Most writing begins in fragments. Loose thoughts, scattered lines, a shape slowly forming in the dark. So, it’s perfectly fine to write in fragments as you move forward on the page. Many developing writers worry that this isn’t the ‘right’ way to approach a longer project. But here’s the truth: there is no right or wrong way to write. It’s about what works for you. This is totally something we drill down on in our creative writing retreats in Florence!
When a story’s been circling you for years, it rarely arrives in a straight line. As an editor and writer, I tell people all the time: it’s not only okay to write in fragments, but it’s often how the best stories begin.
So many early-stage writers get stuck thinking they must write their story chronologically. That belief becomes one of the biggest roadblocks to progress. But characters will often take shape in scattered scenes.
Don’t get fixated on one moment or one side of your character’s personality. Capture every scene that comes to you. Jot down their inner thoughts. Keep the momentum going.
You can figure out the structure later. You can connect the dots in future drafts. You can write the segues, transitions, and summaries after the heart of the story is down.
ASSEMBLE LATER. Just keep writing.
In other news:
Only one place left on each retreat! If you’ve been waiting for the right moment to invest in your writing, this is it. Join us in Florence for five transformative days—June 1–5 for The Art of Plot and Theme, or July 6–10 for The Art of Telling Your Story. Your story is waiting. Are you ready to write it?
DIALOGUE ALERT!
Free Zoom Author Chat: "Time to Write" with Jane Corry
Mark your calendars. This TIME TO WRITE is for anyone wanting to deepen their understanding of dialogue.
Date: June 17
Time:
• 10:00 AM (UK)
• 11:00 AM (Italy)
• 7:00 PM (Sydney)
Jane Corry will be joining us to discuss:
- What is the purpose of dialogue in storytelling, especially for beginner writers to understand?
- How do you make dialogue sound natural without it becoming boring or too realistic?
- What are the biggest mistakes new writers make when writing dialogue?
Bring your questions and get ready to write better scenes, sharper character voices, and dialogue that moves your story forward.
In more news:
Keep an eye on your inbox for our upcoming two-part series on Sense of Place and Technology. Originally featured in Northerly, the latest edition of the Byron Bay Writers Festival magazine, this series explores how we can preserve and evoke a strong sense of place in our writing using our digital life. Let’s look at how digital toys can work hand-in-hand with atmosphere and belonging.
Lisa
