I almost titled this post “So You Think You Can Write” with the word “Canada” tacked on to the end. Witty, no? Sort of a nod to pop culture with a side of “ooooh burn”, right? Because of our awkward attempt to join the cool kids and just create Canadian versions of US television shows, right? Think Canadian Idol! Are You Smarter Than a Canadian 5th Grader! So You Think You Can Dance Canada!
Anyway, I thought it was funny. But let’s move on, shall we? Yes, on and away from the embarrassment that is our inability to forge ahead with original television ideas. *ahem*
Okay, so it’s November 2nd and I am stress balling about the fact that I may (or may not!) be able to write 30 blog posts in 30 days. But did you know that there are actual people writing actual NOVELS this month? Seriously, and you can read all about it here.
NOVELS, people. Bona fide books with plots and character development, and thousands of words. So I probably should STFU about my damn blog and how hard it is to write a post every day, amirite?
Seriously though, writing a novel in a month is a pretty ballsy and I can’t even comprehend how that would even be possible. It sometimes takes me longer than 30 days to READ a novel, never mind craft one out of thin air.
So because this whole concept fascinates me, I read through the website, had a look at the rules (not that there are loads) and basically just checked it all out. And I have to say, I got a little excited. 50,000 words in one month? A full-on novel in 30 days? It’s a challenge for sure, but what a challenge! And, as they say on the site: “Win or lose, you rock for even trying.” I kind of love that.
I checked out the regional listings and saw that the Hamilton area has 1026 members. Over 1000 people have attempted this in the past or are attempting it currently. Amazing. And then I looked at the introductions forum and saw a lot of “I have no idea what I’m doing but I’m excited to be here!” and a few “I’ve never made it to 50,000 but there’s always a first time” and again, EXCITED.
So obviously (OBVIOUSLY) I am not registered for this year. Instead I am going to slog along and write drivel for you lovely readers. But, like the Tiger-Cats, wait until next year? Maybe? The whole idea makes me feel a little giddy, I’m not going to lie. But in a year, would I be confident enough to even attempt to write a novel in 30 days? Maybe I should start small(er). Is there a National Short Story Writing Month?
Or, maybe I should just focus on doing the blog thang and getting the hang of writing daily. It’s practice, right? It’s exercise! For my writing brain!
I will keep you all posted on my plans as the year progresses. And count on ALL OF YOU to talk me out of it when the time comes, ok? Thanks.
The Urban Info Girl 