HGZero's rambelings Assignment 1
How can I become a better writer?
I spend a lot of time thinking of how I want a story to go. In my mind I develop a character, carve the plot down to a desired path, and ponder what a good ending might be. Once I sit down to type things tend to go differently. The process of writing often feels like opening up a part of my soul and each word that comes out is not only showing what I see happening but also driving it along. With the case of such duality I find my characters often develop and take a life of their own. I do not let them run wild but I understand that I can only truly understand them though their actions. With long works and a steady stream of action the story adjusts and grows. I get to know the characters better.
I have heard that there are two different schools of thought when it comes to writing character driven stories. One is that they are my puppets and the idea that they have a life of their own is laughable. The other is what I know to be true for me. Characters are meant to be alive. When writing I understand that there are only so many plot points, so many twists, and so many ideas. I have readers who want more not because my story is the next di vin chi code, but because they miss my characters.
I am aware that though editing, rewriting, and sharing that I control every aspect of my story. I grow in my ability to tell stories and I try to remember the tips I read. I started writing for my self, and kept writing for my characters. Now I write to share the joy they bring me with others.
What I learned:
I have learned there are things I still do not understand about writing. Much of what I read in the posts confused me at several points. I have to admit my writing style is my own and while I try to read any tip others have about the art I work very carefully not to give my own. I am not sure if I will ever be good enough to give counsel. I have friends with stacks of books on writing. I have a few myself. What I have learned is that nothing beats experience. I am sure all of the tips come from experience and that I just lack enough to understand.
P.S.: I held off on doing this assignment for a long time. When I write I can let my work speak for it's self. When I talk about my writing in an abstract form such as skill I often see my own confidence bleed though to boasting. In my own mind I am a masterful writer. I am better than most at my level and am destined for greatness. In my own mind. When I feel myself grow as a writer it is both exciting and humbling. My work will always be the next one. I keep try to keep this in mind when I am getting my work edited, reviewed, and revised, but it is never easy. I love praise, but I also thrive off of bad news. I praise myself all the time so never worry that what you say might be too harsh. In a forum that is there for a lifestyle that can embrace pain as a form of pleasure, don't feel the need to hold back.
