In just four days, the 10th anniversary of National Novel Writing Month begins. You can join thousands worldwide in their quest to write a 50,000-word novel in 30 days. Many who never thought they could do this have done so; some have even turned these first drafts into published novels.
I have participated in NaNoWriMo for the past three years, and I have won every time. (For newbies reading this, "winning" = writing 50,000 words within those 30 days. Everybody who reaches this benchmark "wins".) This year, I've signed up again, yet with a different goal from previous years.
Some new characters have been entering my writing life lately, and I'm very interested in who they are. They are unrelated to my other novel drafts (which together are a trilogy), and are a bit mysterious, which intrigues me.
Perhaps some short story folks have moved into my imagination, and, in order to get to know them better, I need to start writing so they can fully pour out their stories to me. This could turn into a novel, and I'll know more when I'm in the process. Short stories never reach the 50,000-word mark, so instead of aiming for the ultimate word count, I'll focus on story exploration within the supportive framework of the program.
So, technically, I'm not initially attempting to win NaNoWriMo, but I'll be there anyway. Having been through this wonderfully fruitful and intense month multiple times now, I find it too enjoyable and constructive to give up.
I've written extensive tips and advice on how to get the most from NaNoWriMo. Here are the most useful of the batch, if you're interested:
°Be the mountain
°National Novel Writing Month: Here's YOUR chance to write that novel
°How to "win" National Novel Writing Month in 5 (no, 6) easy steps
°Sign up today for National Novel Writing Month
If you sign up, drop a comment, I'll link to your blog or NaNoWriMo writer page, and we'll cheer you on!
UPDATE: Julio Angel Ortiz over at Vox Bomb will be joining the fray in his 2nd NaNoWriMo attempt. Best of luck, Julio! (Any other brave participants out there?)
UPDATE 2: QuietRebelWriter and Erik Sherwood are also participating! Happy speed-noveling trails, you two, and keep us posted on your progress!
UPDATE 3: Margay is on the NaNoWriMo road, too. Let's go, Margay!
Long-time lurker here. :-) I'm trying NaNoWriMo for the second year, and I hope to "win" it this time around. Great blog, by the way, and I love your writing music mix here (looks like a mix from my Zune).
Posted by: Julio Angel Ortiz | October 29, 2008 at 01:39 AM
Hi Julio — Thanks for delurking and for your comment! Best of luck with your 2nd NaNoWriMo attempt — I'll link to your blog.
Your comment about my music mix has given me an idea for another post...
Posted by: KG | October 29, 2008 at 09:46 AM
Yes, I am embarking upon my first ever NaNoWriMo. Yes, I am a bit freaked and excited and experiencing other feelings that make up a confusing stew. But hell, why not, right?? I'm ready to take it on, and very thankful for bloggers like you sharing their tips, experiences, and advice. Thanks!
Posted by: QuietRebelWriter | October 29, 2008 at 10:52 AM
Another lurker here who decided to step up and join the fray! I just got signed up with NaNoWriMo and joined my region. I am totally stoked and nervous all at the same time, so it should be a great ride! Can't wait for November One!
Posted by: Eric Sherwood | October 29, 2008 at 11:48 AM
QuietRebelWriter — You are very welcome! I have linked to your blog, and thanks so much for your comment.
Eric Sherwood — Absolutely! I've always described NaNoWriMo as a wild ride AND completely worth it. Three days and counting...
Posted by: KG | October 29, 2008 at 12:23 PM
I am also doing NaNo this year, though I am at a complete loss as to what to do just yet. I have a lot of ideas. The hard part is choosing one.
Posted by: Margay | November 01, 2008 at 06:54 AM
Margay — I've added you to the list of participants! Onward. :)
Posted by: KG | November 02, 2008 at 12:18 AM