The hardest part
of writing, for this writer, is the dreaded first draft. I’m anxious to develop
the story that I believe has a ton of possibilities; yet, I know the initial
enthusiasm will soon wane from an eagerness to an interest and then, in a turn
of directions, to a doubt. Why? Because writing the story is harder, much
harder, than visualizing the concept. In my mind, the story plays out in words
and images, but transposing the words and images into a rhythmic prose form is
a lesson in humility. A series of rewriting is required. Always. I’ve just finished my first draft, and I’m pleased. It’s perfect. The first draft is perfect because it’s written. That means I’ve reached my first goal with this story. The fact that my first draft is terribly written is something I accept. First drafts are supposed to be terrible, and since mine is definitely in that category, it’s perfect. That’s a warped sense of judgment, but it works for me.
I sit here with a first draft that demands a ton of work. My muse murmurs: The story will improve with figurative language. My inner critic, ever the naysayer, whispers: The only figuring for this story is to wad it. Two points if you hit the round file.
Muse and Inner Critic battle.
Time to turn them off and just write.
Next week, I’ll have more on my first draft experience and those two polar opposites, Muse and Inner Critic.
Call
for Submissions for Young Writers:
Teen
Ink has no staff writers; we depend
completely on YOU to send writing, art and photos. There is no charge to submit
or be published and anything you submit will be considered for Teen Ink's
magazine, book series and website.
Call
for Submissions for Adult Writers:
Timeless Tales exclusively publishes
retellings of fairy tales and myths. We only accept submissions that are
retellings of the fairytale or myth listed as our theme. We don't accept
original fairy tales or stories outside of our current theme.
Deadline: May 5
Submission guidelines at http://www.timelesstalesmagazine.com/submissions
Nancy Kelly Allen has written 40+ children’s books and a cookbook,
SPIRIT OF KENTUCKY: BOURBON COOKBOOK. Check out her blog at www.nancykellyallen.com
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