Plotter, Pantser or Both
August 12, 2024
It’s often claimed that writers are either plotters or pantsers. I would venture to say I’m both.
I’m compelled to start each manuscript as a plotter. After all, how can one tell a story without knowing how to begin and where it might possibly end?
I begin by creating an outline chart with twenty or more chapters, assigning each chapter a line in the plot. Such a chart restored life to my recent novel, Shushan Portal, which sat half-written for almost five years. I merely consulted my outline chart and carried on – in a rather bumpy manner.
Meanwhile, a second plot outline was gathering dust in my computer files for the follow-up story, my work in progress.
Now here is where my dusty second outline gathered wings much as a pantser’s storyline does. Totally new ideas invaded my mind – new venues, expanded character activity, fresh plot twists.
As quickly as possible, I inserted these revelations into my outline chart. At this point, the story was becoming almost unrecognizable from the original version.
Rather than being distracting, the changes in script were invigorating. My mind was now aflame, and I was ready for some serious writing.
These days, in order to prevent slipping back into writing avoidance, I settle down before my computer screen two or three days each week. Cued by my outline chart, I need not fear writer’s block.
Instead, I stir the embers with a few tentative lines until my imagination bursts into flame. The characters rush to take their places on stage and the next act begins.
I’d love to hear other author’s thoughts on this topic.