This is something I’ve considered before.
Novel or Short Story, Part 2
Maybe I just need to wrap things up and call it a day.
Writing a novel is a daunting task. A finished novel, after editing and cutting, will be about 60,000 words. Which means I need to write about 80,000 or more. Gotta give the editor plenty to slash out of the manuscript. Sigh…
So maybe I should consider changing my goal.
Have you ever considered the novella?
There is a lot more wiggle room regarding word count, with a novella. Usually between 30 to 60,000. With fewer words, comes fewer characters, fewer scenes, and fewer conflicts. Story structure is still very important but with the novella, things happen fast. There isn’t time to drag out the tension nor room to waste words.
No, we must get to the point quickly, leading the reader to the climax with little detours.
How would you go about taking your current WIP and turning it into a novella?
- Make an outline using 3 acts
- Limit the characters to those necessary to the purpose of the story
- Edit out unnecessary characters and subplots (this is hard)
- Limit to one single but satisfying conflict, question or goal
- Increase and build the pace toward the final conflict during the 3rd act.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nit88wvBnnA
Want to read more about writing a novella read the following article from Bridget over at Now Novel
How to write a novella: 6 essential tips
What do you think? Do you see a novella in your future?
Do you think it would be harder or easier to write a novella?
Still want more? Click and read Part 1:
Why Not Turn Novel into a Short Story?
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