How to Get Story Ideas for Your Novel
If you dream of crafting a literary masterpiece like Lessons in Chemistry or The Hunger Games, you know that a captivating and original story idea is the key. But what if you’re having a hard time coming up with an idea for your book? Here are five creative techniques to unearth those elusive story concepts.
Key Takeaways:
Avoid forcing your story into a genre or specific structure prematurely.
Writers are born observers. Carry a notepad or use a notes app to capture snippets of conversations and everyday situations that could spark extraordinary stories.
Engage with your characters and events by asking "what if" questions
Observation and Real Life:
Writers are born observers. Carry a notepad or use a notes app to capture snippets of conversations and everyday situations that could spark extraordinary stories. Consider how Lauren Weisberger's The Devil Wears Prada drew inspiration from the real-world fashion industry. Embrace the influence of real-life events, just as Stephen King did with Misery, inspired by a fan encounter.
Asking "What If" Questions:
Engage with your characters and events by asking "what if" questions. Explore scenarios like a new character in town, a troubled background, or a world-shifting interaction. Reflect on Philip K. Dick's The Man in the High Castle and its genesis in the question, "What if the Axis powers had won World War II?" Take inspiration from the movie Inception and encourage the exploration of "what if" scenarios, similar to Margaret Atwood's The Handmaid's Tale.
Learn about Different Genres:
Expand your knowledge of fiction genres. Dive into romance, sci-fi, and other genres to understand their specific events and structures. Challenge yourself to think beyond traditional boundaries, citing the success of fusion genres like steampunk. Don't feel constrained by genre definitions initially; let your story evolve naturally.
Writing Prompts and Exercises:
Utilize writing prompts to develop your ideas and characters. For instance, consider the prompt: What unexpected event turns your main character’s world upside down, and what is the ultimate transformation they must undergo to achieve their desires?
Try Freewriting:
Discover the magic of freewriting. Set aside dedicated time for uninhibited exploration of your ideas on paper. Embrace the freedom it provides, allowing "what if" questions to surface naturally. Learn from successful authors who incorporate freewriting into their routines.
I encourage you to let your ideas blossom organically. Avoid forcing your story into a genre or specific structure prematurely. Remember, sometimes you need to throw a lot at the wall to see what sticks. Share your inspired ideas in the comments, and don't forget to like and subscribe for more writing tips. Happy writing!
