I’m currently in the process of writing my fourteenth novel.
I adore the early stages of crafting a story. I’ve also learned to pay close
attention to an idea when the faucet transitions from a drip to a steady flow. In
the past few months I’ve brainstormed several unique concepts for future
novels. Most don’t stick. But there are those that do. These are the ones worth
exploring for me.
One question I’ve pondered over years and years of writing is
how I know when a story is a keeper.
How do I know when
an idea is a keeper?
When the story begins
to tell itself.
I wake up with character revelations. I go to bed with
dialogue running through my thoughts. During conversations with friends I draw
mental connections with what’s going on with my characters. I can’t shake the
plot. It infiltrates my life—until somehow it’s become this undeniable thing I
must address.
I trust I’m to pursue an idea when the characters begin
telling me their story.
So, have a seat. Tell me, how do you know when you’ve begun
something worth your time and investment?
