By K.A. Neely
I exercise my gray cells by writing cozy mysteries. Ever since I picked up my first Nancy Drew book I have loved reading and watching mysteries. Having said that, writing one is completely different. I know every fictional tale requires careful consideration to detail. The specifics of the storyline must flow and have continuity, but a mystery is a whole different game. I was naive enough to believe I needed only minimal memo taking from chapter to chapter to make it cohesive. Heck, I even thought, surely I can remember what time the actual crime took place — insert embarrassed emoji. Apparently, for my brain, this was a difficult task. I have been accumulating many senior moments like that recently. Due to this anomaly, at least that’s what I’m calling it for now, my most recent mystery novel comprised a whole notebook worth of memos and stickies and tabs. Everything from the color skirt the protagonist wore in the first chapter to how the weather felt on that particular day. I documented everything. This process can be fun and excruciating all at the same time. And just to be clear, my main story is done on the computer, but all of my ideas, the brainstorming, is done with paper and pen the old fashioned way.
The initial note taking, for me, is the best part of the writing process. I can let ideas flow without worrying too much about self critiquing and editing issues. I can even make myself laugh, cringe or smile with delight as images pop into my mind when characters and situations are being formulated. I really have no idea how Agatha Christie managed her notes, especially with stories like The Orient Express. If you’ve never read or seen it, you must. When it ends you realize the story was simplicity wrapped in perplexity. It’s quite the conundrum, and impressive to boot.
Whatever your method of note taking, do it with gusto. I’ve read writing, in whatever fashion, is good for our overall emotional and physical well being. I concur. Even though I am having more “senior moments” now then ten years ago, I think my writing has helped me stay more focused and alert. Also, when doing research I’m always learning new things. In fact I was forced to use my math skills, yikes, and brush up on the Kennedy era for my most recent novel.
Next time you sit down to start a short story or novel afresh, don’t forget your notebook or binder. Keep it close. When an idea pops into your head, write it down. It may not grow into anything, but it may just germinate a thought that will develop into the next best seller. In any event, if it doesn’t, at least you can be assured you are exercising your little gray cells which is always a good thing. Write on dear friends, write on.
Exercise your gray cells as well as your body. Thoughts by K.A. Neely #ACFWBlogs #amwriting https://www.acfw.com/blog Click To Tweet
I was born in Pennsylvania and graduated with a BS in English. I now call North Carolina home where I live with my husband and a home filled with lots of furry friends. I write because I feel compelled to put words on paper, but it’s meaningless unless I can share them with others. Visit me on my blog and website.
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