Francelia Belton
“Faith is taking the first step even when you don’t see the whole staircase.” – Martin Luther King, Jr.
That is how it is for me when I begin a new story. Taking that first step and not knowing what the story is going to be about, but having the faith that by the time I get to the end, I will have a whole story. I start with a first line and from there take it line by line, step by step, until I discover what the story will be about. And that most definitely was the case with my short story “Lewenda Gets Married,” which will appear in a multi-genre anthology called Glimpse: A New World.
I enjoyed reading your post, Francelia! Thanks for giving us a glimpse (how appropriate) into your writing process and strategies.
Hi Bonnie! Thank you for having me on your blog! I enjoyed writing the post and it was an interesting exercise to actually think about how I get my stories out of me. I usually don’t think that hard. I just do it. Lol.
Francelia,
It’s interesting to read about another writer’s process. Best wishes for the continued success with your work.
Thank you for stopping by to read my post, Jacqueline, and your best wishes. It is interesting to read other author’s processes. I read all of the other posts here; I enjoyed all of them.
I’m fascinated by this. It makes me want to write more short stories. If I were to take your magical approach to a novel, I’m afraid I’d waste my time more often than not. At least with a short, I’d discover if it wasn’t working sooner (presumably) rather than later.
Best of luck on your release!
Hi Peg! Yes, you should write more short stories. Perhaps in between your novels? You can write short stories about your characters. And yes, my approach to writing short stories is akin to “magic”. Lol. I am always surprised, yet pleased, by what I pull out of the hat. Thanks for stopping by to visit!
Francella, your method of writing a short story worked. You pulled me more into the story with each paragraph, and you left me wanting to know what she did to the cad who married her. First, I’m adding you to my list of writers to watch for and second, I’m going to find the anthology so I can read the rest of the story.
Francelia, I had to come back to apologize for misspelling your name. The “i” looked like another “l” at first. Maybe you’ll forgive me if I tell you I’m also a devoted fan of Dancing with the Stars and am anxious for the new season to start.
Hi Earl!
No problem about the misspelled name. I’ve had that problem all my life. Lol. And I really didn’t even notice in the first place, because I was just awed by the fact that you said such encouraging words to me. You are one of the great story writers on the SMFS list and I’m honored that you think I am a writer to watch for. I hope I don’t disappoint you. And thank you again. Your words really did mean a lot to me.
P.S. I’m looking forward to the new season of DWTS too. Just 3 more weeks I believe. 🙂
P.P.S. The anthology has not been released yet, but I’ll let everyone know when it is. Thank you.