Writing is like everything else, part #2390-234(b)

[leahbobet]

Tonight, I am attempting to rewrite a very difficult scene. I am rewriting it because I realized it was structurally/narratively a duplication of something that came before, and didn't serve enough purpose, and made a particular character feel like she doesn't grow or change because of that duplication, which is one of the things that my-agent-I-show-you-her has mentioned in her notes. And then I had to turn around and check what that character's motives were, and then scale back up the whole thing from there.

I think I have the underpinnings now. Sort of. And so now I've disassembled the scene itself and I'm moving words around.

Tonight rewriting feels sort of like having a car engine in pieces. I'm sitting on the floor with my gloves on, with paragraphs and spare parts spread out all around me, and I have to stick them back together, or replace, or rewire just so; so it'll make heat and light again. And it has to weigh the right amount and be the right shape, or it won't fit into the rest of the car.

I have the distinct feeling I'd be having an easier time of this if I knew how to field-strip and reassemble some machinery...

(Back to work.)

Comments

[asatomuraki.livejournal.com]

I give you my sympathies, dear. I'm pretty much doing the same thing on my re-write, only most of it is things I've managed to catch on my own. (I know I'm not on the same level with you, but it is comforting to know that the process pretty much stays the same, even as we progress.)

[leahbobet.livejournal.com]

Bah, level. :p

[asatomuraki.livejournal.com]

Wasn't meant as flattery, just healthy self-awareness. I'm glad I have room for improvement in my writing and in my work ethic. Keeps life moving! ;)