Writing and Doughnuts

Scott Bailey over at The Literary Lab said the other day “Inhabit your writing, but let the writing be bigger than you are.”  I found this an astute observation and have been thinking about it ever since. 

First off, inhabit your writing.  This is necessary for a writer.  You have to live, eat and sleep what you write if you really want it to ring true.  I hear a lot of writers say “I see what is happening” which is great.  The next step (which will really take it to the next level and make it a spectacular novel that agents will fight over) is to BE the person as it is happening.  Sure you can see they look surprised but unless you ARE the person you won’t know that the surprise is hiding fear.  These inside emotions and descriptions, the truth you put in by being that person when you write, are what make a novel come alive. 

Second, let the writing be bigger than you are.  Let’s face it the world is a whole lot bigger than any mere mortal.  We have to tap into that, not let our own limitations cage our novel.  Have you ever read a book that just didn’t quite make it out of the driveway?  You could tell that the author had blinders on when he wrote it and refused to expand him or herself.  That kind of writing leaves you wanting, and not in a good way. 

Then Scott said something else that stuck with me-“Anyone ready for a doughnut?”  Oh Scott, of course I am, especially if it’s a chocolate covered, chocolate doughnut with nuts on top.  Mmmmmm. 

Sorry, had to stop and wipe drool off the keyboard. 

So, what’s your favorite doughnut?