Thread: A few fiction writing questions...

I'm new to the site and working on something. I just have a couple questions. I'm looking for a bit of advice, tips, etc. I'm having a bit of trouble with the setting aspect of my story and organizing the plot line.

1)What are the pros and cons of using a fictional place as opposed to an existent place?

2)What sort of outline/guide would you recommend for a beginning writer? I was using the snowflake method, but I'm not sure I like it.

So far I've been writing out certain scenes that I have stuck in my head, but I'm running into the issue of how to order them to get the strongest storyline. Am I doing this wrong?

Pros to creating a fictional place:
1) You can make up your own rules, language, etc.
2) No research required

Cons to creating a fictional place:
1) You have to remember rules, language, etc.


Outline? I, personally, have never bothered with outlines. I just sit down and tell the muse to get to work! If you're an outline-user, though, get a notebook and write down stuff you KNOW-names, places, any scenes that stick in your mind. Just do what feels right to you-there's no wrong way to write. Just practice, practice, practice. Good luck!

1)What are the pros and cons of using a fictional place as opposed to an existent place?

There's a similar thread here, with some good points raised, though I'm unsure if you're talking about fictional real-life places, or alternative worlds you might find in fantasy etc.
http://www.writingforums.com/writing-discussion/118187-two-questions-about-writing-methods-style.html


Regarding your second question, there are those who will write without any outline, and others who swear by it. Personally, I can't start a story without knowing it, but that isn't to say I can't deviate from that path whilst I'm writing it. I think the correct method is that which works best for you. There's nothing to stop you experimenting with different planning methods. I do think your level of planning will be determined by the length of the story.

Scott.

Originally Posted by Bilston Blue

There's a similar thread here, with some good points raised, though I'm unsure if you're talking about fictional real-life places, or alternative worlds you might find in fantasy etc.
http://www.writingforums.com/writing...ods-style.html

Thanks! I'm talking about fictional real-life places (New York City, etc). When I'm writing, I already have a setting in my mind, so now I'm wondering if I should just create that or do some research to find a real-life place that matches up with my 'head' setting.

I would like to point out that even when writing about a real place you can change the rules. For example the Young Wizards series by Dianna Duane(Spell check on her name, my book collection isn't here) she gives magick as the reason buildings talk and people can't see magick because they aren't magickally inclined. I don't know if I am explaining this right but do you get the idea?