What do you do when you have a really good idea, one that has been constantly jumping to the forefront of your mind whenever you sit down to write, but you have already written something similar?
This is what I am going through right now. The first book I wrote for NaNoWriMo was a post apocalyptic/population reducing novel with supernatural elements - vampires, fae, were-critters. When I wrote it, the story took on a life of its own. I had something else in mind, but the characters decided to do their own thing. However, the original idea I had is roaring at me. The finished book is the first in a series, because I have a ton of characters and have written half of the second book.
So the question is this: Do I write the original idea? Would it be weird if I wrote another post apocalyptic series that has similar elements to the one I have already done, or should I forget it? The original idea was darker than what I eventually wrote, and honestly, I think I took the easy road for that book since it was my first foray into NaNoWriMo. But that story is good. It's finished and there are so many possibilities for future books.
I am going to give my original idea a whirl. I am going to attempt to do the July session of Camp NaNo and flush out the idea and not let the characters run rampant as they usually do. I want to see where this idea takes me. I believe that this will be a good exercise for me; to write something close to what I have done already, but make it different.
So, what would you do? Would you scrap the original idea, or the one that took its place? Would you do what I am going to attempt and see where that idea could have taken you?
It's a conundrum. Really one that only the author can decide.
I would write it! It doesn't matter that you've already written something similar. If you have the urge, then write it. If it changes other things then so be it! Always go for the bigger, better story if you can. Not saying that what you've written isn't good - but if you have an idea that improves it, then do it! ^_^ That's my vote. But yes, this kind of conundrum can only really be decided by the author. *hugs*
ReplyDeleteIn my case I would actually have to have finished something... Oh wait, I've finished the 1st drafts of two. I think it might depend on my mood really. My mood can really effect how I approach something and when it's something as important as writing, that can mean the difference in whether or not my characters survive the day to if I write at all.
ReplyDeleteWhen I write stuff I have a hard time not letting the characters take over. I feel like I'm interfering with their 'free will' xD
ReplyDeleteEvery writer is different, but in my experience I just write and see where it goes. Sure the idea may not be original but as long as I enjoy what I'm writing it's worth it. So I say just have fun and write whatever comes to you. of course if the challenge is fun, go for that as well. I just hope you enjoy whatever you write. :)
ReplyDelete