I have written the cover line of the novel and everything else! But my busy schedule considering that this year is the most vital year of my studies makes it hard for me to sit down and write properly! Can anyone advise me?
I have written the cover line of the novel and everything else! But my busy schedule considering that this year is the most vital year of my studies makes it hard for me to sit down and write properly! Can anyone advise me?
To write, we must first have lived. Writers, often, unwittingly, write around, or about things that they have experienced, or have imagined, or things they would like to happen, like winning the Lottery, or taking a special holiday.
An important force writers need is Passion. The passion to write. I have to write, or else, that little voice inside my head drives me crazy, and keeps getting stronger until I do write. I can never see a time when I won't write. I'm hooked.
My question is. Do you have this passion? Or is it just a dream you have? Have you actually started writing? If not, just start. But be warned, you might not be able to stop.
Sorry I've been a little blunt. I mean well. You don't have to write a masterpiece, or a 150,000 word classic novel, not to start with.
Classic novels are constructed of lots of small things, which, when put together, create something special.
So my advice would be: Carry a small journal everywhere you go, and make notes (that's what I do). The notes can be brief, as this will suit your busy lifestyle. These notes will form parts of your future stories, poetry, etc.
Include different headings, such as characters, writing techniques, special events, places, etc.
Practice observing:
a) peoples expressions, actions, habits, mannerisms, stress, or happiness levels, etc.
b) places, train stations, airports, bus stops, shops, universities, etc.
c) special events, weddings, plays, airports, bus stops, shops, libraries, crossing the road.
d) note how different people act and re-act at these places.
e) imagine what they are thinking.
The list of things you can observe and note is endless.
Then there is the Internet. I get a lot of ideas for my writing from the Internet, or sat in a cafe drinking coffee, or reading a paper, or listening to others.
Remember: Stories need a place (setting) usually people (character/s) an event (a mystery, a challenge, a problem, etc), and conflict, set backs, obstacles, small gains, small losses, etc, but ultimately, the story needs a resolution to the (mystery, challenge, problem).
Good luck. I hope you can find the time to write, and that my crazy ramblings help you do that.
Regards
MN
Hi There. Part of being a writer is Discipline. You have to discipline yourself to write everyday at least a few lines. And soon you'll be writing pages. Good Luck!