My writing process is very organic. I start with an idea. I have the general story arc and the cast. But then I sit down to write, and things change.
Sentiment: POSITIVE
When I write, I try to capture one of those pivotal moments. If I succeed, I have shifted the reader's view of the world, just a little. The character is not the only one to experience change. That is my job, shifting perceptions, one story at a time. The trouble is, I don't like writing. But I love having written.
My writing process is a mix of research, personal experiences, washing the dishes, raising kids while thinking - then writing.
As a writer, you have to first of all write what you want to. Listen to advice, by all means, but don't get bogged down in it.
The way that I write novels in particular is I don't usually outline; I just write. Part of the fun is discovering what's happening in the story as I'm going along.
Writing is a creative process, and you need to have the doors and windows of your mind open so that you have the possibility of change.
If you want to be a writer, just write. There's no magic to it.
My writing process hasn't changed - it's is the same whether I'm working on a Y.A. novel or, as now, a new novel for adults. A lot of reading, a lot of research if the subject warrants it, a lot of sticky notes and scraps of paper - and get to work.
I'm not a good writer. It takes me a long time to get there. I write and then rewrite and revise and do it over and over until I'm satisfied.
I started as a playwright. Any sort of scriptwriting you do helps you hone your story. You have the same demands of creating a plot, developing relatable characters and keeping your audience invested in your story. My books are basically structured like three-act plays.
Writing is a process of discovering. I could never outline a narrative; that just sounds boring. There's no joy of discovery in what you're doing if that's your strategy.