Write Something, Damn it!

(I've mailed out two zombie t-shirts and a load of bookmarks over the past couple of months to random commenters. Want to get one for you? Then leave a comment below and BAM, you're entered. Super easy.)

I don't plot. I never have. But as I stare at the next chapter in my work in progress, Chapter 18 and it's blank page, I wonder if somehow I should change my ways.

Nah! Never! *Blows raspberries in your general direction*

Yeah, I have these bizarre moments where I stare and wonder what should happen next. I mean, I know what's supposed to happen in a couple of chapters from this point (I keep mental notes, I'm not a total weirdo. Who am I kidding, yes I am), but for right here, right now, there are so many opportunities open to me. So many possibilities. My characters could do anything at this point. Go swimming? Maybe. Go shopping? Sure. Eat a burrito? Heck, why not.

No, my characters need to do something that adds to the story and furthers their development... but what? I don't know!

I read an article today by Writer's Digest on How To Write a Book: 3 Practical Tips, and tip three got to me. I'm living tip three. I just finished writing Chapter 17 in my current work in progress ANYONE? and I stare at Chapter 18 wondering what the heck to do. If I walk away, it might take me days to come back with an idea. I don't want to waste that time. So I need to commit and put something down on paper. Hmm... what to do, where to go?

"Why not just plot," you say. Because I've been in this predicament before and have worked myself through it. The hard times are part of the process too. As much as I'd like to skip them, I can't. My creative brain just doesn't work that way. But before I walk away from my laptop, I will at least get that first paragraph written. That is my goal.

I'm wearing my writing poncho, so it will be done.