Whenever I speak to writers’ groups, or academic groups, I am
invariably asked how to get started with their writing. Most everyone feels
they have a story to tell, but they are hesitant. Either they are afraid
to fail, so, they don't start, or they are not sure how to do it.
The most important thing I tell them is to be sure of their
subject. If you love mysteries, as I do, then, stick to mysteries; if it's
romance that floats your boat, then, write romance. DO not, under any
circumstances, write something you know nothing about, it simply won't work.
If you lean towards the autobiographical, then pick one defining
moment in your life and begin there, adding background, before and after, from
that point on. If you can, avoid too many clichés. Writing is not hard,
if you are sure of your facts, sure of the subject matter, and have confidence
to put into words, what your heart and mind are telling you. Even writing
fiction, you must be factual, if you are describing a real place or thing, like
an airliner or ship, do some research, and you'll be better informed, and write
in a knowledgeable way.
When I first began writing fiction, I let my imagination take
flight, and wrote anything I wanted to about places and objects and was called
down by my readers for it. The only exception to this will be fantasy or
futuristic writings, then, let your fantasies take over and be as outrageous as
you like, but, if you are writing in real time, be sure you are accurate.
How do I get started, I am often asked? Well, use whatever venue
you have, pad and pen, word processor, computer, whatever, and tell yourself
you are writing a letter to a good friend, and, telling them about
something. Once you start, the words should come easily. Edit as
you go, and if you are not happy with how you began, after a few paragraphs, or
perhaps a chapter, you can always go back and change it. Just get the feel of
it first, and soon, you'll be writing away, and, before you know it, you'll
have completed the entire book.
A good friend, colleague, or academic can assist you. Let them
proofread your work and offer constructive criticism, it will be very
helpful for the beginner.
Finally, don't force the writing -wait, and let the words come to
you, your story will be better for it.
______________________________________________________________
Jan McCanless is an award winning, bestselling author of
mysteries. The Beryl's Cove mysteries, and the Brother Jerome series. She has
recently completed her third compilation of her humor columns and articles,
and, currently has a manual about writing, in circulation. Her website is www.janmacbooks.com She is listed in Who's Who as a premier Southern Humorist.
Watch for her latest book: Bizarre Brain Drippings of Noted
Sagittarian, and more Thoughts of Home, to be published late fall of
2019.
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