Today we're lucky enough to be joined by co-author of the recently released fantasy novel Woven and ruler of The Cosmic Laire, David Powers King! I asked David to tell us about something that intimidates the heck out of me: co-writing. How do two writers create a single story?
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| Nice lookin' fella, huh? |
Ever since my debut novel with
Michael Jensen, WOVEN, came out in January this year, one of the most
frequently asked questions we've received is: what is it like to be
collaborative authors? What is your process like? All fair questions. There is
a stigma that writing collaboratively is difficult or impossible if the authors
are unable to effectively work together. Breaking this mold by finding a working
relationship with Michael has been a pleasant experience, but the difference
does make for some adjustment compared to writing on your own.
First of all, you're not writing a
story by yourself. There is another party involved. Another worldview. One
might like this idea while the other really doesn't. So here's a good rule to
remember: these impasses are perfectly fine and should be expected. A better
rule to remember is that you can't let disagreements hang up your story. The
show must go on. Talk it out until you find a solution, or something better
than you both first thought.
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| Next on my reading list. Very excited. |
Secondly, you have another author to
rely on. In the same vain, working on a story together comes with its own
support system. You'll have a critique partner, an alpha reader, beta reader,
and a general supporter through the whole process, which has come in handy when
a problem arises. An extra set of eyes can spot problems early on, making revisions
a breeze later.
Lastly (but not at all final), the
experiences you can gain are invaluable. If drafting a successful manuscript
has taught me anything, it's how to work with others and how to "get over
myself." It has made working with professionals in New York an easier
transition compared to how I may have conducted myself as a lone author.
Because to succeed as a published author, you have to work, and work
effectively, with others. Writing collaboratively can help develop this skill.
If anything else, communicate.
Always have each other's back and stay on the same page. Who knows what kind of
worlds and magic you can create with two heads instead of one.
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Was that great or what!?! Makes me want to try a collaboration. Seems like it could be very rewarding.
Please check back next week for a technique I use to get over creative rough patches.
Also, if you want to get involved with Writing Tip Tuesdays, please shoot me an email at adamgaylordwrites gmail com.
We have great tips from a bunch more great writers coming up so stay tuned!
