Navigating the Gulf Between Drafts: A Writer's Journey
Every writer has experienced the euphoria of completing their first draft and the subsequent realization that it's not as polished as they'd like. This period between the first and second draft presents an opportunity to refine and elevate your work. Here, we explore the essential steps a writer takes during this critical phase, drawing from personal experiences to offer valuable insights.
The Celebration and Detachment
First and foremost, it's vital to recognize and celebrate your accomplishment. You've embarked on a challenging journey and arrived at a significant milestone. This is a time to reflect on the journey and the hard work that has brought the story to life. However, it's equally important to avoid the temptation of falling in love with your first draft, as many nuances or flaws might become evident.
Imagine the first draft as a rough sketch—precious, imperfect, and full of potential. Think of it as a foundation, a starting point for further evolution. It's a reminder to consult friends or critique partners, as an unbiased perspective can often reveal aspects that were overlooked while in the throes of creation.
The Research Dive: A Necessity for Depth
During this phase, research becomes your best friend. The depth of your writing can be significantly enhanced by meticulous exploration of the details required to bring your narrative to life. Just as an actor immerses themselves in the character's life, you must do the same for your story's setting, characters, and plot points.
For instance, when writing Peccadillo, the second novel, I delved into the specifics of sniping, luxury vehicles, and concealed weapons, which enriched the story. Similarly, doing research for Rogue, I explored the intricacies of sports wheelchairs and advanced watches, ensuring that the details were both accurate and engaging.
Documenting Future Refinements
While writing the first draft, it's practically impossible to know every detail that will be needed to complete the manuscript. Therefore, it's crucial to maintain a document or notebook where you jot down specific details that arise during the writing process. These notes can be invaluable for the second draft, helping you enrich and clarify elements that might have been too vague or insufficient before.
From Research to Action
The material gathered during this research phase can be directly integrated into the manuscript, adding layers of authenticity and complexity. It’s also a good time to test out scenes that require specific equipment or knowledge. For example, test riding a motorcycle or researching luxury car features can help you better describe those elements in your narrative.
Other Responsibilities: Writing and Beyond
Beyond the writing process, writers often juggle various commitments. Teaching conflict resolution and self-defense, engaging in martial arts training, or simply being a parent or caregiver can all impact your writing journey. These activities, while seemingly unrelated, can inspire and enrich your writing, bringing a unique flavor to your narrative.
Take the In Pocket project, a standalone noir, which required me to write the middle section post-receiving new information on heroin use. This experience added a layer of authenticity to the narrative, giving it a deeper resonance with readers.
Summary and Key Takeaways
The period between the first and second draft is a transformative phase that requires a blend of celebration, research, and creativity. It's a time to refine your work, infuse it with more detailed and accurate information, and ensure that every element serves the narrative.
By taking the time to conduct thorough research, documenting your needs, and balancing writing with other responsibilities, you can elevate your manuscript from a first draft to a polished, engaging story that resonates with readers.
Remember, the journey of writing is a marathon, not a sprint. Each draft brings you closer to the final product, and the second draft is the critical phase where the foundation of your story is refined and strengthened.