So why do we do it? That question has been posed over and over again lately. What are they talking about? National Novel Writing Month. (NaNoWriMo) So I thought I would take a moment to explain why I do it, and what the big draw is.
First of all, I am a writer. Ever single day I get up and I write articles for the several websites I write for, any clients that are due and I check out any new clients and what they need. I accept and decline offers. And then I write articles I plan to submit to places on my own. All day long, everyday I am a freelance writer. That works just fine.
I try to find minutes, hours and days in a month to sit and write and plot and plan out novels I find the time. I try to make the time. Trust me, my fingers are itching to type most days and when I am not near my laptop, I usually have a pen and several note pads with me at all times. (You’d laugh if you saw my calendar in my purse – I doodle, jot notes and write stuff all over the margins when I cannot find clean paper).
The reason I partake in National Novel Writing Month in November each year, is because it is a nice, focused time. And it is a time when I can plot, plan, sit and write out a novel with others who are doing exactly the same thing at exactly the same time. I can get feedback, I can brainstorm, I can interact with other writers, and I can enjoy a month of something “just for me”.
Now, don’t get me wrong – I write novels all year long. Three months ago I finally put the finishing touches on last years NaNo Novel. This is my 5th year participating and I have not won every year, though I have last year and the year before. Will I win this year? I’m not sure. I hope so. It’s a great way to get a nicely planned out rough draft in 30 days. It’s a dedicated time for me.
Someday when I am a famous author with all my books on the best sellers lists, I won’t forget my humble NaNo beginnings, and I will remember to thank the little people. And unless I have a deadline, I bet I’ll be with all the crew in November come National Novel Writing Time again.
So – that’s why!
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I’m not a writer. Well, not a professional one, or a published one. Nor do I really have any aspirations towards becoming professional or published. But, I just, as in just an hour or two ago, signed up for the NaNo this year.
I found your blog on the NaNo forums. I have no real idea how to get 50,000 words out…so I’m hoping I can lean heavily on the examples and experiences of others.
Please add me to your buddy list! I need encouragement!
Good luck. Hope you get to your 50,000 this year.
I’ve just tagged you for some awards, but you only have to acknowledge them if you want. See them at my blog.
I’m a writer, too, but never participated in NaNoWriMo. I like your take on it here, the dedicated time to do something for yourself. Sounds like a great community. I also hear you on the itching to type even when you’re away from the keyboard. The writing never stops, in a way.