Ask the Author: Patricia Hamill
Answered Questions (3)
Patricia Hamill
To deal with writer's block I do a number of things.
One is to just free write. I'll write anything, about anything. Sometimes it turns into something I'll keep, sometimes not, but usually it gets me past the block. Another big one is exercise. I'll practice karate or something like that before I try to write. It works surprisingly well. Other times I'll mindmap or draft scenes in choppy, minimal sentences. Or, I'll write just enough to have a writing prompt for next time.
Overall, I think the biggest thing is to write something, even if it isn't for the project that's blocking me. Just write and the ideas will flow.
One is to just free write. I'll write anything, about anything. Sometimes it turns into something I'll keep, sometimes not, but usually it gets me past the block. Another big one is exercise. I'll practice karate or something like that before I try to write. It works surprisingly well. Other times I'll mindmap or draft scenes in choppy, minimal sentences. Or, I'll write just enough to have a writing prompt for next time.
Overall, I think the biggest thing is to write something, even if it isn't for the project that's blocking me. Just write and the ideas will flow.
Patricia Hamill
Great questions, James.
I tend to write on weekends or very late at night. I used to only write in a notebook and then type/edit everything into my computer about once a week, but now I write on my tablet. I love the portability of the tablet and the fact that it doesn't add the little spell and grammar check squiggles while I'm trying to get the story down.
I can write pretty much anywhere, but I prefer it to be somewhat quiet and mildly lit. Usually, at home. I also write during my son's Taekwondo practice, unless he's learning something new and I want to watch. That's a bit tough though because of all the shouting.
As for rituals, I don't really have any that I do while writing. But, for plotting that's a different story. I do most of my plotting on my drive to work or on my way home. I'll test out scenarios, dialog and plot twists aloud. I cannot have music running while I'm doing this in the car or when I'm actually writing. I also usually forget to stop to eat until my stomach complains at me, so the activity is pretty all-consuming.
I tend to write on weekends or very late at night. I used to only write in a notebook and then type/edit everything into my computer about once a week, but now I write on my tablet. I love the portability of the tablet and the fact that it doesn't add the little spell and grammar check squiggles while I'm trying to get the story down.
I can write pretty much anywhere, but I prefer it to be somewhat quiet and mildly lit. Usually, at home. I also write during my son's Taekwondo practice, unless he's learning something new and I want to watch. That's a bit tough though because of all the shouting.
As for rituals, I don't really have any that I do while writing. But, for plotting that's a different story. I do most of my plotting on my drive to work or on my way home. I'll test out scenarios, dialog and plot twists aloud. I cannot have music running while I'm doing this in the car or when I'm actually writing. I also usually forget to stop to eat until my stomach complains at me, so the activity is pretty all-consuming.
Patricia Hamill
First off, don't worry about writing something good, just write. The first draft is never going to be perfect, so don't worry about trying to make it so by editing as you go. Second, don't get too attached to a particular phrase, paragraph or idea. Sometimes you have to strike something you like for the good of the story. Third, don't forget why you wanted to be an author. It's supposed to be fun, so enjoy it. And don't be afraid to take a break if you need it.
(I originally wrote this for an interview on michaelscifan.us. It's a great blog worth following if you like hearing about new books.)
(I originally wrote this for an interview on michaelscifan.us. It's a great blog worth following if you like hearing about new books.)
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