Friday, March 18, 2011

The Starting Point

     Now that you have an idea for a story -- think of a way to begin it.  My college professors always said the best way is to start the story already in progress, right in the middle of something going on.  Perhaps a party taking place or other event and then have your main character enter the scene as a participant or as the celebrant;  I have found this approach to be the most popular. 
     The beginning can always be reconstructed as the story progresses but it is good to have a good focus for where in the timeline of your story to start the plot.  Is it going to start in the present and flashback to the past?  Will it start with just one character doing something?  Will it begin with an event?  Will it be narrative describing the town from a distance and working the description into a room somewhere to begin the action?  There are many questions to ask how to begin and which way to move toward the plot of your story idea. 
     So, today get some paper and figure out where to begin.  Draw a picture in your mind and write it down; do some historical research if necessary to make it time accurate and focus on where the action begins.
     I also suggest getting a shoebox (boot box is better) to store all the items that will be accumalated as you write and research the story.  No need to be fancy about this; it is to keep it all together.

Irvington Press

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