Self Discipline

My husband and I were watching 24 last night, and it’s become one of those shows where the fresh twists are now becoming stale. People get killed all the time, in fact, more often than they live. Then, the people who are too stupid to live end up getting away. Go figure. It made me think of plot twists in romance novels. Editors are always saying they want fresh new twists on old themes. But even when I get a great idea for a twist, sometimes the book starts shifting back to the familiar patterns and I wonder if it’s lost its freshness. Maybe we should have plot expiration dates…Best if used by April 30th.

My new book has hit the sagging middle with a resounding thump. This is good and bad. It’s good because I’m still making forward progress, but it’s bad because I’m starting to become more aware of my shortcomings as an author. I tend to layer as I go, writing rough copy, then going back and smoothing it, then making sure I show emotion in the scene. Last night I had a sudden realization that one of my subplot characters had no depth. If I flesh him out, that will help make the scene sparkle. I like moments like these, when you recognize your own flaws and know ways to help fix the problems.

Now, I just need the self-discipline to plant my butt in the chair and crank out more pages!

And, continuing with our Celtic theme this week–
The historical trivia of the day:
Ancient Celtic warriors did not wear clothing when going into battle. In 255 BC, the Celtic military elite were described as “finely built men.” Women, too, were feared in battle.
Let your imagination do the rest…