Characters Conspiring

One of my favorite things about being a writer is the way I can fall into a story. The point where I stop seeing the scenes as if watching a movie and I start walking around on the set, able to see, feel, smell, taste, and touch the setting around me. The real world disappears in those moments.

Photo Credit: Lisa Hall-Wilson (Flickr)

Still, there are settings which I tend to avoid, out of fear or intimidation. My adult WiP, Dark Intent is set in early 1900s. Originally, it was set in the 1800s, but I’m not a history buff. I don’t read much historical fiction either, and therefore found working with that timeframe intimidating. There are so many things I don’t know. Would my main character be able to see her reflection in a window? Could she drink from a water hose? When exactly were blue jeans invented? Could she even wear pants? (Big NO on that one). The early 1900s are worked better, because it was easier to research and I was even able to find images of clothing my characters might wear. To  spend more time writing and less time researching, I found a few period details to sprinkle in to help set the scene.

As far as specific settings and fear is concerned, I will most likely never ever ever write a scene that takes place on a bridge. If my characters ever try to drag me onto one, they’ll have to do so with me kicking and screaming. Even as I type this, I hear them conspiring about a way to work one into a story.

Do you have a setting that you avoid writing out of intimidation or fear?

Want to know how my critique partners answered this question? See Dawn’s response here and Leatrice’s is answer coming soon.

IWSG – Never Enough Time

Purpose: To share and encourage. Writers can express doubts and concerns without fear of appearing foolish or weak. Those who have been through the fire can offer assistance and guidance. It’s a safe haven for insecure writers of all kinds! (Our Twitter hashtag is #IWSG)

Alex J. Cavanaugh’s awesome co-hosts for the March 6 posting of the IWSG are Misha Gericke and Joylene Nowell Butler!

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Now, on to my second IWSG post…

I’d like to consider myself an organized person. In fact, back when I was an executive assistant, I was often complimented on my organizational skills. I juggled twenty things at once, had documents and other things ready for the exec before she knew she needed them, my work desk was always tidy, etc.

If I can do that for an entire office, why can’t I do it for myself?

For a long time, I pondered that question. Then, I decided to do something about it. I created a 6-week editorial calendar for my blog. I started a “Writer Calendar” where I schedule time to write, keep track of people I plan to host on my blog, note participation in social media events, and even list my critique group meetings. With the help of Google Reader, I’m making a Blog Visiting schedule to help me streamline my time in the blogosphere. Since I’m really good at procrastinating, I’ve started using Pinterest (find me here) as reward to achieving writing goals. These things help me feel focused.

Find other Insecure Writer’s Support Group members here.

How about you? Do you have any writer-centric organizational tips?

My First Guest Post

Photo Credit: Frank Selmo

 

Let’s celebrate!

<<<<<<< Go ahead, grab a cyber bite.

Sarah Negovetich is hosting me on her blog Sara Nego Writes today. It’s my first Guest Post!

Please stop by her blog to check out my 5 Tips on Managing Social Media. Thanks for your continued support. The blogosphere wouldn’t be the same without you!