Every year, I make a list of all aspects of my life and how I want to improve them. I've written about this before, and every year the list includes writing more.
I've learned a lot about myself as a writer this past year, so now it's a matter of putting a plan into place. Like my most recent post addresses, right now I'm learning about structured writing processes versus organic writing. This issue is not unlike plotters versus pantsers. I thought I was a total plotter, but my recent experience with a story that had to come out has make me rethink my whole strategy. For me, what it comes down to is finding what will make me want to keep writing. I still think plotting is important, but perhaps my Virgo side took over and I need to learn to relax a little. The bottom line: GET THE FIRST DRAFT DONE ALREADY.
So, my writing goal? To get the first draft done. I'll be setting a deadline and plan of action and try to keep away from my incessant desire to research, plot, and build story lines.
On another note, I watched some of the Rocky movies yesterday. One channel had a marathon featuring Rocky I to V. Every time I watch these movies, I am so impressed with the writing (by Sylvester Stallone). True, the plot is simple, but Stallone does a great job in creating characters with desires and needs, plotting, and remembering the audience can figure things out for themselves. I find his writing almost textbook well done. And, with each movie, he develops his characters further. So now I'm dying to see the newest installment, Rocky Balboa. I've heard it's pretty good... anyone seen it yet?So, my questions to you: Any writing resolutions? Did you like Rocky Balboa and why?
17 comments:
I've never been into Rocky, but for some reason I do want to see the new movie.
Perhaps, I should take another look at those movies and try to view it through writer's eyes instead of "oh look...another I am man. See me crunch stuff. movie..." eyes.
I'm not a "Rocky" fan. Not sure why, he just never inspired me. I was stunned when I found out about "Rocky Balboa." I will not be seeing it.
No real writing resolutions. I can never keep them anyway.
IM Cupnjava - that's why I was so impressed with the movies, I thought that's what they would be. However, they're truly character movies, not boxing movies. Remember, the first one won an Oscar for best picture! I highly recommend you check them out.
I've only seen the first one and what I liked about it was how he never gave up. I think that's important for an unpub to remember - never give up. I never looked at it and analyzed his writing, I may do that some day. I've heard great reviews about the new one, but I don't think I'll see it.
My goals are pretty much the same as your - write the book. I'm part plotter and part pantser - I know how the book begins and ends, I don't plot out how they get there.
My goals are to finish my two historical ST novels this year, one women's fiction novel, and revise an already written women's fiction manuscript.
I believe in shooting for the stars : )
All the best in 2007!!!
Wishing you a Happy New Year. May you reach your writing goals!
Happy new year. I love the first Rocky, and am curious to see the new one.
Hey Nienke, and good luck!
Happy New Year, Nienke. And I agree with you. Finishing the first draft is mucho important. :)
Good luck.
What? You've been reading my troubles getting the first draft done? :)
My resolution for this year is to finish the novel I'm currently working on, and try to get my first sold.
About Rocky, I'm a fan, but I have yet to see the latest. I have heard that it is good.
Thanks for your visit and your comment!
I've been struggling lately with the "structured writing versus organic writing" thing too.
I used to be very organic and spontaneous, although I had started to plot things out ahead of time a lot more in the past few years. But this daily writing, word count/page goal thing is still new to me. It's hard to write when you're not immediately inspired. But, 80+k in two months is proof that it works.
Good luck in all your 2007 projects!
Happy New Year, Nienke! I'm working on finishing a first draft, too. I've given myself a Jan. 31st, 2007 deadline. (If and when I get this done, then I'll add other resolutions.)
Best of luck in yours!
I love Rocky because...
haha! Sounds like an essay. :) I love underdog movies where they beat the odds and rise to the top!
Happy New Year, Nienke!
Happy New Year Nienke! My writing resolution, like yours is to write more! Be more productive! And to finish these two books on time!
I saw it with That Man for our anniversary (I wanted to see Apocalypto instead). It was good, not fantastic. Rocky 4 is my favorite. This one was horribly depressing for at least the first 45-60 minutes. Oh. Dear. But then it picked up, he started training (only in the last 30 minutes or so). The finale was satisfying. Not cheer out loud crazy, or unbelievable, but good.
I'd say Rocky Balboa was the most inspirational movie I've seen in several years. And it had a story that was absolutely written for writers. It's moving, in places heartbreaking, and by far the best thing I've seen from Stallone. I'm not a fan. Or wasn't, until I saw this movie.
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