Matt Betts tries to explain himself

Ok. Not really started on the renovations to the novel. But I am getting some writing done.

At our last writers group meeting one of our newer members asked about ideas. She wanted to know where story ideas come from for the rest of us, as she was having trouble getting started on a new project.

We all talked about what makes it happen for us. loquacious_lad and I both mentioned that occasionally we can start with a great title and write our way into it. Others talked about starting with a situation, or a specific character. All in all it boiled down to what it always does when we discuss writing: It comes from where it comes from, and each writer does what works for them.

That doesn't mean we can't use a push from time to time. We also mentioned writing exercises to keep things coming when we hit a dry spell. It was a good conversation.

Since then I've been having really good story ideas just pop out of nowhere. I have no idea what's triggering them, but I won't argue. I've even managed to jot them down before they escaped for a change!

Woo hoo!

I started working on one of them right away at lunch today. Didn't get far, but it was good to take a run at it!

Is there anything in particular that makes it happen for you, or does it just happen?

Ever look at a sign too quickly and completely misread it?

There's a house for sale sign on my way to the library where my writing group meets for the "Jane Jones Team" Realty Company. Twice now I've misread it as the "Jane Austin Realty Company". You think I'd of learned the first time, but no.

Of course after I realize my mistake, I think Man, that would be a good gimmick though!