Mar 20, 2010

Wannabe Writers #8

Wannabe Writers is my weekly meme. It's a writing group for the un-published and anyone is welcome to join. It's a place where future authors can ask questions, share stories, and get feedback. Click (here) to find out how it works.

Where I am in the writing process: I've been writing since November 2008. I am currently starting a brand new writing project. (50,000 Words, 50 Days) Today makes day 9 and my progress stands at 5,304 words.

My current problems: My biggest problem this week has to be self-doubt. And I know that is something even published authors can't shake. Will I ever be good enough? Am I just waisting my time? I feel that way everyday but everyday I just keep on chugging. There's always that hope that one day I might make it. Also, do you ever read a really good book and just want to give up? I do that all the time.

My question this week: Dual narratives? Has anyone ever attempted to write a book where you have two Main Characters--switching voice with each alternating chapter? Likes/Dislikes on that? I just read Perfect Chemistry and loved how the author wrote like that. Any other good books out there like that? I think this is becoming more and more popular in YA.


14 comments:

Summer Frey said...

I've often written from multiple POVs. One of my WIPs, my Nano from last year, actually has 3 perspectives. I've questioned that many, but each one is imperative to get the story across, so...

There are plenty of books out there written from multiple perspectives. For YA, what about The Mortal Instruments series? I think it worked quite well for Clare...

sarah darlington said...

Summer--yes I did love how clare did it. But I mean multiple 1st person POV's. Like Shiver or As you Wish.

I'm doing my 50,000/50 project like that. I just hope it works. I've tried this once before and failed.

Crystal Cook said...

Sarah, you will not fail, you will succeed as long as you keep trying! I know I struggle so much with self doubt too, and it is so hard to kick, but I keep telling myself that the only way I'll find out is if I keep pushing on every day, like you are :)

As for multiple perspectives I really like that. I read Perfect Chemistry and thought it was very well done there and also in Shiver. My only problem with it is when the guy (I'm assuming that's how you're doing it) does not sound like a guy! I am thinking of one book in specific that was written by a woman from a male POV.

But I really do enjoy the split perspective if the author can pull off that they are two distinct and different characters. Not just a girl and then a feminine type guy who says things like "Dude!" So I'm not speaking from experience with writing, but as a reader here since I've never tried this. Thinking about using it now with my 50 k in 50 days.

Bookish in a Box said...

If you're writing, you're not failing. Every word you type, every sentence you create--they're practice for The One. Maybe that's the one you're writing right now. Maybe it isn't. But you are NOT wasting your time.

(And, yes, I frequently read good books and then think, "I WILL NEVER BE THIS GOOD." Don't listen to that voice! Try instead to find what you like about it and incorporate that into your own writing.)

Dual narratives are a great idea. I haven't tried it yet, but I like books that follow that format. :-)

Hannah said...

I haven't tried the multiple POVs yet. I would like to know and have a few projects on the back burner where there will be multiple MCs, it's a daunting project. *sigh*

I to battle with self-doubt whenever I write or read something especially awesome. I read somewhere that everyone of us has a unique story to tell. That helps when faced with minimal self-doubt but not always when in a deep rut.
Just know you're not alone. :)

June G said...

My first novel attempt is in dual narrative. I still must revise and work through things in the story, but I haven't received any negative feedback about utilizing two POV's. An agent did tell me it would be wise to open the book with the stronger character to hook the reader in. Leaving Paradise and the upcoming release, Rules of Attraction by Simone Elkedes has dual narratives as well.

Self-doubt? Sure. Especially after reading a really awesome book, you wonder do you even have a chance. Since beginning the journey toward publication, I've learned that the finished product of a book is not the work of the author alone. There were a lot of other eyes, hands, voices, edits and revisions that went into it. That great book didn't come out of the writer's computer like that.

Bare that in mind when you feel discouraged. If they needed help, it's only natural you will too, especially at this stage in the process. Now to make sure I remember these words of wisdom and encouragement myself!

I'm following you now.

Madeleine said...

I'm so happy. I've been wanting to write Wannabe Writers posts for awhile and haven't gotten around to it. This is a fantastic idea and your questions rock. ( :

Anonymous said...

Finally got around to posting...sorry for the delay!

Serafina said...

Oh oh oh! I want to join this meme. I just found it. Should I just start with this question and move forward? I noticed that there are several previous questions.

sarah darlington said...

Tiffers--Of course. I'd love more people to join. :)

sarah darlington said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
porcelaine said...

First of all this is a great meme. I'm really glad you started it. :)

As for self doubt, it's inevitable. But I think there's a positive side to it as well. I believe it allows us to go further and unearth talents that could go undiscovered. I also feel it's a reality check. The thing that keeps us grounded and in the moment, not moments ahead.
We see each piece as an individual component of a creative kaleidoscope in the making. Sometimes the picture unfolds right before our eyes. That's beauty and mystique of what we do.

Tara Martin said...

Just discovered your blog, thanks for the meme I'm going to add it to my blog! :D

Anonymous said...

Oh hell yes. I love me some multiple narrators. I don't know why. Also, duality intrigues me. Maybe it's because I'm such a spaz with my writing. I can't remain focused in just one POV. It can either be a problem or a blessing and most of the time it is both.

No it's not.

Yes it is.