The "Behind the Scenes" Story of Writing My First Novel
Instead of the usual quick tips and tricks, I’m taking a moment to chat more about my own path through the maze of writing my first novel. I’m opening up about what got me started, the bumps along the way, and why I keep at it, even when it gets tough.
The Inspiration Behind My Novel
It all started with a dream. Not just any dream, but one so vivid and compelling that it jolted me awake in the middle of the night, desperate to capture its essence. This wasn't just a fleeting shadow of the night; it was the seed of what would become my first major writing project. I scrambled to jot down the fragments as they raced through my mind, fearing they’d slip away with the morning light. Little did I know, this frantic midnight scribbling session was the beginning of my journey into novel writing.
The themes of my book, Shadows of Tomorrow, are a mix of time travel, science fiction, and historical drama. The narrative unfolds across three different timelines—the 1800s, the 1970s, and the mid-21st century. Each era is not just a backdrop but a pivotal player in the story, weaving a complex tapestry of human connections that defy the boundaries of time.
From Dreams to Reality
I've often described the process of writing this novel as "pantsing" through the story—writing without a strict outline or plan. This approach allowed the characters and plot to develop organically, surprising even me at times with the directions they took. While this method filled the pages with spontaneous creativity, it also set the stage for a daunting task: editing.
Editing a manuscript that was written without a traditional outline is like sculpting a detailed figure from a block of marble—you know there’s something beautiful inside, it just takes a lot of chipping away to reveal it. I found myself reworking entire chapters, refining plot points, and deepening character arcs to ensure coherence and continuity. The freedom of "pantsing" gave birth to the story, but the discipline of editing is shaping it into a novel.
Balancing Life and Writing
Writing this book wasn’t just a creative challenge, it was what kept me grounded during some really tough times lately. When things got too overwhelming, or I felt boxed in during the lockdowns, diving into my story gave me a little breathing room. It was more than just a distraction. It felt like a necessity.
While writing has been a vital escape, it's also taught me something unexpected about handling real-life challenges—like my struggles with social settings. Honestly, going out with friends or stepping into a crowded room can still be tough. I'm often just a bundle of nerves, wondering if I can really handle it.
But here's where the writing mindset kicks in. Just as I focus intensely when shaping a scene or developing a character, I've learned to apply that same level of concentration when I'm out with friends. I pay close attention to every conversation, every expression. It’s about being fully present in the moment. I usually stick to just one beer to keep my mind sharp, allowing me to focus solely on the people I'm with and block out everything else around me.
This technique doesn't make the nervousness vanish, but it helps me manage it. I still have fun, I laugh, I engage—and most importantly, I enjoy the time with my friends despite the background noise of anxiety. It's not perfect, but it's a big step for me. Writing didn't just help me craft stories; it helped me live in my own story more fully, without always feeling like an outsider looking in.
What's next?
Writing "Shadows of Tomorrow" has been more than just penning a story; it's been a journey of self-discovery and coping. Through the chapters of my novel, I've found pieces of myself and strategies to handle the realities of my everyday life. This book isn't just a product of my imagination—it's a reflection of my growth, my struggles, and my triumphs.
As I continue on this path, editing and preparing for the daunting world of publishing, I invite you all to join me. Whether you're a fellow writer, a dreamer, or just someone who loves a good story, I value your input and companionship.
What parts of your own life resonate with these experiences? Do you find certain creative outlets help you manage life's challenges too?
Thank you for taking the time to read about my journey. I'm excited to eventually share the complete story of "Shadows of Tomorrow" with you, and I hope it resonates with you as much as it has with me. Until then, keep creating, keep dreaming, and let's keep the conversation going.
Bonus Information for you
I drafted a small blurb about my novel, after all the "behind the scenes" action, a treat was in order. It gives you an idea what I am working on, in hopes to maybe get some feedback on your thoughts. Also, created with Illustrator and Photoshop, the cover I imagine the book will have.
"Shadows of Tomorrow" weaves a tapestry of lives across centuries, connected by the legacy of choices and the shadows they cast on the future. From the gold-dusted dreams of the 19th century to the uncertain heartbeats of the 20th, and into a speculative future fraught with cosmic peril at the second half of the 21st century.
This novel explores the interconnectedness of humanity through time. As characters navigate their desires, losses, and hopes, they uncover the intricate web of time that binds them, revealing that every moment holds the power to echo through history.
A compelling journey of discovery, legacy, and the enduring human spirit, "Shadows of Tomorrow" is a testament to the timeless nature of human connection and the impact of our choices across generations.
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