Novel writing is undoubtedly one of the most fascinating activities one can engage in. In fact, if you have expertise writing fiction, transitioning to novel writing is pretty simple. Prioritize the attention of your reader when creating a novel. Here is some advice on how to start writing a novel.
First line
We’ve talked a lot about novel structure, with a particular emphasis on creating a strong first line, the first fifty pages, and finishing Act One so far. If you’ve done a good job setting those up, it will be much simpler to transition into the middle section. Your characters and tale are now moving along wonderfully, and you’re really cooking!
The middle section, though, is what most writers struggle with (and causes the novel editor a lot of work). This takes up more than half of your book. This is where the tale and the characters really get fleshed out. where you veer off on various side paths that all finally converge on the central idea, the motivation. In other words, the book’s midpoint will either make or break your novel.
Book’s setup
Sagging middles are the most common sightings here. Yes, the book’s setup is excellent. And it all comes to a nice end. However, the midsection is either muddled and complicated, or very little happens here. The pacing lags, the characters deviate from the plot question, the book’s middle sags, and your reader has gone off to make a sandwich. He rarely returns after being enticed away. (Good book editing services, either by the writer or with the assistance of a developmental editor, are quite beneficial in this situation.)
So, how can we prevent this from happening? In a term, Plot Points. This section requires a lot to happen, so let’s just hit the highlights.
The beginning of Act Two transports our hero from one realm to another (regardless of the genre). In myth and metaphor, the character would travel through an actual gate, frequently guarded by a guardian, and would have to pass some test to do so. The hero is walking into the unknown, and some must be booted through it!
Constructing an Imaginary Setting
Novel writing is a creative process, and you never know when a good idea will strike. Carry a notebook and pen with you, or their digital equivalents, so you can jot down ideas anywhere. Include scribbled sentences, fragments, single words, and even doodles in your story. [1]
However, do not simply wait for inspiration to strike. Seek out instances of exceptional originality to inspire your own. Your source of inspiration need not be a book; it could be a television show, a movie, or even a visit to an exhibition or art gallery. Inspiration comes in innumerable varieties!
Consider an aspect of your own life that has inspired, troubled, or intrigued you; how can you explore this topic in greater depth in a novel?
Do research
The amount of research you need to do will depend on the novel you write. Research for a historical fiction set during the Revolutionary War, for example, may be more copious than that for a young adult novel inspired by your own experiences. In any case, do enough research to make sure that your novel feels believable, no matter the subject matter.[7] [8]
- Even if you’re writing a futuristic sci-fi novel or a fantasy epic, use scientific and/or historical research to give your created world a realistic grounding.
- Writing fiction rather than nonfiction does not make you immune from plagiarism. If you’re drawing from other sources, make sure to identify them through citations or acknowledgments.
- As with other types of planning, walk the fine line between skimping on your research and letting it block your path to actually writing. Trust your instincts.
In the following stage
she will face tests, allies, and foes. The hero is put through a series of mini tests that train her in specific skills. Many are related to the establishment of a group or allies. As the hero unites with one side or the other, the polarity/duality increases once more. This is where the hero finds out about the other world. He’s a freshman here, and he’s learning about grace under pressure.
The next stage takes her closer to the center of the story, with the outside conflict reflecting the inside one. The hero must find a way to get through this. It will put her defenses to the test. At this point, everyone’s masks shift. It’s a change in power. People come and go in this town. It is also about planning, reconnaissance, and practice.
Since we are now approaching the key, The character is forced to confront all she has been denying. Her biggest dread. This is the most crucial component and the story’s core. It shifts the focus of life since it is on the verge of life and death (literally or metaphorically, such as when an addict truly decides to get sober). The character can even pass away figuratively. It gives you power. The protagonist is forced to confront aspects of herself that she prefers to avoid.
Next Stage
Your book to be fulfilling, she needs to become adept at this. which leads to the following stage—rebirth. The reward phase is now. In a metaphor, the sword is frequently broken when the hero finds it, and he or she must then fix it. The sword represents strength. However, the hero can now pick up the sword and use it skillfully after facing his greatest fear. The conclusion of the tale reminds us of its purpose! Numerous opportunities open up once the hero survives the previous adversity. He can move forward, backward, sideways, etc. But it’s a moment to rejoice and reflect on all he’s been through. It has the impression of briefly recapitulating the plot so the reader may follow along with the character. A love scene can frequently be found here. She gains new knowledge, intuition, self-realization, etc. as her reward.
Act Two comes to a close, and we’re ready to launch into Act Three and the finale.
So much to do in the editing of a book! Focusing on all of this, and using plot points to keep the novel moving, will carry you through this massive phase of book development with flying colors—no sagging middles!