How to Write a Novel (and a Little Bit Extra)

I had this clever post started about all the 'How to Write a Novel' posts that were appearing online. Then it fermented for a few days, more posts appeared, and I had nothing relelvant to say...again. In fact, Andy Wheeler posted on the SFBC blog a round-up of most of the posts, so there's no need for me to list them again when I can link to Andy's post.

There are two I like, though. The first one I saw was from Justine. I like how she works. If I ever started writing novels, I think I would try her way. I also like how pithy and straightforward she is. There's a no-nonsense but encouraging tone that I like to it.

I also like Toby Buckell's because he apparently starts writing a novel by napping. Or 'plotting' as he describes it.

I know that some writes were skeeved out by the fact that Justine uses a spreadsheet for writing, but I think it could be a handy tool for an unorganized, inexperienced writer. It could also become a tool to procrastinate with, which is what I would likely do. Update: I think I should add that I like this aspect of Justine's writing advice because I use a mad amount of spreadsheets to plan the zine; which I'll post about over the next few months.

I wasn't going to do this, but I think I'll give a little advice. This is what I always tell people when they ask me how to become a published writer (I think I usually get asked for advice on becoming a successful writer--as an editor they think I have an inside track or something?--but I quickly derail the thought of success and tell them to focus on getting published first, and then work on success later). So without further ado, John Klima's five rules to becoming a published writer:

1. Write
   
2. Send stories out
   
3. Revise
   
4. Write
   
5. Write
   
6. (bonus sixth rule for genre people) Go to conventions
   

See? Simple. Everyone I know who's become a published writer--and ALL of the successful writers I know--either write every day or almost every day. It becomes like brushing teeth, or eating (two things that go well together) and the day feels wrong if they don't write. And the sixth point is paramount for genre writers. It's the best way to meet editors and talk to them about what they're looking for; to talk to published authors and learn what they did; to soak in the world--irritations and annoyances included--that makes up the wonder of the genre.

I'm not giving away trade secrets here, just reinforcing that you need to be persistant to get anywhere. If you don't have the motivation to write every day, you probably won't be published.

Tags: Science Fiction, Electric Velocipede, writing, Justine Larbalestier