What is this 'Wattpad'?

WOW.

You guys...it has been so long!! As you can tell, I'm pretty terrible at keeping up with the ol' blog. I can actually feel my blogging skills dwindling! Haha :)

Sorry about that.

But listen, I discovered something this summer. Something all you fellow writers will appreciate. I know it's been out for quite a few years now, but I just discovered Wattpad! For those of you who aren't familiar, it's a free writing platform where anyone can write and upload fanfiction or any kind of fiction they wish! It's a great way to be creative and receive comments from readers.

If you're an aspiring author or just want a creative outlet, I highly recommend Wattpad. Check it out!

And while you're at it, you can check out my work in progress, Searching for Goodbye. Wattpad account: samcampbell50

Happy writing!



Let the edits continue...

Completing a first draft does NOT mean a book is finished. Far from it. Sure, getting the initial story down is a giant step, but in a way, that's just the beginning. As someone once said, "Writing is rewriting."

That is so true.

After combing through your manuscript again, you begin to notice all of the flaws, things you once thought were pieces of great literature. But after a second look, you realize it wasn't as perfect as you once thought. Editing gives you a chance to deepen your beloved characters, tighten sentences, and make that story of yours the best it can be.

And I think that's what every writer wants - to put out their best work. That's what editing does. It takes a good story ... and makes it a GREAT one. 

First Draft = FINISHED!

After two years of writing, I can finally say the first draft of my manuscript is complete! Wow. There's a great sense of accomplishment in finishing, but the work is not done! Now on to editing, rewriting, and more editing....

Wish me luck.

My manuscript and a good, cold frap... There's nothing better!

 



Original Artwork by Sam Campbell

To the Beach...or to the Writing Desk?

This week is Spring Break.  For many college students, that means a group trip to the beach and lots and lots of sunshine.  For me?  Well...I'm staying right here.  As a writer, I'm perfectly content to schlep on over to the library - my notebook and pen in hand - and get lost in my manuscript for a few hours.  Oh, and don't forget the frappuccino!  A cup of good frozen coffee and a manuscript.  That's about all I need!

I'm excited to have this time off of school.  Time to dedicate to my book.  It's an incredible feeling to be able to focus solely on your writing and not have to worry about school work!

Ugh.  School.  Classes start back on Monday...  Well, I better get back to writing while I still can!

Reaching the Climax

Well, I've reached that part of my story.  The climax.  The tension has never been tighter, and the fate of my protagonist is hanging in the balance.  I love writing a climax.  I love the action, the heart, the dialogue.  Everything has led up to this point. 

At times I'm almost feverish to get all my thoughts down on the page.  I can't write fast enough, and it seems as if my brain is going to explode with all the ideas I have.  As a writer, I thrive off of this.  This amazing adrenaline rush.

Well, I have to go now.  Time to get back to my story.... 

Christmas Break = Writing Time!

 

After a crazy and hectic semester, after a weekend full of studying my brains out, it's finally time to write.  The craziness has died down.  Now, all I want is chilly weather, a frappucino, my notebook, and a pen.  I'm hoping to get A LOT of writing done these next few weeks.  I'm hoping to make a HUGE dent in that novel.  The sooner it's done, the sooner I can look for that agent....

 

And from there, well, that's all in God's hands.