don't read this maybe

i really have no idea how one goes about writing a novel. so thats an interesting problem. i realize, however, that i do believe i bought a book about writing them a while ago. i should look for that.

it seems to me, however, that the best way to begin is with some idea of a goal. what are you hoping to do with the novel you're writing. that way, if you you know its the end. that's obviously kind of flawed, but it provides a good direction. i don't know if a wise man said this, or anyone for that matter, but i think its worth noting that heading in the wrong direction is completely better than standing still and wondering what the right direction is.

that said, there are a lot more steps along the way to writing a novel than that. there's the first drafting. the heavy first edit. and many many many subsequent edits. the final product should be much shorter than the first draft. of that i have no doubt. the final should be nuanced, though the first draft may not be. all of that said, style is key. you can't easily borrow style however. i learned that one a long time ago. if you try to borrow style you usually end up borrowing a lot more than you ever meant to in the first place.

with all of that said, i think i need to start coming up with a direction. i really don't know what that'll be though. more is surely to follow, of that you needn't be concerned.