The reason I got the laptop a few weeks ago was as an excuse to get me writing again, not just here on the blog, but actually developing a story and writing. I’ve got the start of something churning around in my head, and I’ve been making bullet lists all weekend. I’ve got a couple characters that are starting to flesh out a bit, and now I’m sitting staring at a map. I’ve been driving my husband mad with “what if” scenarios. It’s complicated in a strange sci-fi alternate history kind of way. I’m not quite sure about some of the ideas I’m throwing around. I think they’re good, and will work for creating some tension, but I’m wondering if I’m going to get lynched down the road.
This part of the process for me is frustrating and fun. Dealing with what could be, and how things have changed throws so much out there to play with. Scrawling notes across a map and changing things around on the landscape is giving me a better sense of where and what I’m dealing with. Their world is starting to become a coherent place, and that in turn is making the characters easier to manipulate. Some of them are still a bit fuzzy around the edges, and there are two who are currently tapping their feet because I’m not moving fast enough.
I’m setting aside mornings for writing, first here, and then take everyone to their various places this morning. When I get back home, it’s going to be sitting and writing for at least two hours, with no interruptions. I’ve already mentioned to the husband that I’m not going to be answering the phone during that time. I’m shooting for a rough outline and a few odd bits to test the waters today.
