The Mid Point Of Your Novel
Yesterday my critique group worked on the mid points of our novels. The big question is, what is a mid point exacatly? Well, since you asked... Think of it as the point in your story where your protagonist (main character) becomes completely committed to the course of action that utlimately leads to the climax of the book. While it can be a low point as far as action is concerned, its a very important point as far as the arc of your protagonist is concerned. Put simpler, the mid point is like the point of no return.
So knowing all this, mine must have been perfect, right? Wrong! I'm a firm believer there is always room for improvement and its a good thing because there was room to spare on every page. The main thing I learned today is that even when you think a chapter is pretty solid a critique partner will catch things you didn't even realize were wrong. With three critique partners like I'm lucky enough to have this week, you'll catch even more.
There were some pretty big things missing from my mid point that I didn't even realize I forgot to put in. I know my story inside and out so much that sometimes I forget what's in my head and what's on the screen. My critique group pointed out the areas that were lacking and now I'll be able to solidify the mid point and make the manuscript that much better. If you don't have a critique group try reading out loud. Just doing that made several problems jump out at me! Best of luck.
So knowing all this, mine must have been perfect, right? Wrong! I'm a firm believer there is always room for improvement and its a good thing because there was room to spare on every page. The main thing I learned today is that even when you think a chapter is pretty solid a critique partner will catch things you didn't even realize were wrong. With three critique partners like I'm lucky enough to have this week, you'll catch even more.
There were some pretty big things missing from my mid point that I didn't even realize I forgot to put in. I know my story inside and out so much that sometimes I forget what's in my head and what's on the screen. My critique group pointed out the areas that were lacking and now I'll be able to solidify the mid point and make the manuscript that much better. If you don't have a critique group try reading out loud. Just doing that made several problems jump out at me! Best of luck.
It is amazing how close we become to our own work, that we can miss so much. I cannot tell you how much I appreciate your input! You're incredible! Looking forward to tomorrow's climax...the chapter.
ReplyDeleteLOL! Karlene, thanks for keeping me laughing! I appritiate your input so much as well. My book will be better thanks to you and our other critique partners!
ReplyDeleteIt's so true! It's so easy to know your character's intentions and SO helpful when someone else can point out what's NOT being said. Going through this now....always an eye-opener. Good luck and have fun!!
ReplyDeleteI love reading my story out loud. Once you get over the awkwardness of speaking your story, it is so useful to do. Every awkward phrase and unnecessary adjective completely stands out!
ReplyDeleteAn extra pair of eyes or two really helps to point out the things that we think are completely obvious.
ReplyDeleteYou're so right Kiera, I was amazed at what I left out. I never would have caught it if someone else hadn't pointed it out to me. I'm liking this eyes wide open thing ;)
ReplyDeleteYou know Portia, I never was a read aloud kind of author but now I really see the benefit of it and I love doing it.
That's it exactly Alissa, those extra eyes make all the difference in the world. Before this I was never a big fan of critique groups. Now I don't know how I lived without one!