Archive for the tag 'Writing'

Critiques

October 28th, 2010

Tomorrow my critique group is meeting here at my home. Aside from dressing in Halloween costumes and gorging ourselves with snacks, we have a manuscript to critique.

A year or so ago I wrote about the experience of having my own manuscript, Kissing Shakespeare, critiqued by my group. To say I was somewhat stressed is a gross understatement. Whenever I critique someone else’s work, I’m reminded of how vulnerable I felt–and always feel–when it’s my turn on the hot seat.

In my critique group, there are two kinds of critiquers: those who work with the manuscript as it is, and think about ways to strengthen it; and those who do that, but also come up with all kinds of new plot twists, characters, obstacles, and creative ways in which to take the story. I definitely fall into the first camp. Although I enjoy letting my mind run free with my own stories, I’m not really comfortable doing so with the manuscripts of fellow writers. I don’t like the idea of co-opting someone’s story and turning it into something it wasn’t intended to be.

That said, I think there is great value in having the highly creative types throw out their ideas. Sometimes the interplay that results creates an “aha” moment for the writer. And of course, one can always reject the suggestions that don’t fit with one’s own vision of the story.

A great book on revising–sorry, critiques inevitably lead to revision–is by Chris Roerden. It’s called Don’t Murder Your Mystery: 24 Fiction-Writing Techniques To Save Your Manuscript From Turning Up…D.O.A. Obviously, it’s specifically for mystery writers, but I’ve found that the advice Ms. Roerden offers would apply to most genres. My copy is highlighted and filled with post-its. When I was revising Kissing Shakespeare, I copied her essential tips and techniques onto index cards and kept them close by.

Happy Halloween! Hope the zombies don’t eat up your WIP.

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Pam’s Manuscript Critique

October 16th, 2009

My heart pounds out an irregular rhythm. I try but fail to suck in one of those deep, cleansing breaths that are supposed to be so calming. Short gulps of air are all I can manage. Sweat breaks out on my forehead. My limbs feel heavy, immobile. Job interview? Nightmare? Am I being chased by zombies, werewolves, or vampires? No to all of the above. It’s only the critique of my new manuscript, about to begin any second. I’m waiting for that one person to say, “I’ll start.”

It’s so difficult to send a manuscript out into the world. I always fall in love with the characters and think the story is perfect. Well, maybe not perfect. Bound to be a few flaws here and there, but nothing that won’t be a quick fix! I steel myself, waiting to hear what everyone thinks. I’m grateful that the critique is taking place at a gorgeous home in the mountains above Boulder. We’re sitting in a “great” room, the last golden light of fall streaming in from the French doors.

And so it begins. Everyone starts with words of praise, because our group is respectful, caring, nurturing. There’s not a single person present who doesn’t want to help me improve my manuscript and ultimately reach my goal of becoming a published writer. As with any group of writers, the thought processes differ wildly. (There’s a reason we call ourselves the Wild Folk!) Some see the big picture. Others focus on detail. There are the “outside the box” thinkers who suggest new turns the plot might take. Several people point out characters who need further development, aspects of the story that don’t make sense, and in the case of this book, an ending that simply doesn’t work. I’m busy taking notes and asking questions, trying to understand and decide if the various suggestions fit with my vision of the book.

Of course, I can’t really do that until I’ve given myself time to process everything. Since the critique, which was on October 4, the manuscripts have been stacked on my dining room table. I’ve read through everyone’s comments and charted the “issues” mentioned most frequently. I’ve spoken privately with some members of the group who I thought could help clarify certain points. Slowly, I’m working my way through each manuscript and taking note of comments written in the margins. As many of us in our critique group are frequently heard to say, “Writing is hard work!”

Now I’m trying to pluck up the courage to begin the re-write. Frankly, I’m scared to death.

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Attributions: He said, she said

May 13th, 2009

An admonition writers always hear from speakers at conferences is to stick with the venerable “said” as a dialogue tag. Other writers, editors, agents, creative writing teachers, and the authors of writing craft books–all seem to agree.

Every time I hear or read this piece of advice, it seems the very next time I pick up a book, I find countless examples of other attributions: urged, roared, shouted, barked, yelled, whispered, muttered, hissed, and so on. I know the prevailing view on this is that use of these words takes the reader out of the story, but I never feel that way. I enjoy a little roaring, shouting, whispering, and hissing. It doesn’t bother me one bit, unless, of course, it’s used to death. I guess every reader knows what her breaking point is. Continue Reading »

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