pfunktion

I realize that, when I'm trying to write, I go beyond the old "two steps forward, one step back" saying. I take two steps forward, then kick myself in the head.
My present mess is a fine example. Now, all I'm doing is working on an outline. I figure if I can write out the structure, I'll be less likely to get stuck (not that I consider the outline to be hewn in stone, I have no problem deviating from it).

But- I'm already doubting myself. Not only have I found that I changed the reasons behind the conflict several times, I'm not even sure if it makes sense. Or, better yet, I decide my plot is stupid, childish, not worth the time. So, once again, I find myself above the virtual trashcan, ready to throw it away.

I must stop! This is silly. I'm not gonna get anywhere by trashing everything..this time before it even began. So what if this turns out to by a big word 'turd', at least its something...right?

Anyone else plagued with so much damned doubt? Should I push through it, or should I keep flailing away till I find something I find 'worthy'.

Gargh! Damned frustrating this writing business!

Rob

Are we talking short story, or novel, or what?

I would say, if it's a short story, just finish it first, so that you've got something. Then put it away in a drawer for a few days. Then read it and revise as you see fit. Once you've done that, post it here for feedback.

If it's longer than a short story, same idea, but rather then the whole thing post a sample here and a synopsis, and see what people think.

Sometimes you can be your own worst enemy, and you need to stand back and let others take a look.

Good luck,
Omni

Cora Windover

I know what you mean! I think that kind of 'dumpster' revision is healthy and good. As long as you can recognise when something should be trashed, do it. Change things. CHange them all the time, change them until you are absolutely sure it's the ebst it can be. The only way to write well is to be picky and perfectionistic.... but don't get carried away. Get someone else's opinion. I have a writer friend of mine who I show all my stuff to and he tells me what's wrong... sometimes assuring me of what I had previously concluded, sometimes surprising me. But he's usually right ~.^

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Your father may be father to all the boys, but still...
He's not the man who sired you; so marry who ye will.

Proliffick ~.^

DawnMorningStar

Have you tried using writing software? There are some programs that help you in every step of the developing process. It really helped me to stay focused and on track and figure out what the real goal of my story is. Just a suggestion.

Chris

I hate everything I write, and like you it often leads to frustration and trashing of potential projects.

I think the best thing to do is accept that your first draft is shit (I think Hemmingway said that), and just write. When you have your first draft, THEN you can worry about making it perfect. In fact, I know some writers who find revising exciting because that's when the sculpting truly takes place. The first draft is just your hunk of clay.

Really, it's all about dismissing that annoying voice in your head that tells you you're useless, untalented and laughable as a writer. I think we all have one of those. Try to ignore it.

Good luck with your writing.

- Chris

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"...Biting my truant pen, beating myself for spite:
Fool! said my Muse to me, look in thy heart and write. - Sir Philip Sidney