Hi there. I have a question about the number of stories rolling off in my head. I have not lost my way yet, but is there a possibility? Two ideas for novels came to me several months ago. The first of the two I have not actually written about, only have the thoughts playing around in my attic. The second has come a long way. This past Dec. I began writing my sci-fi (mixed with romance, is ther a cat. for this?) The story went along smoothly, within 2 weeks or so the main ideas were stored on my HD. Then came along this idea, not sure if it is dumb or not, I have created the story for another character. This one has gone further back in time and came out to be longer than the first (1st approx 57k second, 68k) What I would like to know if is this a normal thing I have done to myself. I like both stories. The thought of compiling them came up, but I am not sure how to do it, since I am afraid of losing a vital part of the story. Call me in experienced, it is true! Now, while I have been working on those and editing them, checking for logical errors, a continuance for these stories arose- this is making me weary, as too much information from lack of experience might only put me into a dark hole. Of course, I need to mention, while making mysefl dizzy with the above, the first story is still dancing around in my attic. I have not attempted to wrtie any of it, fearing I will get side tracked of of what I began. Is that possible? Or will the ideas remain fairly fresh and not cross themselves and the characters lose interest? Thanks. Norma
Posted by Jessica (Member # 3099) on :
Right now, I have two stories that I am in the process of editing, juggling it back and forth, a fantasy novel that is floating around in the back of my mind, begging for attention. Plus, I have short stories for contests that I am working on and about a million new ideas. I think it's normal to have a million and a half ideas. Sometimes, it is helpful if you let a brand new idea simmer for a while--I'll work on my current project, while I think about the new idea and think about how I could make it better. But other times, I juggle two ideas at once. I don't think that it causes problems--just remember don't bite off more than you can chew--if you can't balance more than one or two stories, then figure out which one is pressing your mind the most and work on that one, while the other ones sit back and when you finish the first project, you'll be amazed how much the untouched one has grown. Posted by pixydust (Member # 2311) on :
I've discovered that writing isn't a sprint--it's a marathon. You have to pace yourself or you get burned out and lose focus.
My advice is to write it all down and let it simmer. You never know when the block wall is going to rear its ugly head and all the ideas stop pouring in.
Posted by Johnmac1953 (Member # 3118) on :
Hello Norma, In my limited experience I've found that by simply writing down somewhere(A note book) any idea that pops up in your head you'll keep up. As has been said already you can switch from one story to another - or stay with the strongest... Going back to an earlier idea can be the trigger to improve/change an idea as well as inspire you! Good luck... Best Wishes John Mc...
Posted by Valtam2 (Member # 3174) on :
I definitely agree with the notebook idea. I started that a few weeks ago and it's been an incredible help. Now, out of all the ideas that come into my skull, none are lost. So, when it's time to try and write a story, I have a large selection to choose from. Mine is a handy little Moleskine. It's a perfect size for carrying around. I also list ideas in a Notebook file on my computer.
I always have a million ideas in my head. They simmer for weeks, months, maybe even years until I decide to try and write 'em. So I certainly know the feeling.
Posted by Norma JT (Member # 3168) on :
A notebook? Okay. I guess it is not a bad idea. I have lost other things, nonwriting related due to my bad habit of not making notations. I suppose I will have to keep a small one with me. I am sure I am not alone when I say that I might be walking and something comes into mind, jotting it down might be a good thing, as long as we do not stop in the middles of a busy intersection that is... Thank you for commenting! Norma
Posted by Matt Lust (Member # 3031) on :
My trick to not losing my notepad ws to make it big. Well not big but I just made it a decent-size notebook. I like the Compostion books because they're typically big enough to not lose while being small enough to carry easily in my laptop bag.
[This message has been edited by Matt Lust (edited January 24, 2006).]
Posted by Valtam2 (Member # 3174) on :
I have a jacket that's the only one I wear. I keep the notebook in the same pocket, and always return it to that specific pocket every time. It's a small notebook, about 3 inches by 5 inches, and the pefect size to keep in a pocket and jot down notes in. In the front cover, I wrote down my name, phone number, and a reward for anyone who finds it if I lose it. That's saved me once so far when it fell out of the pocket and onto a classroom floor.
