By setting, and sticking to, a minimum goal of 500 words daily, I've nearly drafted the first third of the new Boss MacTavin novel since November 5. Generally, I've managed 700 words, occasionally 800 or 900. From now on detailed outlines are the way I plan to fly because I enjoy the security...and the rush that always follows deviating from the plan.
Next challenge: starting the clerical duties--typing what I've written on a schedule that I must determine. Wren Doloro has suggested Moleskine's 'EverNote' notebook, which transmits written text into digital form. I'll use that for the next book! Now, without sacrificing speed, I must begin the typing--or face a massi ve typing task three months down the road.
Motivational tactic: regard the weekly typing as a substitute for things I liked about the old cyclical method: write 50-75 pages...stop...put it through three drafts...then carry on again. As I type I can refresh my memory on key character and plot points...determine if the pacing is still on point...etc.
What do I like best about Marathon First-Drafting? I'm high on the sense of momentum. I love the creative adventure, undiluted by clerical drudgery. Each page is a fresh discovery.
And what's the greatest challenge, for me? Going with it in the spirit of making the world's greatest mudpie--something that needs worlds of work but is a living blast to bake. Shaking that ancient sense of right and wrong, that old fear of 'mistakes'.
I'm having the time of my life. :)
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