Comments on: NaNoWriMo – National Novel Writing Month

By: Patricia Green

Patricia Green — Tue, 19 Nov 2013 16:56:52 +0000

We all use the tools that get the job done when we can. I would have a very hard time “blurting” out a rough first draft. I tend to edit as I go, which slows down the process. And, although it’s always so tempting to participate, I think the pressure would make me freeze up. I like to give myself deadlines, but I always know in my heart that if I go over a week, even two, I’m not screwing anything up.

By: Patricia Green

Patricia Green — Tue, 19 Nov 2013 16:53:33 +0000

I’ve give NaNoWriMo thought every year, but every year, I’m either already working on a book or the next book I’m supposed to begin doesn’t lend itself to 50K words.

I’m sure you’ll get to participate, Jenna. Probably sooner than you think!

By: Kathryn R. Blake

Kathryn R. Blake — Tue, 19 Nov 2013 03:21:11 +0000

I participated last year, as you know, but didn’t even attempt to do it this year. I never considered my book to be in a “publishable” form when I finished NaNo. When I received my certificate, I viewed it as having successfully completed my first, very rough, draft. I think that’s all anyone expects to accomplish in one month. It’s a hurry up and write activity, not a complete and submit scenario. There is a driving energy that comes with committing to the project that’s great when you tend to drag your feet. But you’re a fast writer, Trish, so I don’t think you need it. I, however, could benefit from the occasional spur to my flanks. 😉

By: Jenna Jaxon

Jenna Jaxon — Mon, 18 Nov 2013 23:41:03 +0000

I think the idea of NANO is wonderful. If only my schedule would allow me to compete I think it would help so much in getting a first draft done. I tried one year–got two chapters done–and then work crashed back in and I had to quit. I’m looking forward to the first NANO after I’m a full-time writer. Great post, Trish!

By: Patricia Green

Patricia Green — Mon, 18 Nov 2013 21:03:08 +0000

Good information, Maren! Thanks for sharing it.

By: Maren Smith

Maren Smith — Mon, 18 Nov 2013 21:00:45 +0000

The goal is not to publish what you write during NaNoWriMo. The goal is simply to write. I would hope any author who reached their goal limit would edit the hell out of their project before they publish it, just like they would any other story. Otherwise, they may have won the challenge, but they’ve just failed themselves!

Also, it doesn’t have to be 50k words in a single project. It just has to be 50k words. You can write a full book and a little bit, and still win.

By: TrishGreen

TrishGreen — Mon, 18 Nov 2013 20:47:48 +0000

I agree with you about the buzz, Ana. There is a sort of crackle in the air around participants and those who encourage them. I wish everyone could win!

By: Anastasia Vitsky

Anastasia Vitsky — Mon, 18 Nov 2013 20:32:32 +0000

Nano is a great project and a great idea. I remember when this concept was new. The excitement! For me (and I’ve never completed it), the fun is watching writing become “cool” even amongst my non-writer friends who think it’s great to give writing a try. I love the sense of community and cheering on others.

But for me, I’m actually writing more slowly these days and finding it helps me with the revising/editing process. To each her own.