Good morning everyone,
Just a request for advice or for someone to clarify whether it's normal behaviour for anyone writing.
This has happened more than once with me. I get on with my story, the chapters start flowing and it takes shape nicely and then... I have another idea and all of a sudden, I have jumped on to that and begun expanding on it. Due to this, I have several new stories all up and running and I'm starting to get lost off with the older ones.
Is this normal for anyone who chooses to write?
Thank you
Hi David, I think it’s all good news. I always seem to have lots of ideas and stories bubbling away. I like that creativity feeling. Personally I would be more worried if that wasn’t happening, and my well of inspiration was dry. Having said that, I find there comes a time when I need to focus on finishing one story, and editing and re-editing it, so that it is as good as I can get it. I think I am at the same stage as you are - ready to submit - but for children’s books, so fingers’ crossed for both of us.
Hi,
Been on a break, so didn't see your question earlier. I still hope this helps. Remember, writing is never ever a linear process. What is happening sounds good. You're writing, and learning how your mind works. These other "ideas", are inspired by the work you're doing, and are usually simply variations on your main theme. Don't worry about it, use it. When you hit this point, it means your mind is working through the thesis you set yourself, and you need a break to sort out what you're learning. Jot them all down, a.) to clear your mind, b.) to check out the connections to what you are writing. Have a break, then go through the thoughts and sort them into main theme, dependent themes, and explanations. That'll bring you back to your work. You can then check them out to see what new revelations you've come up with, then allow your thesis/story to be refined.
Thank you Adrian, that's incredibly useful advice to remember.