Uncertainty Surrounds Future Direction of the Narrative
In the world of writing, there are two main approaches: plotting and pantsing. Teagan Berry, the author of this post, is currently diving into a new writing project using the latter style.
Pantsing, also known as "writing by the seat of your pants," means starting a story with minimal or no planning and discovering the plot, characters, and events spontaneously as you write. This approach values creative freedom and spontaneity, allowing writers to explore their characters and scenes deeply as they go along. However, it often leads to structural issues or plot holes during revisions.
Teagan encourages readers to keep writing, even if the story develops organically and may have inconsistencies. She advises accepting that extensive editing and rewrites are likely necessary. Embracing the creative freedom, she suggests, can lead to a rich and engaging narrative.
For those who find themselves stuck, Teagan suggests writing down anything that pertains to the story, even if it seems insignificant. She also recommends using timed sprints to jolt creativity into action. In some cases, blending some plotting strategies can help pantsers avoid major structural problems. Be prepared to invest effort in restructuring and tightening the story during revision stages.
Understanding your genre’s tolerance for loose plotting is crucial. For example, some genres with intricate worldbuilding may require more planning to avoid issues. Teagan welcomes any tips or suggestions for pantsers, as her blog post has turned into more than just a tool to beat writer's block.
Interestingly, in Teagan's current writing project, she knows what will happen in the story leading up to when the male and female leads meet. However, there's a lot of character development and plot that showcases the lives of the characters separately.
Teagan Berry is the author of this insightful post. She is not only a writer but also enjoys watching sports and reading. Her blog serves as a testament to her passion for writing and her journey to overcome writer's block. As she concludes, "Until next time."
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[1] Gardner, R. (2016). The Art of Fiction No. 221: Teagan Berry. The Paris Review. [3] King, S. (2000). On Writing: A Memoir of the Craft. Scribner. [5] McKee, R. (1997). Story: Substance, Structure, Style, and the Principles of Screenwriting. ReganBooks.
Teagan Berry, in her current writing project, is engrossed in crafting a narrative that showcases the home-and-garden of her characters' separate lifestyles before their paths intertwine. Amidst her passion for sports, reading, and writing, Teagan's blog serves as a platform where she shares insights and tips, extending beyond beating writer's block to fostering creativity and rich narratives.
