National Novel Writing Month is an institution. November would seem so boring and listless without the scramble to put fifty thousand words on the page (ok, there is Thanksgiving, but still).
Believe it or not, there are more than a few writers in the world who have not made the leap into the land of NaNoWriMo. Shocking, I know. But I think those of us who embrace the frenzy are called upon to give them a nudge.
So next week's blogs will be devoted to your opinions. Why do you participate (or not)? What does NaNoWriMo do for you as a writer? Maybe it's inspiration, a kick in the pants, or the sense that you're not alone. Perhaps it's the motivation you need to start working on that idea rolling around in your brain.
What would you say to a writer on the fence about taking a month of their life for the project? Maybe they should run screaming in the other direction, or maybe they should embrace the challenge.
Whatever your opinion, positive or negative, we'd like to hear it. Keep your reply to 100 words or less, and include a link to your website or blog. Email submissions to dallenco[at]gmail[dot]com.
Here's a few links to get you into the spirit:
Are you planning to do NaNoWriMo? Is it your first time, or are you a veteran?
I'm thinking of doing it this year...but I have a three month old baby, a two-year-old, and a four-year-old that I'm homeschooling! Is it possible???
ReplyDeleteI'm in. Well, maybe not. No, I'm really going to do it especially because I failed miserably (miserably because I came down with bronchitis at the start of the frenzy) last year and refuse to let that be my last best effort. And, honestly, I do enjoy the "just write, don't edit" mantra and know it is something that I need to work on in my own writing. It is freeing yet challenging all at the same time.
ReplyDeleteI'm thinking about doing the Picture Book Idea challenge during the month. In the next week, I'm trying to map out some doable goals for my work in 2012. I don't think NaNoWriMo is part of that. I tried it in 2009, but morning sickness, a kitchen remodel and federal jury duty derailed me. I've considered trying to salvage my work for a short story. Still contemplating that one. I look forward to your posts on the topic.
ReplyDeleteThis is the first of heard of this site/event. I just might do it. First I need to read up more about it. I have a second novel that needs writing...this may be the jolt I need to get going. Thanks!
ReplyDelete@Faith: Don't worry--the majority of people don't make the 50K, me included. But every word you write is one that probably wouldn't have been written otherwise!
ReplyDelete@WB: Looking forward to seeing you there!
@Stacy: That sounds like a great alternative for picture book writers. Didn't you do that last year? Or am I thinking of something else?
@Leah: Check it out. Nano is so much fun, even if you don't make it to 50K!
~Debbie
I'm definitely participating this year - I do pretty much every year. But this time I'll be attempting to write two novels!
ReplyDeleteHhhhmmm ... to NaNo or not to NaNo ... I've done it twice. Once successfully. One not.
ReplyDeleteAm I going to do it?
Probably not.
I'm working on a real-world deadline this year ... novel edits.
In the two years
ReplyDelete9three if you include this one) that I've been aware of Nanowrimo, I haven't been able to participate, having been already stuck into one project or another. I might consider it this year... but I've found that I don't really need any extra motivation. The challenge is appealing though.
@Trisha: Two novels? Go for it! I'll stick to my one, thank you, but I'll be eager to hear how it goes.
ReplyDelete@Beth: Edits can definitely cramp your style. I usually try to come up with a new idea and first chapter for the PPW contest, and then flesh it out during Nano. I don't do 50K, but it gives me something solid to build on.
@S.M.: You pretty much do Nanowrimo year round. I agree you don't need the motivation. But there's a significant number of folks who try to double the number of words expected in November. That be a challenge for you!
~Debbie
Debbie, I've not done that challenge. I saw your comment on how you use your nano time for the PPW contest. Very good idea. I think there is a workshop about that contest tonight, but I'm unable to attend.
ReplyDeleteThe PPW has a downloadable file that gives tips on making your entry the best you can. Last year (for the first time) I had my crit group analyze my entry. They were really helpful improving my synopsis, since synopsis writing is not a talent of mine. The contest gives such great feedback, it's always worth the cost.
ReplyDelete~Debbie