The Value of Prewriting

When you hear the term prewritng, what comes to mind? Brainstorming? Research? Scattered notes on your desk? I'm sure we'd agree on the definition: the early stage of writing where idea formulation begins and blossoms. 

Recently while vacuuming and mentally sorting out an article idea, I recalled something a writing instructor told me. Her husband saw her sitting on the couch and asked if she was taking a break. She told him she was working - writing an article in her head. Her point for me was that a writer's life has numerous productive stages, whether done with pen and paper, on the computer screen, or in our heads.

This encouraged and helped me see the value of the prewriting and brainstorming stages. It's where our ideas are birthed and become a reality on the road to our destination: communicating with readers. 

Elizabeth King Humphrey had this to say about Creative Brainstorming on the Women on Writing blog:


"When teaching writing, I’ve often found that many students don’t seem to throw enough focus on each of the different steps involved in writing: pre-writing, writing, and revising. Creativity can play a part in all three stages. 

Certainly, if supported, the pre-writing stage can help a writer gain access to a variety of ideas that might not have appeared without taking the time. What happens when you approach your writing with a variety of questions or just space and time to grow your ideas? Often you get surprising answers that expand your choices even more. You’ve moved beyond the tip of the iceberg because your few ideas help to generate more ideas; your creative right side is engaged. A brainstorming session is born."


I have to agree. Writers are wired for thinking, which translates into writing. In the right balance, this is a good thing. It doesn't have to overwhelm. 

Prewriting keeps the mind active, offering material and insight for current and future projects. It sustains "continued education", helping us stretch our minds and strengthen the skills we need to keep moving forward.

In Other News 
 
Ann Gabhart visits us next week to discuss and give away a copy of her latest book, Murder Comes by Mail. Hope you can join us!

Congratulations to Susan P., winner of Carry Me Home by Dorothy Adamek in last week's interview and  giveaway! 


What kind of prewriting do you do? What are you writing this week? 

Happy writing,
Karen

Prewriting Thoughts and Happy Awards

 

What are your your thoughts about prewriting? How much mental or actual editing do you do before or as you write? I found Becky's puzzle-like thoughts over at Inside Out an interesting commentary along these lines. Thought maybe you might too. And btw, just in case you wanted to know, Becky is my daughter:)

I have been the recipient of several awards in the past few months, and have been terribly lax about mentioning them here. My apologies to the lovely blogger friends who bestowed these gifts upon me! I do appreciate them, and have no excuses to offer other than a busy schedule and distant family illnesses which has kept me on the phone more often than not.

The Happiness 101 Award was given to me by Raymonde, of  Everyday I Walk With You. You made me smile, Raymonde! Just like I do every time I visit your blog. You are a sweet friend, and perhaps some day this side of heaven we will meet and you can give me a tour of your stomping grounds. Or perhaps I can give you a tour across the pond here in the United States.

The Pursuing Your Dream Award was given to me by Maria at Life's Lessons. Writing does allow me to pursue my dream, which also happens to be writing! Thank you, Maria, for your thoughtfulness. Your blog offers wonderful insight on the lessons we can learn from everyday living.

One more award to mention - I know, there's a great risk of getting a big head here. You will all just have to keep me humble. The Prolific Blogger Award was given to me by Katt of Katt's Komments. Thank you, Katt, for thinking of me! It was a sweet and unexpected surprise. You are a treasured blogging friend.

Now comes the fun part. I hereby offer these wonderful awards to all my followers. Without you, my blog would be boring and friendless, which would be pretty sad, I think.Thanks for your friendship and support.

Much love and blessings to you all,

Karen :)