Yesterday, I did something I never thought I might do. I registered to participate in the 2012 NANOWRIMO. This is a literary exercise which calls for me to write a 50,000 word manuscript between the dates of 11/1/12-11/30/12. Yes, I said 50,000 words. Fortunately, there is much support on NANOWRIMO's website for all of us who are stepping out in faith to do this. Opportunities for writing in community with others is available at many of my local libraries and we are organzied by region with local folks who are willing to guide us on this uncertain journey. Also, we have the opportunity to find "buddies" with whom we will discuss, weep, laugh and generally comisserate with.
50,000 WORDS! It sounds so daunting. However the approach NANOWRIMO takes it somewhat like eating an elephant; one bite at a time. The goal is to write at least 1700 words a day. Just write and write and write. We are not to bother with editing in this phase. That comes later.
Shall I write in the first person or the third person? Should I make an outline to work from? Must I predetermine who the characters will be and where they fit into my story? So much to think about.
So, 18 short days from now I will begin. And, if you so chose, you can ride along in this rodeo with me as I blog my way through 30 days of writing. I just hope I have enough left in me each day to keep up with this blog. Nag me, please. See you soon!
