Idea Overload, part IV/Call for Submissions

If you have more story ideas than you know what to do with, try this tip:

As you begin writing your story, a new story idea often rears its shiny-as-a-freshly-minted-dime head. By this time the story is getting more difficult to write. The shine has worn off the original idea. This happens to most writers regardless of the genre. Let’s face it, writing is HARD work. And the farther we are into the manuscript the more puzzle pieces we have to fit together to make the story work. Writers thrust characters into difficult situations and continue to pile onto their problems, but eventually, writers have to find ways for the characters to work their way out of the problems. No easy task.
 

The bright idea on which the story is based grows dimmer and dimmer. While you work your way through the story, you’re practicing the craft of writing and gaining experience one word at a time. Even after you walk away from the actual writing, you continue to dwell on the plot and character. Letting ideas simmer is a great way to work through a problem the character has encountered. Keep tossing around ideas (geared toward the character and the unique set of problems) and you will probably figure out a way to move the story forward. Remain focused on this story. Chances are, the new idea won’t be any better than the one used to create this story.

Next week, I’ll continue the series.
 

Call for submissions for adult writers:

The Quirk Books “Looking for Love” Fiction Contest is accepting submissions for novel-length manuscripts featuring fresh, fun, and strikingly unconventional love stories. Boy meets girl, girl meets shark, shark meets pirate – anything goes. Grand prize includes $10,000 and publication by Quirk Books. There is no entry fee. Deadline: October 1, 2013.

Submission guidelines at http://www.quirkbooks.com/lovestories

 Check out more contests on my blog: http://nancykellyallen.blogspot.com/