I sat next to Shannon Hale during an author panel at nErD Camp MI* this summer, and I can’t stop thinking about what she had to say about drafting novels.
I’m writing a first draft and reminding myself that I’m simply shoveling sand into a box so that later I can build castles.
As I work on the beginnings of a novel idea I’ve avoided for almost a year, I’m focusing on Shannon’s words, I’m letting myself experiment and play, I’m settling into the notion of a years’ long journey with these characters in this place.
Friends, I’m excited and ready for wherever this one takes me, trusting today’s shoveling will lead to a something beautiful someday.
* If you scan through the pictures in this article, you’ll see me presenting to a roomful of fifth and sixth graders, making the face my sons call “Big Eyes.”
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What a lovely and perfect image!
Agreed and agreed.
I’m starting to write a new novel, too. I love that shoveling sand image!!! Thanks, Caroline!!
I’ll be thinking of you!
I love that quote so much…I often think of it when drafting. Right now I’m in the process of digging up some half-finished sand castles and trying to get them to stand up straight… Not the easiest task!
I like the way you’ve extended this metaphor. Best of luck, Faith.