Monkeys with Typewriters

1. Writing is an art of human connection and truth-telling

We love writers because they are human, and they have made an effort to communicate something important to us.

Human experience: Writing is fundamentally about connecting with readers through shared human experiences. Good writers tap into universal themes and emotions, making their work relatable and meaningful.

Truth and authenticity: Effective writing strives to tell the truth about life, even in fiction. This doesn't mean literal truth, but emotional and experiential truth that resonates with readers. Writers should aim to be authentic, avoiding clichés and stereotypes in favor of nuanced, honest portrayals of characters and situations.

Compassion and understanding: Great writing fosters empathy and understanding. By delving into the complexities of human nature, writers can help readers see the world from different perspectives and gain insight into their own lives and the lives of others.

2. Understand basic plot structures to craft compelling narratives

There are a limited number of plots that we use to tell stories.

Basic plot types:

• Tragedy
• Comedy
• Quest
• Rags to riches
• Coming of age
• Stranger comes to town
• Mystery
• Modern realism

Plot essentials: While the specifics may vary, most compelling plots involve:

• A central conflict or problem
• Character development and change
• Rising action and tension
• A climax or turning point
• Resolution (even if open-ended)

Subversion and creativity: Understanding basic plot structures allows writers to play with expectations, subvert tropes, and create innovative narratives that still resonate with readers.

3. Develop authentic characters through motivation and choice

Characterisation is based on the choices that people make in different situations.

Motivation: Every character should have clear motivations driving their actions. These can be conscious or unconscious, but they should be consistent and believable.

Choice and conflict: Characters reveal themselves through the choices they make, especially when faced with difficult decisions or conflicting desires. Put your characters in situations where they must make meaningful choices.

Depth and complexity: Avoid flat stereotypes by giving characters:

• Distinct voices and mannerisms
• Flaws and contradictions
• Backstories that inform their present
• Growth and change over the course of the story

4. Master the sentence: Specificity, precision, and figurative language

Good writing is an art. When we look at it, sentence by sentence, we should feel joy.

Specificity and precision: Use concrete, vivid details rather than vague abstractions. Choose words carefully to convey exact meanings and create clear images in the reader's mind.

Economy of language: Eliminate unnecessary words and prioritize strong nouns and verbs over excessive adjectives and adverbs.

Figurative language: Use metaphors, similes, and other literary devices to:

• Create depth and layers of meaning
• Draw unexpected connections
• Evoke emotions and sensory experiences

Rhythm and flow: Pay attention to the rhythm and sound of your sentences. Vary sentence length and structure to create a pleasing cadence and maintain reader engagement.

5. Generate ideas by exploring personal experiences and interests

Everyone worries about death, not just me. Ninety per cent of women worry about their weight and/or appearance, not just me. Most people worry about their family, not just me. There are plenty of universals out there.

Personal inventory: Create a matrix or list of:

• Unique experiences and knowledge
• Current obsessions and interests
• Problems you've faced
• Skills and expertise

Universality in specificity: While drawing from personal experience, focus on elements that have universal appeal or relevance.

Combine and transform: Mix different elements from your inventory in unexpected ways to create original story ideas. Don't be afraid to fictionalize or exaggerate real experiences.

Research and observation: Supplement personal knowledge with research and keen observation of the world around you to add depth and authenticity to your ideas.

6. Craft a narrative voice that engages your ideal reader

Your perfect reader has turned up to hear you. Don't become shy and embarrassed about this. Don't turn into a parody of someone else.

Authenticity: Write in your own natural voice rather than trying to imitate other writers or adopt an overly formal tone.

Ideal reader: Imagine writing for a specific, interested reader who wants to be engaged and entertained. This can help you maintain a conversational and engaging tone.

Consistency: Maintain a consistent narrative voice throughout your work, whether it's first-person, third-person limited, or omniscient.

Adapt to genre and story: While staying true to your voice, adjust your tone and style to suit the genre and specific needs of your story.

7. Structure your novel around scenes of meaningful change

The scene is the basic unit of fiction. Why the scene, rather than the chapter, paragraph, 250-word block or sentence? Because the scene is where change occurs.

Scene essentials:

• Clear objective or purpose
• Conflict or tension
• Character development
• Advancement of plot

Cause and effect: Link scenes through cause and effect, ensuring each scene has consequences that propel the story forward.

Pacing: Vary scene length and intensity to control pacing and maintain reader interest.

Show vs. tell: Use scenes to show important moments and character development rather than simply telling the reader what happened.

8. Embrace the writing process: Plan, draft, and revise with purpose

Writing a novel is a bit like going on a journey. It is only once you know your destination that you can start working out how to get there.

Planning stage:

• Develop your central idea and theme
• Create character profiles
• Outline major plot points
• Research as needed

Drafting: Focus on getting the story down without perfectionism. Allow yourself to write imperfectly, knowing you'll revise later.

Revision:

• Structural edits: Ensure plot coherence and pacing
• Character consistency and development
• Language refinement: Polish prose and dialogue
• Cut unnecessary elements

Persistence and patience: Writing a novel is a long process. Set realistic goals and maintain a consistent writing routine to make steady progress.

Last updated: October 1, 2024