My answer: definitely first chapter. That’s the most important, the hook. You want to grab the reader by the collar and never let go. I start writing a book, and the opening seems good, but then as I keep going, I wonder, did the story start earlier? Later? Do I use flashbacks? Should the first scene be dramatic? Do the readers need a stronger sense of place or who the characters are? Ack! It can cause me to get stuck in the muck.
That said, last week, I felt stuck in the muck. I spiraled into self-doubt. Yuck. I didn’t like it, but I wondered if I was being unrealistic, dreaming of living a creative life. Then, I wrote a short story that I could use when I do activities in a memory care center. I read it to the residents who were able to join me that morning. It sparked conversation. They offered feedback! My friend and publicist, Krista at Blue Cottage Agency, said, “You’ve go something here. Keep going.” So, I’m moving out of the spiral. Continuing to do creative jobs and teaching, and writing more stories, for all ages and abilities. God only knows where they will go.
I also like Webber’s Quote of the Day. I’ve never fit into boxes, either. I certainly resist the stereotypes and want to be myself. Hence, Play off the Page. Keep being yourself, writing your stories, making your art, connecting, and you will be successful. That’s my message for all the rest of you IWSG-ers this month.
Journaling Prompt: What sends you into a negative spiral? How do you get out of it?
I find first chapters hard too, but I know that once I’ve written the first draft, the first chapter would get easier. We all suffer from self doubt, but I’m with your friend–you’ve got something there, keep on keeping on!
“Keep being yourself, writing your stories, making your art, connecting, and you will be successful. ” I agree.
Connecting with people and artists from all walks of life is so important to help boost the artistic mindset.
And on the point of connecting – I do believe that there is an inter-connectivity between all types of art.
Just keep on moving forward – one project at a time.
Yes, Michelle. You are so right!
Aren’t you glad you read it to the residents? Keep going with it!
Yes, I am, Alex. Thanks. I need to write more. It sparks conversation which is so important.
The first chapter seems to be popping up a lot as the most challenging part of the story. They are important and need to be well written or reader won’t keep reading.
That’s right. It’s worth all the rewrites!
I don’t fit into any box!!! Keep on writing!
Don’t fence me in, or box me up! You, too, T!
Love that you are always creating! I am so excited about your new book project for memory care patients! You are the perfect writer for this!
Thank you so much. Your support keeps me going!
If you have someone at an agency that says it’s special, then have to keep working on it.
I have always heard it is all about the journey, not the destination, maybe, it is all about the process not the end result? Hmmm,nope maybe not. Middles are my big angst but need help with beginnings too.
Yep. It’s good to have a successful product, too! Something to show for all our hard work.
I’m glad you got a great story going and hope you stick with it. Thanks for sharing that experience and that quote with us!
Thanks, Steven. We are in agreement. You have to write/create what is in you. Boxes are for shipping our books out! Thanks for stopping by. All best!
Congratulations on your new story! It’s great to have a mentor and friend like your Krista.
I’m an “outside of the box” person too. It’s why the corporate world was such hell for me. Companies claimed they’d hired me for my out-of-the-box thinking, and then spent all their time trying to stuff me into one.
Thanks, JH. It’s good to surround yourself with positive people who build you up.