November 25, 2005 | Uncategorized
Yesterday, I had major plot problems. My poor editor got frantic emails and an earful of Panicked Author over the phone. Luckily, she is calm and cool enough to deal with such things with tact, professionalism, and good grace.
I’m not. I freaked out all over the place.
But today, Anna and I had a no-holds-barred brainstorming session and the problem is solved. In a very simple, elegant way, which should have been obvious from the start.
Which reminds me that I should always sleep on things and talk them over with my friends before I freak out. Unfortunately I forget that, mid-freakshow.
Kris Starr says:
Thanks *loads* for putting that song in my head. Not that I really, truly mind–because I love the song. But because it’ll take days before I get it out again.
Curses!
ps. Tried emailing you that picture I promised, and got a warning that delivery was delayed, so I don’t know if you ever received it or not.
Danica says:
Glad you got it figured out!
Michelle Styles says:
Hooray for you on figuring it out. I am sure the mss will be much stronger for it!!!
Kate Hardy says:
Well done for running with it, rugby-tackling it, and kicking the problem into touch. Bet your ed LOVES this incarnation. (Remember, you said this to me last week… so I know I’m right…)
Liz Fielding says:
There’s always another way to write a good story, Julie, hard though it is to have to walk away from the one you’ve worked so hard on.
What a professional! (Freaking goes with the job…)
Biddy says:
WOOOOOOOOO!!!!!!!!! Go you!
Anna Lucia says:
That’s not a bad process, is it? Freak for a limited time (perfectly natural), brainstorm in concentrated fashion, get on and write new story.
There’s not many who can go from emergency stop to mach 3 in a different direction in around 24 hours…
*slaps on gold star for professionalism*
Michelle says:
Glad you figured out the problems and got them fixed! Now send Anna my way so she can help me!
Julie says:
It does reassure me that other writers understand the need to freak. I am also a drama queen, and have to freak in public. Maybe not so professional. But at least it’s over quickly.
I like the analogy of an emergency stop that quickly turns to mach 3 in a different direction, Anna. I also like the rugby tackle analogy, Kate. Both appropriate for a story called Rush, I guess.
Liz, I’m going to keep those words: There’s always another way to write a good story. It’s all a learning experience.