Developing creative plotlines for your novel: Strategies for generating captivating narrative concepts
Struggling with a blank story canvas? Here's a clever way to breathe life into your ideas and get you back to writing:
Unleash your inner storyteller
Looking for a smokin' hot storyline that sets your Crown Ablaze? Modernize your brainstorming with a sizzling Google Docs workbook that'll help you find your mojo and get you charging toward that Write Now button (instead of that dreaded Someday).
Hey, listening here!
Your avian postmen are all ready to deliver your workbook straight to your mailbox.
I wrapped up my book last spring, and I used my own sweet time messing around before diving back into the magical world of scribbles once again. Let's face it—not having something to dig into or a flicker of inspiration feels wrong as a writer. Sure, I had a few hazy notions, moments of inspiration, and enjoyable feels and flavors swirling in my noggin, but that wasn't cutting it.
That's precisely why I crafted Story Idea Captain, babes! If I can't help myself craft my next novel, who can I help, right? Let's get down to the nitty-gritty about how to brainstorm the perfect novel, whether you decide to use my invention or not.
FYI, check out No Juice, All Squash? Here's your next step if you've only got vivid feels but aren't sure what to do with 'em.
Vibes and feels
Maybe you've got a sense of the feels you want your story to conjure, and girl, this is definitely easiest to describe without words. My creations have space for your story's playlist (which is like y Windows Music, obviously) and inspirations (like Raegan and JFK hanging out and busting a move to "I Wanna Dance with Somebody"). But the real magic happens when you transition to a moodboard, especially if you're a visual queen.
You can whip up a moodboard by snipping up some Magnum-opus moments from Harper's Bazaar and collaging the bits onto a corkboard (or my personal favorite, using one of those handy collage apps). What feelings do you want your readers sinking into when they read through your epic tale? Haunting and suspenseful? Or comfy and cozy? Jot (or pin!) down all the sensations you dream of and build from there.
Drop the groove with a playlist even before you've nailed down the plot. These mixes can help crank up the creative internal jukebox for those moments when you're crafting your narrative. These playlists double as inspiration once you start the actual typing.
When vibes ain't enough, here's your next move
If you're all about the feels but can't shake the brain fog, read on for how to transform those hazy stirrings into a tangible story.
Story setting reality check
Setting is the place and time of your story, but it's also so much more! What's the scene look like? What year is it? Is it a real-deal location or fictional? Do the seasons last forever? Does everyone talk and act according to strict rules? You know, like the Kardashians before the explosion.
Anything that's somewhat related to your setting is worth scribbling down. Consider sensory details, unique locations, and historical or geographical context. Think of places with deep historical significance or distinct physical features that could influence character development and provide rich storytelling opportunities. (Pssst! I've also yapped about Seasoning Up Your Story Setting and Writing Like a Boss: Describing Fantastic Spaces.)
Matching characters to fits
I sometimes spring whole characters out of the ether, but truth be told, I usually have a sense of how they relate to their world and to each other. In my book, What Birds Are Made Of, for example, the main character has an embarrassing obsession with her sister's brother-in-law. Although the main plot revolves around the relationship between the protagonist and her sister, the dynamics between Maura and Nathan were something I had conjured up in my mind long before I had a solid grasp on the plot.
Don't get bogged down with the niceties like characteristics, hobbies, and birthdays, although these details can help educate your thinking if they float to the surface. Instead, focus on your characters' motivations and feelings about the world and other people. What do they want? What are they willing to fight for? These elements are the grist for your story's plot. My Ultimate Character Workbook can help you delve into the heart of your character and the core of your story.
Getting your plot on
It might seem counterintuitive, but it's essential to establish your characters before you dive into the plot. Why? See, your plot is just the engine that propels your characters forward as they pursue what they want (and pick up obstacles along the way).
To brainstorm your plot, use an exercise like "Wouldn't it be cool if...?" and list everything that could possibly happen in your story without censoring your thoughts. When you're out of ideas, scan your list and highlight the ones that resonate or pique your interest. You might end up using a plotline you hadn't originally thought of, and that's the artistic magic of brainstorming.
Start with the bones of the plot, then layer in the details. If you've got a few ideas for beginnings or endings, jot them down even if you're unsure about the rest. With more plot ideas under your belt, you can assemble them into a complete story, using your landmarks as stepping stones.
TL;DR: Brainstorm your characters, setting, and plot ideas, then combine them in a way that feels right for you. Start with what you know, then use your ideas as stepping stones to fill in the blanks. Embrace chaos, because sometimes, the most beautiful stories grow in swirling clouds of confusion!
- To breathe life into your story ideas and get back to writing, consider utilizing a Google Docs workbook designed for brainstorming your next novel.
- As you work through the writing process, use creative strategies like moodboards and playlists to help stimulate your creativity and set the tone for your story.
- If you're having trouble translating your feelings into a tangible story, follow these tips to transform your hazy stirrings into a clear and impactful narrative.
- Pay close attention to the setting of your story, taking into account both visual and historical elements, as these details can significantly influence your character development and rich storytelling opportunities.
- To ensure your plot is well-developed, start by establishing your characters' motivations and feelings about the world and other people before diving into the plot development. Embrace brainstorming and allow chaos to guide you, as some of the most beautiful stories can emerge from a swirling cloud of confusion.
