In this current revision phase, I’ve finished up the first part of my novel and now delving into my *most* favorite part — the dreaded middle.
I’m a plot chick so it has taken me a few revisions to get the logic of my rules and world right. I can’t move further until this is done. Now for this revision, I’m focusing on character development, which tends to solidify later for me.
The middle of your novel is a great place to really dig in and reveal your characters to your readers. The middle is where you can make use of flashbacks in a scene structure, reveal the dynamics of relationships, and most of all identify the protagonist’s yearning.
You’ve hooked your reader with the first part. You’ve set up the situation, introduced the inciting incident and changed the protagonist’s world. Now in the middle, you can reveal the layers of your characters — but the trick is also having a strong plot line that still keeps the reader intrigued.
It’s a delicate balance.
How many of you are working on your middle? Do you dread it? What do you concentrate on when in you’re in this part of your novel?
The Middle
August 11, 2010 Read Comments
Wow!! Not sure I have the stamina to do a whole novel. Even with PB’s after working on them awhile I’m ready to move on to a new story. Guess that’s my ADD kicking in!! I know this didn’t have anything to do with the question you asked but…. you go girl!!! keep working and plotting!!
I’m in the middle right now of my WIP. I’ve put it aside for a few days to attend WriteOnCon, read, and think about the middle. I know exactly what I want to happen, but as you mentioned, there hasn’t been enough angst for the MC with a familial relationship. I’m thinking I glossed over it too quickly. So, I think I’ll be spending time going back and looking for ways to enhance some scenes. Good luck in your revision.
Jeannine: Ha, I admire PB writers. I’m so long-winded, I highly doubt that I could ever write something within 500 words.
Catherine: I have glossed over my MC’s familial relationship as well. Character development is something I always have to dig in and work on in my revisions. I think I love plotting a little *too* much.
The middle is the tough part for me. Actually, so is the end. The beginning is the only part I can nail. but I’ll get there!
Michele
Writers Jailed today on SouthernCityMysteries
Michele: Actually the end is rough for me. I *think* I finally have my ending figured out. When I get to the last third of this novel, we’ll see if that stays true.
I love the name of your blog. :)
I’m heading in to the middle of my first draft right now. Fingers crossed!
Julie: Maybe we can help each other out. The middle is always the hardest part. But I think I have a good plot turn this revision round to keep it interesting.