I have almost completed my first draft of my novella - so far I have typed up a reasonable 23,555 words but I'm two chapters away from completion. I'm hoping to write within the novella word count limit although I'm worried on the fact my story cannot be published or the plot might confuse readers.
As I was typing I knew straight away that there are some bits that are in need of changing or tweaking but that could be done during the editing process.
I am asking, whether anyone has written a first draft story and thought of making big changes or cutting things out - things that aren't relevant or anything you feel that drags the story. Have you shared your drafts with others such as friends or family?
How would you make sure your story is completed to your standards?
Thank you everyone for your answers, much appreciated!! :)
They are very helpful and informative!! :D
At a 'How to Hook an Agent' workshop, the advice given was to get your novel to first draft, leave it a couple of months and then go back to it for editing; read each chapter out loud and have the courage to cut out chunks you feel don't drive the story forward.
Select a couple of people who will give you honest and constructive feedback to read your manuscript. Remember that if you are asking for feedback you need to be prepared to hear some things you may not like.
My partner has been a great source of constructive feedback for my first novel, reading each chapter several times as I wrote and edited. I've also asked 4 friends for feedback and each one has picked up on different areas, and some on the same points. I've valued all of their responses. Most of their suggestions I've taken on board. Sometimes I've cut out 1,500 words from a chapter.
Being close to the work it's hard to really SEE how the story unfolds for the reader. I've now had my full manuscript red by a professional editor (paid) through Writer's Workshop and a whole lot more changes will be needed.
If you view feedback as criticism it may upset you, but if you view it as part of learning the craft, you'll grow as a writer.
Enjoy finishing your novel and the editing process.
Hi Jannie, its good to hear that you are about to finish the first draft of the novel. Just few advice from my side :
1. There are no specifications for the word count for the novel. It's according to you how much length you can write it.
2. Regarding the suggestions from family/friends... No need to explain them about your novel or show them. Just keep it secret with you till you are done with the final draft. Because you never know what type of response you get... Either they may criticize your work.. or applaud it to the core.. So you should not get diverted by those factors...
3. And the last one... You should do 'N' number of re-writing or drafting works before you finish your novel. When you give it to the publisher you should feel the professionalism in your work.