Things I Wish I'd Known About Storytelling

As I sit down to reflect on my writing, I can’t help but think about how much simpler things could have been with a guide or at least more creative writing classes in college. Writing my first novel was filled with ups and downs, offering excitement and frustration in equal measures. If I could turn back time, I would share these five essential insights about storytelling that could have made my path clearer and writing much easier.

1. Characters Drive Your Narrative

A lot of people read a book and get bored with the plot because "they've seen it before." What's important to remember is to focus on character development. It really doesn't matter how generic your plot is, so long as you have characters to cling to and become invested in.

One reader might connect deeply with Elizabeth Bennet from "Pride and Prejudice," while another might root for Harry Potter. Characters should have clear goals, strengths, and weaknesses, and keep in mind that flaws or weaknesses need to be more than just surface level. For instance, your protagonist could be a brilliant scientist, but at the same time, they are extremely arrogant and end up pushing away anyone and everyone they get close to, or maybe your protagonist is an alcoholic. Their personal struggle makes their journey relatable and engages readers on a deeper level.

2. The Power of Showing vs. Telling

This is something I struggle with. In my initial drafts, I often told the reader how characters felt or described the environment directly. It took time to understand that showing is far more effective for immersing the reader. How do your characters react to their environment?

Instead of stating "she was sad," illustrate the moment: "Tears streamed down her cheeks as she clutched the photo, the pain in her chest tightening with each memory." This approach engages your reader and allows them to experience emotions with the characters, making your narrative far more compelling.

3. The Importance of Revision

Ah, the revision stage! Like many, I thought typing “The End” meant my work was finished. I quickly learned that the real artistry often happens during editing and then later finding a professional editor who pointed out how things could be better.

My initial drafts were a mix of ideas and emotions, but revision is where I refined my voice and improved plot coherence. For instance, I had a ton of characters because I wanted the world to feel real and immersive, but having too much to focus on can make reading a chore for the reader. So I had to see what characters served the story well and what ones could be merged with other characters to provide much-needed clarity. Writers should always take the time to modify their writing to ensure all of the subplots don't take away from the main narrative. Sometimes it takes setting your draft aside for a few days before revisiting it. With fresh eyes, you can catch inconsistencies or identify areas that need more depth.

Wrapping It All Up

Writing is not merely about finishing a novel; it's a continuous process of learning and being willing to allow your story to take a different path than what you had first planned.

Equipped with these insights, I feel more confident in my ability to craft engaging stories. If you're just beginning in attempting to write a story, embrace the unique experiences that only you can tell and write your story. It’s about enjoying the process and growing with your characters.

So take that first step: pen your thoughts, explore your creativity, and cherish the discovery that awaits you. You may find yourself surprised by the insights you gain along the way.