So how's this for weird...
I sat down at the computer today, determined to churn out a bit of this new story and ease my restless mind. The words came, no problem. They're not perfect, nor do they convey the scene like I want, but that's what revisions are for. The weirdness? They came out in present tense.
I have never, ever, ever written anything in present tense. I often struggle to read present tense. Now I usually adjust and begin to stop noticing it after a while, but not always. There usually comes a time when it slaps me abruptly out of the story. Anyway, what are the odds?
I think it all comes down to the fact that I'm not as prepared to tell this story as I usually am. So it's almost like my mind/character decided to just have a go of it, telling the story as it unfolds. I'm not sure what I think of this.
I'm pretty sure I'll be starting fresh tomorrow. I just don't think I can pull off an entire novel in present tense and not lose my mind.
Any thoughts?
59 minutes ago
11 comments:
I have to admit, I am not a fan of present tense, either. I shy away from it in my writing and my reading. But sometimes, the story has to be told that way, I guess.
I wouldn't worry about it too much at this point - just wait and see what unfolds!
My story switched to the present tense at one point without me even knowing what I'd done. I went back and changed it because present tense usually drives me crazy, too.
Although, I think A Great and Terrible Beauty is present tense, and I didn't struggle with that. I could be remembering wrong, but I don't think so.
You know, I have read quite a few erotica short stories (never pubbed by a real pub because it's against the rules) that were second person, present tense.
And I think it works REALLY well in that.
I don't mind present tense so much. It's very immediate and in the action. It just has to work is all. :-)
The novel I'm reading now is in present tense, and I don't usually notice it, but sometimes it gets awkward. It is a gamble, because so many people prefer past tense.
It's hard to argue with your muse, though.
Melissa - I'm afraid of totally screwing myself up. LOL! I started over today. :)
Honestly, I think that was more character development than anything. Getting to know the character in my own head.
Robin - You're right about A Great and Terrible Beauty (and the rest of Libba Bray's trilogy). I actually went back and looked through it yesterday after I surprised myself. Like you, the present tense didn't bother me there. I think if it is done well, I stop noticing as the book progresses. But there are others that really grind on my mind. I'll finally adjust and then there will be a line of dialogue followed by, "I say." I say? Gets me every time.
Spy - I can totally see how second present would work in erotica. Definitely.
And you're absolutely right about present tense being right there in the action. I was tempted by that immediacy since this novel will be more action based. But alas, I don't know that my mind can pull if off over 300 pages.
So true, Tia. When it works, it really works.
My muse and I had a talk and I think I'm back on track. :)
Sounds like a growth spurt to me. I say go with it! Reminds me of the time I wrote a Short Story. I NEVER write Short Stories. So, now I'm taking the time to learn how so I can present it to the world in a manner the world can comprehend.
;)
I agree with kimber an! Treat it like a growth spurt.
Hey, you disappeared! How's everything going? What's up? Everything okay?
:-)
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