One of the things we're told to do when developing stories is to consider the "what ifs?" We look at an incident, behavior or personality of a character and think about changes that can move a story forward, add interest and an opportunity for character growth. Many times we don't want our characters to change, especially if that changed is forced upon us by an editor or critique from a writer we respect, and even when we know the change will improve our story, sometimes it's just hard to cast aside our original concept and respond to the "what ifs?"
The "what ifs," I'd like you to consider has nothing to do with the development of story but more about life itself. If we've learned anything from the pandemic we're all living through, it's that life is precious. With everything shut down, we've been given the gift of time to reflect and share with our spouses, children, family and friends in ways we've never done before. And all though we don't want to think about it, what happens if our family is hit with the virus and loses a loved one? And, what if that loved one is you?
What if it is you? Have you left clear instructions as to how to access your computer files, your works-in-progress, contact information for the important people in your career; agents, editors, publicist, lawyer, publishers? If published, does your spouse or loved one know which publishers to contact regarding royalties and for which books? Royalties don't stop when you're gone.
I could go on and on with more "what if" questions but I think the idea is clear. We all need to have a plan. We all need to prepare for the "what ifs!"
Have you ever considered this? Do you have a plan? I'd like to know.
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Sandra Warren is the author of books in multiple genres. Contact via her website listed below.
Obsessed By A Promise: A Childhood Promise! A Lost Brother! The Orphan Train! A life On Hold!
Have you ever considered this? Do you have a plan? I'd like to know.
***************
Sandra Warren is the author of books in multiple genres. Contact via her website listed below.
Obsessed By A Promise: A Childhood Promise! A Lost Brother! The Orphan Train! A life On Hold!
She Started It All - middle grade historical fiction of bomber story
We Bought a WWII Bomber: The Untold Story of a Michigan High School, a B-17 Bomber & The
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