Writing a Novel is Like Solitaire

Writing a novel is like playing solitaire. There are many different paths to take. Lots of different directions you can go. And for a while, they all seem like they’re working—the cards are lining up, the plot is moving along. But suddenly, you’re stuck! In older versions of Windows computer solitaire, you’ve got one chance for an undo; one opportunity to erase the last mistake and try again. In VISTA and newer versions, you can undo as many times as you like! Rewriting is our undo for novels. There is always a chance to fix what isn’t working.

The way to win solitaire is to take the steps that lead you to success. Not just the steps that are easy and quick and produce instant results. You don’t have to take a move—even if it’s there. You don’t have to send your draft novel out to agents and editors just because it’s written. In solitaire, if you chose the moves that get the low cards up early, you ‘re more likely to succeed. And you must look ahead several moves to make sure the current move isn’t going to box you in. Thinking your novel through before you take off can save having to undo. Having a full plot outline would be great, but as long as you have a plan, a vision for the finished work, you can take steps in the right direction and save major structure revisions. Pausing with a finished product, stepping back and looking at it again later with fresh eyes will save you time and energy spent on sending out a manuscript that isn’t ready yet.

I think all this can be said about life too. I wish the right paths in life were easy to see. Wouldn’t it be great if we had a free undo! I’d like to go back and undo a few things I’ve done, after knowing the result. Time to start rewriting my life—and my novel!

Leslie Adkins