Plot Problems, Technical Difficulties & The Next Meeting

Chapter 1: Plot Problems

Over at her wonderful blog, "Pub Rants", literary agent Kristin Nelson illuminated a method for detecting manuscript problems, which anyone can try with the help of a friend. Here is what she said:


Just recently I did a workshop where I had the participants partner with another person in the class and exchange the first 30 pages of their manuscripts. The assignment I gave them was to read the 30 pages all the way through once. After that was completed, to go back and start rereading. On the second read, I asked them to go page by page and outline the plot points in a neat list list by chapter.  I stressed that they were not summarizing the chapter. Simply listing the action found in it.  Then I had them email me the outlines before I started reading.

Those were the instructions and everyone in the class tackled the exercise just fine so I’m confident all of you can do the same.

I’d take a quick glance at the by-chapter outline and as an agent, I’d know what was wrong with the manuscript before I even hit the first page and started reading. I would then read the document to confirm what I already knew. One hundred percent of the time I was right.  I’d say 90% of what we see on submission has these issues so it’s definitely worth taking forty minutes to do this exercise with a writing partner that you trust.

Because the two main culprits that will nix you getting a full manuscript request are these:

1) The work is missing a plot catalyst to really start the story (so there is a lot going on action-wise but no actual story unfolding).

2) There is nothing at stake for the main character.
Happy revising!

Chapter 2: Technical Difficulties

In case you missed it, we are trying to rebuild our member email list:

We need your help re-creating the SWG group email list. Please take the time to send Sally or myself (Sasha) an email! Don't forget to tell us who you are, too. This will help us rebuild our contact list and keep you in the know.

Chapter 3: The Next Meeting

The next meeting of the Savannah Writers Group will take place on Tuesday, 26 MARCH @ 7 PM at the Atlanta Bread Company!

Should we make it a poetry night? Bring your poems to share with the group! Don't forget to bring feedback forms and enough copies if you want input from others. Definitely brainstorm ideas for future meetings. Would you like to lead a discussion at a future gathering? Step up to the challenge! Also, if you dared to attempt my science fiction flavored writing prompts, please bring in the results to share!

THE END