS helps sort out the problems.
ReplyDelete