I want to continue writing the book I was working on but I can't do it

10-23-2009, 03:37 PM

anymore, do you have any advice? I was working on a book last spring and I was enjoying it a lot, I wrote 4 chapters and notes for the rest of the book, then when it was time to write chapter 5 I freaked out because I thought it was too difficult and I stopped writing. Now I want to start again but it's not easy for me to pick up from where I left, what should I do? Should I try to rewrite the whole story or should I stick to the plan I had?
it's not that I don't like the old plan anymore, i just find some scenes very boring and I don't really feel like writing them. I like the place where those scenes were leading though

**Mark** · 10-23-2009, 03:37 PM

I would suggest reading all of your previous chapters and notes to help refresh memory and to get you back in the mindset you were in when you were writing. Also try closing your eyes and thinking about the story as much as possible while trying to be in the same general area where you first started writing, its a technique that helps to help reawaken your mindset.

It works for me whenever I take a break from writing and need to get back into the swing of things.

**justannae** · 10-23-2009, 03:37 PM

What's the rush? Put your manuscript some place safe and add notes or ideas as they come to mind. Pushing yourself is only going to make the completion difficult.

**emma b** · 10-23-2009, 03:38 PM

I would just see if you could read through you notes and try to pick up on any of those creative juices you had last spring. If not, And you really think for can't go on with this book, then yes, I would start over. But if I were you I would really try to continue with what you have.

10-23-2009, 03:38 PM

Stick to the plan you had, but be really easy on yourself. Figure out what it would feel really great to write about, within the structure you've developed. Tell yourself, "I'm just going to write for twenty minutes today," then just start writing, stream of consciousness. If it feels awful, stop, but don't beat up on yourself. Most books are re-written at least several times by the author. You have to start somewhere. Relax, take a deep breath, or better yet, take a walk alone to get your blood and thoughts moving, and have fun!!!

**Rilee** · 10-23-2009, 03:39 PM

I am writing a book too called "Alleyway Spies", and sometimes it's very hard to start a chapter of the preface.
Personally, I would still continue with your book. Maybe even post it on Quizilla.com. Many people can rate it and see it. Reread your chapters, and maybe edit a bit. I wouldn't restart it after all the hard work over the summer.
I wouldn't get frustrated over it though. Take a calm breath, maybe do something you like. More ideas pop into your head, and your story will be creative.

**christine** · 10-23-2009, 03:39 PM

Well, it depends.
Do you not like the old plan anymore? Because if you don't, start over again. Over time, you kind of just grow out of things and you can recognize all the faults and what not. You may reread all the notes and think some of the things are stupid.
Keep in mind, you can always rewrite after the whole thing has been finished too.

So, it's really your choice and whatever you're most comfortable with. Maybe you could change some of the old plan, but still keep some of it. It would maybe fix some of the problems, but it wouldn't be as difficult cause you wouldn't be starting off with nothing again, right?

**James** · 10-23-2009, 03:39 PM

read over your chapters consecutively once or twice and see if you can get back that feeling or plan in your head that you originally felt when you began writing. also read through your notes, and make any additional changes and edits here and there if you spark a new idea. you dont need to rewrite the whole story unless you feel like there will somehow be a different tone after the first 4 chapters that is noticeable. but if it was me i wouldnt rewrite something i already have written, you know what i mean? if youre hitting writers block try just sitting outside on a nice day and look around and just think of your story, and dont just automatically throw away even the zaniest of ideas, let your mind be creative and flow. you could also try googling writers block tips and exercises. id offer you some but i dont want to make stuff up that wont help while only trying to sound smart lol i honestly hope this could somehow help you!!!