Hello! Writing my first novel after a 20 year writers block

SamanthaDrake · Dec 9, 2019

Six months ago I was finally able to get past my anxiety about writing and I have not been able to stop writing since. The book I'm writing is urban fantasy/romance and I'm trying to take something that has been done and put a unique twist on it plus say something meaningful while still being entertaining. Yeah, I have my work cut out for me. Writing in the first person was my biggest struggle but I'm starting to get the hang of it. I started my book two times, got to chapter 7, and had to start over. The third time I spent a month plotting the book out to the end and am now on the 18th chapter with my goal being 25 chapters for the first draft. I am so excited! My biggest issue is having someone to discuss writing with and to get a critique on what I am doing. I have to say my first draft is a damn mess, but there is lots of good stuff. I've been calling my dialogue 'placeholders' just because I am trying not to dwell on how bad it is. The good news is I see myself grow as a writer with each chapter. I can't believe I am finally doing it.

Enlightened · Dec 9, 2019

Hello Samantha and :welcome:

Nice to finally start something you're excited about. Wonderful when that happens.

rchapman1 · Dec 10, 2019

Congratulations Samantha. It is a great achievement. I too usually write in the first person and find it easier than writing in the third. As you say, you grow as you write and I'm sure you'll end up holding your very own book in your hands - a truly great feeling.

regdog · Dec 10, 2019

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NadiaBlair · Dec 10, 2019

Hi Samantha,

Congrats on getting back to your writing! That's awesome.

Klope3 · Dec 10, 2019

You sound a bit like me--I meandered through several novel projects ever since middle school, pantsing before I even knew the term, and never saw any of it through to the end. A couple of years ago, when I finally finished my first book, it had taken me six whole years (unacceptable in light of my career goals). But this year, after taking a while to do detailed worldbuilding, make a full outline that I actually liked, and set a weekly quota for myself, I finished my second book in a single summer. Plotters unite!

You should reach your 50 post minimum (but not too fast!) so you can post some of that draft you mentioned. I'm sure you have something valuable to add to the world of books, even if it does take some time to tease it out.

Velcro · Dec 10, 2019

20 years writer's block? That is quite an achievement to overcome that. Congratulations and keep up the good work!

Hello! Writing my first novel after a 20 year writers block

SamanthaDrake

Enlightened

Always Learning

rchapman1

regdog

The Scavengers

NadiaBlair

Klope3

Velcro

Scribbling Scribe