The Chapter 3 Speedbump
Yep, I've hit it again -- The Chapter 3 Speedbump -- or more accurately, I've run smack dab into the Chapter 3 Wall. It happens with every single book, every single time. And since it's become a regular occurrance, it doesn't freak me out anymore. I know that slamming into a wall after Chapter 2 is perfectly normal for me and it doesn't mean that I'm completely and utterly screwed.
Chapter 1 and 2 are the big action chapters that launch the book, Chapter 3 launches the story. Launching a book is different from launching a story. Chapter 3 begins the section where I have to start weaving my subplots into the main story line. My problem is without fail that I have too danged much stuff that I want to fit in. After straining my brain last night for several hours, I came up empty. It was late, I was tired, so I backed up what little writing I had accomplished, and turned off my computer. On my way out of my office, I stopped and stared at my wall of post-its (see last Tuesday's blog entry for how I used post-its to plot). THEN it came to me what I needed to do with Chapter 3. (snort) Figures. Since I'd already shut down my computer, I went with the trusty notepad to scribble my inspiration.
Hours of butt in chair in front of the computer = Nothing.
Five seconds of standing in front of a wall of post-its = Problem solved.
Jeez, don't you just love the creative process? ; )
Don't forget that Felicia Day (my fan and a fabulous actress) is the "patient of the week" on tonight's episode of House at 8:00. There are clips from the episode on the House website. I'll be on the couch in front of the TV snuggled up with Derek & the dogs.
Lisa
Chapter 1 and 2 are the big action chapters that launch the book, Chapter 3 launches the story. Launching a book is different from launching a story. Chapter 3 begins the section where I have to start weaving my subplots into the main story line. My problem is without fail that I have too danged much stuff that I want to fit in. After straining my brain last night for several hours, I came up empty. It was late, I was tired, so I backed up what little writing I had accomplished, and turned off my computer. On my way out of my office, I stopped and stared at my wall of post-its (see last Tuesday's blog entry for how I used post-its to plot). THEN it came to me what I needed to do with Chapter 3. (snort) Figures. Since I'd already shut down my computer, I went with the trusty notepad to scribble my inspiration.
Hours of butt in chair in front of the computer = Nothing.
Five seconds of standing in front of a wall of post-its = Problem solved.
Jeez, don't you just love the creative process? ; )
Don't forget that Felicia Day (my fan and a fabulous actress) is the "patient of the week" on tonight's episode of House at 8:00. There are clips from the episode on the House website. I'll be on the couch in front of the TV snuggled up with Derek & the dogs.
Lisa
posted by Lisa Shearin at
8:22 AM
2 Comments:
I've noticed this happens to me as well. I can get the first two chapters written pretty easily, and then the third chapter has to be practically wrenched from my brain. Once I get past it though, the words begin to flow.
Ditto. ; )
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