Sunday, November 8, 2009

Brainstorming

Today, I went on a road trip with another writer who was having a problem with their current novel in progress. We drove down to the Lake of the Ozarks, and on the way, we talked about the issues involved. A character who started out as a one-time appearance had become bigger and more interesting, and we had to create a mythology for this paranormal story.

The character, for all intents and purposes, after 45 minutes of brainstorming, has become an integral part of not only the second book in the series, but will now also appear in the rest of the series as well... not just this character, but his "job" will affect the main character in what he is doing and trying to accomplish.

Brainstorming is a great way to get your story moving, surprise the reader and create characters that keep readers coming back for more. So where do you find someone to brainstorm with? I suggest going to your local writer's groups, conferences, online Yahoo groups like this one, or asking a writer friend. It will help you recharge and get motivated to get back to your writing - and you know who you are :) Some of us need a little push here and there - I know I do.

If you need help finding a brainstorming buddy, start looking around or just email at mdntvoices@yahoo.com and I'll see if I can help you find the right place to connect with a group or person who's right for you.

Happy writing!

2 comments:

  1. I can't tell you how many road trips I've done with fellow writers and we always brainstorm there and back. As you said, it's a fabulous way to solve problems, deepen plot or character, and just have fun. Great post!

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  2. I love having brainstorming buddies! I'm just about to call mine.

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