I’ve fallen into the habit of asking writers to fill out the Character Emotional Development Plot Profile for themselves as well as for their protagonist. One question more than all others reveals depth of passion.
QUESTION: What do you stand to lose if you do not accomplish your writing goal?
WRITERS’ ANSWERS:
I’ve lost my way and haven’t been able to find it again
The evil voices will be proven correct
Sanity
My story will not make it into the world
Self-respect
Me
My self-esteem
A sense of accomplishment before the real deadline
Self-fulfillment
Peace of mind
In the work I do with writers, I offer guidance about plot and structure and meaning in relationship to the protagonist’s ultimate transformation. I also strive to provide insight into the writer’s journey.
Writing is a solitary activity and can make you feel cut-off and separate and alone. Until, that is, you attend your first writers conference, join a critique group, form a writing group, read blogs like this one.
All writers revise endlessly.
No one knows what they truly are writing about.
Not a thing. Everything is as it should be…
It's so true- we impose our own deadlines and pressure most of the time. The answers you shared from writers are revealing in that they take their craft very seriously, which is good. But some answers really are sad in that it's clear we are very hard on ourselves. Thanks for reminding us that "everything is as it should be," even if we don't make a certain goal.
Marissa
Oh yes, I love this.
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