Prewriting: Research
Hello there, Neophyte! Today, we’re diving into the art of research during the prewriting phase. We’ve all been there, haven’t we? The classic “I’ll start when I have all the research I need” mindset. Let’s not kid ourselves; we’ve all succumbed to this form of procrastination. It’s like a tempting whirlpool, and if we’re not careful, we might find ourselves endlessly circling in the preparation phase, waiting for that perfect moment when we’re “ready” to start writing.
So, Neophyte, let’s kick off this conversation about why research in the prewriting phase, it may appear complicated but it isn´t:
Step one: Figure out what you want to write. This crucial step will guide you toward the specific areas you need to research. And why does this matter, you ask? Well, Neophyte, what you need to research is directly proportional to your story’s requirements. Are you penning a grounded mystery novel or an intense war tale? In that case, nailing down the details—especially the essential Ws (who, what, when, where, and why, with how photobombing the picture by starting with H)—is imperative. If your narrative is set in a particular historical period, accuracy becomes paramount. Why, you wonder? For your readers, Neophyte, they always come first.
Let’s take a historical piece as an example. Enthusiasts of this genre are well-versed in the facts, history, and key personalities of the era. The most devoted ones might even know the minutiae of daily life during that time. For a casual reader, minor inaccuracies might slip by, but for those deeply engaged in the genre, these errors can shatter the immersive experience. To the uninitiated, it might seem trivial, but with each inaccuracy, frustration builds until it reaches a breaking point. At that moment, the book is dropped, and the hope is that it’s at least remembered in frustration. Otherwise, it risks fading into obscurity. So, Neophyte, the lesson is clear: research diligently, get those details right, and keep your readers captivated in the magic circle of your story.
Once you’ve determined the extent of your research, go a bit further—having a surplus can only benefit you, right? It ensures that every detail in your piece feels authentic, making your narrative more organic and your characters naturally compelling. Think of it as giving yourself room to breathe and allowing for creative deviations within reason. Why you ask? Now, here’s a fair question: Why go through all the trouble of getting everything right only to be told to break the mold? Well, within reason. In reality, not all of us fit neatly into predefined roles. While these molds serve as useful guides, understanding them empowers you to break them in profoundly human ways. People don’t always conform to norms and established dogmas, and your characters shouldn’t either.
Another key point is to set boundaries on your research, at least during the prewriting phase. Remember, Neophyte, this is the groundwork you’re laying before you actually start writing, and you can’t delay the writing indefinitely. If you’re delving into the realm of fantasy, be cautious not to overdo it. While fantasy is inherently unrealistic, it should still be within reason. Explore archetypes of fantasy races and scenarios to understand what’s out there, not just to avoid copyright issues but also to ensure your work stands out. However, resist the temptation to over-research, especially if it hampers your writing. This isn’t an exam, Neophyte; there are no set formulas, only proven patterns. You don’t need to memorize answers and regurgitate them onto the page. Instead, grasp how things work and learn to apply that understanding in your unique way. Whether it’s the intricacies of rapier mechanics or the variations of fantasy races like Dwarves, delve into the minutiae as long as it enriches rather than hinders your work.
And here we find a seamless transition into our next topic: the peril of research as a crutch. When it comes to research, all you really need is the internet, a means of organizing yourself, a dash of common sense, and a discerning eye for what’s genuinely useful. Sure, as you grow, you might consider reaching out to experts or specialists via email, or you can even do this while you’re still an unknown force in the writing world—there’s no one stopping you, Neophyte, except the “no” you’ve convinced yourself of. But beware, planting yourself too firmly in the “I’m studying for my book” phase is a mistake.
Once again, the stunted tyrant that is fear might rear its head, attempting to drag you back. We’ve discussed this, Neophyte. Feeding that fear will only fulfill the prophecies it’s concocted to serve itself. Remember, you are you, and fear is another entity entirely. Never let it triumph.
To sum it up, research in the prewriting phase is about determining what you need to kickstart your writing journey. Stick to the boundaries you’ve set, research according to your story and chosen genre, because that’s what your readers will be looking for. Breaking their trust is a cardinal sin for all authors. All you need is the internet, an organizational method, common sense, and a discerning criteria. Feel free to contact experts, but don’t overdo it, and most importantly, don’t let research become a crutch for your fears.
I hope you’ve got everything you need. Until next time
