Sunday, April 09, 2006

26,872 Words and Counting

I'm wondering if I have that many words left in me, but time will tell. I've got a couple of paragraphs done on Chapter Twelve. Looks like there are roughly six more chapters to go, maybe seven. At an average of 2500 words each, that makes about 17,500 more, for a total of about 45,000 words. Is that enough I wonder? I've never written a novel. Is that even close to 200 pages? Does the length really matter? Should I just concentrate on getting the story down and stop worrying? Yes, I think that is what I should do. I'm sure in the end I will have added and subtracted plenty. Any of you writers out there have any suggestions or advice? Any words of knowledge or experience to add? I welcome your thoughts. At least I've started back. I know I can't not finish this.

6 comments:

Diane Viere said...

Cindy,

I don't have a clue regarding the number of words....I have heard that to write...you must'nt worry about editing, corrections, etc.--just let it flow.

Having never written a novel--I am simply impressed with your success to date! I can't wait! I can't wait! I can't wait! :)

What a journey you are on!

Diane

Rachel Starr Thomson said...

I agree, just let the story out. When you write a second draft you may find yourself able to expand the plot and so work it into a longer novel. 45,000 words is about 150 pages.
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Sonya said...

I sent you an e-mail about how to do word count : - )

Diane is right. Just let it flow.

Darlene Schacht said...

I find that 50,000 is 200 pages on average. That's 250 words/page. But don't let the count slow the flow. Keep going, and you'll get there I'm sure.

Catherine West said...

Hi Cindy,
Well, even if you are trying to target a particular market for your novel and word count is important, what is more important is the story you are teilling.
As all have already said, get it out first. Your first task is to have your story written from start to finish.
Then you go back and start editing.
And editing.
And rewriting...and editing...and rewriting...you get the picture?
If you ever hear a writer tell you they are 'finished' with their novel, they are lying.
I was emailing Darlene with changes to Just A Little Walk even after it was ready to go to print! I should not admit that probably - that's why it's best to have a critique partner or several perhaps, and an editor who can spot errors before you go to print.
Not that I have any bestsellers out there or anything, but I'm learning as I go.
Basically with your writiing you have to view it as a gift that you want to do your best with. God has given you a story to tell and you must learn to tell it to the best of your ability.
You can feel free to email me if you have any other questions etc...keep at it. It's hard work but very rewarding too.

C. H. Green said...

Thank you all for visiting my blog and leaving such great advice. You have helped to spur me on. God is still working in me to get rid of this thing called worry. I think these doubts about the book are just Satan trying to steal my joy from the whole process. The world feels right when I write. Every step I take in this direction I sense God's hand pulling me along. Ok, sometimes pushing. I want to finish this race. I want to accomplish something for the Lord with my life. I appreciate your prayers for my family during this trial. We are going to come out of it soon. I just know it!