The Process Project -- More from Amanda Pate!!

Welcome back to Week 1 of the Process Project Blog series! 

Today is a continuation of yesterday’s interview with the lovely Amanda Pate. Click hereto catch up on the first half of our interview where we talked about why she writes, what she writes, and how she writes. Today, we will find out a little more about how she writes and revises!

J:  When you are preparing to write a new story, what kinds of techniques or methods do you use to organize your ideas?

A: For the most part, it doesn't matter what genre I'm writing, I generally tackle the brainstorms and preparation in the same way. I allot at least a week for an idea to percolate. I make notes on my phone, in my journal, or anywhere I can keep track of what I write, and save it for a later time. During that week, I mull it over, think about it, try and discern the characters, what their basic personalities will be, etc. And after a week, or sometimes two, I can start my brainstorming process.

"Madman, Architect, Carpenter, Judge"

So for today's entry into the blog challenge, I have to admit that I am going to have to cheat a little. I came down with some kind of a virus last night that involves severe dizziness, and the inability to type up a blog entry. So, for today's entry, I am actually referring you to another article you MUST read. It is called Madman, Architect, Carpenter, Judge and it is written by Betty Flowers. It discusses the revision process and is a must read for all writers: http://www.ut-ie.com/b/b_flowers.html thank you.

Why does all my dialogue sound stupid?

To continue from yesterday's questions posed by my friend, Heather, here is one about dialogue (my favorite thing to write!)

Heather: Why does all my dialogue sound stupid?

First of all, I laughed when I got this question, mostly because it probably doesn't sound stupid.

In my opinion, dialogue sounds "stupid" when:

a) It's not realistic enough.
b) It's too realistic.

Here are some things to think about...