by Shelt Garner
@sheltgarner
Of all the “duh” things I’ve discovered during the course of developing and writing this novel, the one I’ve realized recently is up there – you really need to establish character right out of the gate. It is within that context that you have to convey to the audience — as quickly as possible — what the fuck the story is about.
In reviewing the latest version of this second draft of the novel, I realize I may have finally, finally stumble across why Stieg Larsson starts The Girl With Dragon Tattoo the way he does. That story opens with establishing the stakes — our Hero has just had his reputation ruined and he is looking for a way to redeem himself.
I now — finally — not only establish the stakes of the story but I also know what the fuck the story is about.
Despite my joy and this new development, I also feel a bit sheepish that it’s taken me this fucking long to get to this point. But, I suppose, I just should be grateful that I’ve figure all of this out at all.
But I have.
The first couple of chapters lay the groundwork for the events that happen during the course of the story. And, what’s more, I’ve come up with a really interesting characters that I hope — HOPE — will engage readers to the point that they’re willing to spend the hours necessary to finish the novel.
It’s been a real fucking struggle. It really has.
