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[ROOT]/includes/bbcode.php on line 112: preg_replace(): The /e modifier is no longer supported, use preg_replace_callback instead [phpBB Debug] PHP Warning: in file [ROOT]/includes/functions.php on line 4668: Cannot modify header information - headers already sent by (output started at [ROOT]/includes/functions.php:3815) [phpBB Debug] PHP Warning: in file [ROOT]/includes/functions.php on line 4670: Cannot modify header information - headers already sent by (output started at [ROOT]/includes/functions.php:3815) [phpBB Debug] PHP Warning: in file [ROOT]/includes/functions.php on line 4671: Cannot modify header information - headers already sent by (output started at [ROOT]/includes/functions.php:3815) [phpBB Debug] PHP Warning: in file [ROOT]/includes/functions.php on line 4672: Cannot modify header information - headers already sent by (output started at [ROOT]/includes/functions.php:3815) Horror World • View topic - Writing myself into a corner.
This probably won't sound too fun or be very popular with many writers, but maybe you should work with an outline first.
I don't mean that rigid, numeric and lettered outline you were taught in composition class ... just a loose outline that has the major points of conflict and resolution.
Stop by your local library and see if they have a copy of "Sometimes the Magic Works" by Terry Brooks. He discusses how he uses outlines and it really help me overcome the same problem you are having.
I often have the same problem to start out with. Too many ideas too fit into one short story. In fact, the first thing I ever completed writing-wise was a novel length work (still unedited, so it just sits there doing nothing). I've got to the point where I am only focused on short stories now. I finally decided that if I have too much for one short story I need to focus on a shorter section of that tale and just tell that part. I can save the left over idea points, rework them and create a different short story with those elements, or save them for a future project. I have to look at the story and take out any elements that aren't nessessary or don't move the plot forward.
That's how I try and do it at least. Good luck with your writing.
Joined: Mon Mar 10, 2008 2:58 pm Posts: 6411 Location: The Back of Beyond.
Yes, I've done that, a shorter version of a story or one part in the story that I think really stands out. I solved the problem on the story I was working on. There's always some catastrophy that can happen within the story that solves a lot of problems written in.
I have to tell any writer out there that no matter how much you hear certain people express their angst about whether or not they think Stephen King sold out or doesn't write like his old days, his book, On Writing, to me, is like the bible of how to write. He spells it all out for you and it's not a massive book you have to take notes on. The guy really knows what he's talking about. Whether you like what he does or not, you don't sell as many books as he has without knowing something about the craft of writing. I would advise any writer out there to buy it and read it over and over.
One other that I have in the back of my mind that I have to get, is the one Ray Bradbury wrote. That guy's one of my favorite authors. I think it was called, Zen In Writing, I may have the exact title wrong, but any advice that man gives is worth its weight in gold.
Thanks to all who gave advice.
Happy writing, Mike.
_________________ "There's no law, no law anymore - I wanna steal from the rich and give to the poor." ~The Ramones~
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