Structure in writing
By mcrowl
@mcrowl (1050)
New Zealand
September 10, 2009 2:41am CST
One of the problems I've had with larger works, like novels, is trying to get a grip on the structure.
I've blogged about it a few times, again this morning, when I was looking at the matter of how it seems that I start writing from a place of intuition, and then have to work out the structure at a later point.
How do other people go about this?
What made me think about it was a book I was reading with the subtitle: 'restoring the intuitive in worship through music and dance'
http://tinyurl.com/njbd8d
2 responses
@unusualsuspect (2602)
• United States
10 Sep 09
I've been preparing for National Novel Writing Month and have found that the structure builds itself as I deelop the plot and characters. This will be my third attempt to get a novel written, and for the first time, I feel as if I finally know where I'm going with it. I don't see how you can decide on structure before you have a very clear idea of the story line and how the characters interact. Unless you're deliberately trying to work out an experimental form, structure should probably be your last concern.
1 person likes this
@mcrowl (1050)
• New Zealand
10 Sep 09
I agree with what you say. I think my point is that eventually you have to deal with structure, and, once you've got a good deal of material on hand, it's the putting it into the 'right' shape that's the hard part. I've had a novel sitting aside for some time which in spite of being virtually finished just doesn't feel right as far as the ending is concerned...I know what I'd like, but it isn't there yet!
@mensab (4200)
• Philippines
10 Sep 09
i am also facing the challenge of being either constrained of structure or structureless writing. most of the time, i set up a structure in which i will fill in with contents, stories and ideas. structure at times is constraining since it limits the parameters of our imagination. however, writing without structures make my restless mind wander from interesting ideas to wonderful stories, resulting to jumbled storylines. goodluck with your writing. the same also goes to me.
