How to Write a First Draft Quickly

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Update: Well, shoot!

May have been some miscommunication between Janice and me…and I’ve been scatty enough lately to suspect it could be on my side!

When the post goes live, I’ll connect us to it.

In the meantime…I went to see How to Train a Dragon with the kids this afternoon. I thought it was really good–for adults, too.

And, being me, I couldn’t help but parse it into successful components. :)

I noticed a great protagonist who doesn’t fit in and feels he has to prove himself to his village–which he does, in an unusual way.

I noticed an underlying theme–that maybe we just misunderstand cultures that are different from ours. It lent a little depth to the story.

I noticed several plot twists and characters behaving in surprising ways that really lent some punch to the film.

There was an interesting setting that could be used in different ways–to look ominous, to look peaceful, to make it possible to hide a dragon.

And…if you get the chance, watch it in 3-D. :)

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Today, I’m over at YA author Janice Hardy’s blog, The Other Side of the Story. I’m posting on “Working Quickly Through a First Draft.”

Hope you’ll pop over and visit. :)

Elizabeth Spann Craig

View posts by Elizabeth Spann Craig
Elizabeth writes the Memphis Barbeque series (as Riley Adams) and the Southern Quilting mysteries for Penguin and writes the Myrtle Clover series for Midnight Ink and independently. She also has a blog, which was named by Writer’s Digest as one of the 101 Best Websites for Writers. There she posts on the writing craft, finding inspiration in everyday life, and fitting writing into a busy schedule.

11 Comments

  1. Jemi FraserMay 15, 2010

    On my way … :)

  2. Journaling WomanMay 15, 2010

    Thanks, Alex, I thought it was me.

  3. Helen GingerMay 15, 2010

    You are such a busy writer and blogger! I am in awe.

    Helen
    Straight From Hel

  4. Karen Amanda HooperMay 15, 2010

    How can you be in two places at once? Are you a secret super hero? ;)

    On my way too.

  5. Alex J. CavanaughMay 15, 2010

    It’s not up yet, but I’ll check back later.

  6. Cold As HeavenMay 15, 2010

    That’s great, Elizabeth. Just the kind of post I needed right now … will read it a soon as you get it published on the other site >:)

    Cold As Heaven

  7. Jan MorrisonMay 15, 2010

    yep, not there yet but I’ll be there. I’d like to write one called ‘how to write a first draft really really slowly”.

  8. Journaling WomanMay 15, 2010

    Elizabeth, I have really wanted to see the Dragon movie. I’m such a child.

    Can’t wait for the First Draft Quickly post.

    T

  9. Jaleh DMay 15, 2010

    I loved that movie! My hubby and I chose it for our son’s first movie-in-the-theater. He did great and told us we should buy the movie when it comes out on DVD.

  10. Elizabeth Spann Craig/Riley AdamsMay 16, 2010

    Thanks y’all! And it really was a great movie. Definitely recommended. :)

  11. HeatherMay 17, 2010

    I actually can’t wait to see that movie! Now you have me even more excited about it. I’m off to click on your link…

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