the snowflake project

I’m writing a fantasy novel in public, that is online, not on a street-corner, using The Snowflake Method. “Why?” you ask? The short answer is because I think hope KNOW it will work. That begs to be explained, so here comes the long answer.

I decided in grade 3 that I was going to become a writer. Incidentally, this was around the same time I first came into contact with a little-known work of fantasy-fiction called The Hobbit. I was instantly ensorcelled by the unique combination of whimsical antics and life or death adventure associated with the genre in its purest form. I further decided at that point that I was going to become a fantasy novelist.

I’m happy to report that after a false start or two in the publishing and banking industries, I am now earning my living as a copywriter (and no, it isn’t glamorous – though I imagine few jobs are for those who do them). So I’ve realized part of the dream I’ve carried for over 20 years, but not all of it. I’ve written short stories and poetry, mostly with a bent toward fantasy, I’ve even published a collection of them (feel free to buy it or download it for free).  But I’ve never managed to write a whole novel.

Every computer I’ve ever owned has a folder containing dozens of half-baked first chapters. And that was the problem – I could never get past the first chapter. I believe my inability to finish, or even properly start, a novel is due to the fact that I’ve never been working with a real plan. I’ve never properly outlined. That’s because outlining is boring. Enter Randy Ingermanson’s Snowflake Method. I encourage you to visit his site and read all about it.

Using The Snowflake Method will lend a lot of focus to the outlining process, and writing in public, for an audience who is enjoying watching a brand new fantasy novel take shape for free, will keep me motivated.

So, check out the ever-growing story-bible, and read my commentary in the blog. It’s sure to be an interesting ride for all of us!