I've heard it everywhere that the first step in book writing that actually involves WRITING is the one-sentence summary. You may have to make the time, clear a space, get your materials and thoughts together, give yourself a pep talk, commit yourself to a project, etc., but if you can convey the idea of your story in a one-liner, then you may have a real story on your hands. If not, then maybe you haven't focused your idea enough.
That was certainly true for me. I had a lot of ideas for great characters and scenes, but when I sat down to write my sentence summary, I didn't really know what my story was REALLY about. What was the character's real journey about, besides just the funny and dramatic moments I had collected?
This is an example of a one sentence summary that I found in my new book Book in a Month.
"A Hobbit named Frodo, entrusted with an ancient ring, must now embark on an epic quest to destroy it."
I have no idea if J.R.R. Tolkien began his book with a sentence like that. Brilliant people like that usually have everything mapped out in their heads, but the successful ones usually plan and map it out with intricate detail before writing their first draft.
I can't yet write an article about How to Write a Novel because although I've read a lot about it and know a lot of steps, tips, and strategies, I haven't yet done it. I am currently working on my one-sentence summary, which I feel is a great way to take that first bite of elephant. I guess I 'll let you know how it goes.
No comments:
Post a Comment