NaNoWriMo and the Wisdom of Robert Frost

I've found out some very interesting things about myself in the first eight days of the NaNoWriMo challenge. For instance, I believe I will be one of those authors you listen to on the Oprah show who says, "For my award-winning book, I had to throw out the first 45 pages." "Why?" Oprah would ask, obviously stunned.

And I'd have to tell her, "Because nothing happened until page 46."

It's true. Although I didn't set out to do it, I have inadvertently created a village composed entirely of direct descendants of Mary Poppins, "practically perfect in every way." You would love this place! I do. But guess what? No editor will love it. It's not fraught with enough peril and conflict. (Did I say enough? I meant any.)

So today after work, when I come home to add 2,000 words to my village and characters, it's no more Mr. Nice Guy. Now, it will be "Here comes the judge." (sigh) But I really like these guys, and I hate to be a meanie. I know, though, it will be a better story once I get in there and really mix it up. Hearts will pound. Tears will be shed. Victory cries will resound. Maybe even awards will be won.

Robert Frost and I are in the same boat (or is it snowy woods?). I have "miles to go before I sleep."

NaNoWriMo, baby!

Today's the first day of National Novel Writing Month (NaNoWriMo)--the day when founder Chris Baty cajoles thousands of people across the globe to throw themselves unhindered into the world of literary abandon for the entire month of November. These people--myself included, this year--put aside laundry, eating, sleep, and possibly even personal hygiene to attain the all-important goal of producing a 50,000-word novel between November 1st and 30th. All for the title of "winner" and the bragging rights that come with it.

I'm writing a middle grade novel. To make the NaNoWriMo 50,000-word goal, I have to write an average of 1,667 words a day. I'm off to a good start on my first day--2,266 words! Are you intrigued? There's still time to join. Go to www.nanorwrimo.org to check it out. And check back here often. I'll let you know how I'm doing.