Monday 12 March 2007

accretion... like a pearl, but not, obviously...

My 'smalltown' idea is starting to accrete... which is the process where a bunch of random bits floating about in my imagination start to draw themselves together by some sort of dim gravity, and begin to loosely fit together as something like a 'story'... I'm not quite there yet, but there's some promise. I'm getting names, a clearer locale, themes, snippettes... I'm actually getting a sensation of *wanting* to write this thing, which is a bloody miracle after all the interior resistance towards writing that I've been experiencing for quite a few weeks now.

Still don't know if my ed. will actually think this idea is suitable for the line, but it's worth a shot, if I can enthuse enough about the sexy, grown up romance between 'real' people angle. I think that's my strong area, whereas 'edgy', 'innovative' and 'high concept' aren't really me... Sometimes it's great to push yourself and go to new areas, but if it's really *too* much a stretch, I think it's worth continuing with a style/technique that you know you're good at... and just striving to do that thing even better each time!

Writers... what do you think? Do you strive to write 'different' just because that seems to be what the market wants? Or do you stick with what you know best, but instead try to up the ante, quality-wise, so your 'know best' output holds its own amongst the trends and fads?

--
Telly: UK History
Chocolate: Hotel Chocolat Excellence
Mood: not bad
Writing: brainstorming 'smalltown'
Reading: nothing much
RSI/FMS: not too bad

5 comments:

Nikki Magennis said...

So glad to hear everything's picking up, Wendy. The smalltown idea sounds very intriguing...

As for what I personally strive to write...nope, I'm hopelessly stubborn when it comes to writing for a market. I just try to write the best that I can, and keep it honest. At least, that's the plan! I have to enjoy what I'm writing, otherwise I might as well be working in a crummy but better paid office job.

Good luck with the new story.

Maria, Lover of All Things Romance said...

I like to write what I like to write and make sure the quality is up to par. It doesn't matter if the plot has been done a thousand times over, each author can give a fresh spin on things

Author Dara Edmondson said...

Best of luck with your new baby! I write what my heart tells me to, regardless of the trends. My first publisher was pushing for more fantasy, but I just can't do it.

Shelli Stevens said...

I think when I try to be different because that's what the industry wants, my quality can go down. Not always, but sometimes.

Saskia Walker said...

You worry too much :) Just because one thing is popular doesn't mean there isn't a demand for the other. Heat want me to write contemporary, even though paranormal is big. I imagine most publishers will realise that some readers don't want that element.