NaNoWriMo

So, what is this "NaNoWriMo"? (Other than a reason why I may create fewer blog posts this month?)

The acronym stands for "National Novel Writing Month," a product of the Office of Letters and Light, which also sponsors "Script Frenzy" each April. NaNoWriMo promotes creative writing by challenging participants to complete a 50,000 word (or more) original novel in one month, between 1 - 30 November. Thousands of writers from all over the globe participate, many taking advantage of the resources available on the sponsoring web site, as well as support from writing groups set up in key locations throughout the world.

One "wins" NaNoWriMo by simply accomplishing the goal of writing that much original fiction in one month. The goal is to produce the words, so the products are rough drafts, not polished or publishable tomes. Serious writers may opt to rewrite their work into finished novels after the competition. Indeed, some past participants have gone on to publish their novels. But such is not the real intent. NaNoWriMo primarily encourages would-be novelists to venture beyond the dreaming and dive into the actual crafting. In the process many learn that they can, indeed, just do it.

Last April I participated in Script Frenzy, which had a similar goal of writing a 100 page script for either stage, screen, or comic book, within the 30 days of 1 - 30 April. I'd never written drama before, but figured nothing to lose by trying, especially with the ship underway and time on my hands. Much to my surprised delight, I completed a three act play a few days short of the deadline. (Not, however, ready for prime time even to this day after several rewrites.) More importantly, I really enjoyed the process. When it was all over, I continued to develop my interest in dramatic writing and recently completed a draft teleplay for for a one-hour television drama pilot. (Also not ready for prime time, pending a couple more rewrites.)

So now I've elected to try creative fiction writing in the novel format. So far it's an interesting and fun transition from present tense, dialogue heavy, action-based writing to past tense, descriptive narrative emanating from the minds as well as the voices of the various characters. Also a bit daunting, I might add, which makes me appreciate those true professional authors who turn out best sellers year after year. Much as with Olympians or accomplished musicians, we admirers usually see only the polished perfection that is the result of hours, days, weeks, and years of steadfast practice and hard work.

But, if creating beauty or entertainment were really easy, where would be the pleasure of watching a virtuoso performance, enjoying a fine movie, or curling up with a really great book?

Kudos to those committed, creative professionals whose ardent labors enlighten our lives through art, music, and literature!