Everything You Need To Know Before You Write Your First Novel.

Lately I’ve seen a plethora of blog posts on this subject. “10 Things You Should Know Before Writing Your First Novel”,  “5 Things I Wish I’d Known Before Writing My First Novel”, “16 1/2 Things You Better Learn Before Writing Your First Novel”.

The articles range from helpful and informative to downright snarky, and I disagree with them all.

I am so grateful that I knew nothing at all when I wrote my first novel.

 

A Different Kind of Distraction

There are lots of things that distract me from my work in progress. Television, internet, the great book I’m reading and my new kitty who insists that IT’S TIME TO PET LUCY NOW all make the list.  Yesterday, I spent two hours looking at Star Trek items on Etsy searching for a mug that says, “Tea. Earl Grey. Hot.”  The night before I started researching underwear in the 1880’s (which was totally legitimate writing work) and then ended up at Western Emporium getting way too excited about this dress that I don’t need, would never wear, and can’t afford. But look how pretty!

As shiny and fun as those distractions are, there’s another kind I’ve discovered that needs to be carefully managed if I’m ever going to finish a story.