As I start writing this new book, I hope to devote one or two posts a week to my process, what I’m struggling with, or what is really working for me. At the end of last week and over the weekend, I began my prewiritng process.  This week I hope to actually start putting words to paper.

Starting a new novel is always a hard process for me.

With my past project and the one I’m beginning now, I’ve been trying to be less of a ‘write it as it comes to me’ and more of a plotter and planner.  I have to admit the more prewriting I do, the easier the words come once I start.  Well, except for that beginning.

First: What is my prewriting checklist?  I have several spreadsheets (most picked up from other writers and writing sources) that help me define each major character. Character profiles that cover everything from physical appearances to traits and flaws.  I then look at and work out the main goal, motivation and conflict for not just my hero/heroine, but any other major characters that play a role (this usually includes a ‘bad guy’).

Once I know where everyone wants to go, the next step is to plot how they’re going to get there, which means outlining the book.  In the past I’ve used a very general outline, briefly summarizing each perspective chapter, focusing mostly on turning points, black moment, etc, but with this new project (Resurrecting Harry) I’m going to try to do a detailed map of each scene before I even begin writing, hoping this will make the trip much smoother.

Though… I suppose I’ve already broken from that because yesterday I just had to start fiddling with words.  Openings are hard, but I’m struggling with this one even more than I have in the past.  It’s not that I don’t know where I want to open, but I’m just not sure if the way I want to present it will work in the written word.  I’m struggling for the right words to paint the drama I see in my mind’s eye.  It’s a lot of action and internal pain, and not much in the way of interaction with anyone but himself.

But, when it comes down to it, these scribbles I’m working with may or may not be my opening when all is said and done, and if I scrap every single word of it, it still served a purpose.  I’ve already learned my theme — or at least Harry’s.  His obstacle to overcome and lesson to learn is rooted in the proverb “Pride goeth before destruction” and the seven deadly sins.  Not that it’s a religious story, because it isn’t. It’s more about his (and her) values and their ability to believe in the impossible and each other.

So, my goals for this first week are to finish my scene map and draft chapter one.  Wish me luck