 Purpose: To share and encourage. Writers can express doubts and concerns without fear of appearing foolish or weak. Those who have been through the fire can offer assistance and guidance. It’s a safe haven for insecure writers of all kinds! |
The awesome co-hosts for the November 1 posting of the IWSG are PJ Colando, Jean Davis, Lisa Buie Collard, and Diedre Knight!
Every month, we announce a question that members can answer in their IWSG post. These questions may prompt you to share advice, insight, a personal experience or story. Include your answer to the question in your IWSG post or let it inspire your post if you are struggling with something to say.
November 1 question: November is National Novel Writing Month. Have you ever participated? If not, why not?
I almost missed this month’s posting! November 1st snuck up on me.
Yes, I’ve participated in National Novel Writing Month. . In fact, that’s what got me hooked on this little endeavor. I didn’t ‘win’ with my first attempt-I only reached 49.000 words- but I realized how much I enjoyed it. I rewrite that book several times, including switching the point of view, but I could never make in into something worth publishing. It was overly-derivative of someone else’s story.
But I learned a lot from the attempt. A year later, I tried again, and that year I reached the goal of over 50,000 words in November. That book wasn’t good enough to take further either, but I learned even more about the process of writing. I have written books during NaNoWriMo that I have published.
I won’t be trying this year. I need to put all my efforts into my WIP. It’s up to 42,000 words and I’m feeling good about it. I’m really stretching my abilities in my current effort, but I think it’ll be worth it.
For folks who haven’t attempted NaNoWriMo and are considering it, I say unleash your creativity go for it. Even if you don’t make the goal, you still win.
By the way, Happy November!
And until next time, please stay safe.
49,000 is close enough for a win!
Yes, it is a great prompt and kick in the butt for those who need it. I enjoyed the two times I participated.
I rewrote that book 3 times, including switching POVs. It was a great learning experience.