When Writers Get Stuck

Writers, whether plotters or pantsers, inevitably get stuck somewhere along the way in the creation of their story and struggle to find a way forward. It’s a situation I’m familiar with, and it brought to mind a Robert Burns quote: “The best-laid plans of mice and men often go awry.” So, what’s a writer to do other than stare at the screen like a zombie for hours on end or throw their hands in the air and walk away in frustration?

Let’s explore some possible solutions to that dreaded malady some refer to as writer’s block.

Start Before You Stop

When you reach a stopping point, it may be helpful to leave a reminder or idea(s) of what needs to happen next where you leave off so it will be easier to pick up and continue. You may know where the story is going, but your brain has had enough for the day. A few key words or phrases will remind you what’s coming next or what you need to create as you begin again. I type my ideas in all caps at the end of what I’ve just written; they jump out at me so I don’t think it’s part of the narrative of the story.

Here’s an example:

As Penny slid the last pan of chocolate chip cookies in the oven, she heard a nearly continuous, persistent fist pounding on the door.

WHO IS IT? HER FRIEND JACKIE OR A STRANGER? THE SAME MAN SHE SAW WHEN SHE WAS LEAVING THE MARKET? DOES SHE FORGET THE COOKIES IN THE OVEN AND THEY BURN? SET THE SMOKE DETECTORS OFF? START A FIRE? COULD BE THE LANDLORD, WANTING THE RENT THAT IS LATE.

Stick With That Scene

You might be in the middle of a scene that appears to be going nowhere. What’s the point? Something is supposed to be happening to move the plot forward, but the scene feels like it’s lost and doesn’t know where to go.

Sometimes a deeper dig will solve the problem.

Study the scene for clues and/or ideas that help your characters out of that hopeless situation. This approach recently worked for me when I had my character in the attic of a manor house and I had no idea why she was there. I was ready to delete the scene and put her somewhere else, but then I took some time to study the surroundings and explore what opportunities might present themselves.

After some thought and digging around, she opened a dusty, old trunk and discovered something inside that will prove very important to the story. The scene was saved, the discovery reminded the reader of a past event, and it moved the plot of the story forward.

Get Up and Leave

Yes, sometimes getting away from the story helps find the solution. Doing something unrelated can clear your mind and open the gateway to the solution you’re seeking. Sometimes a detail or object will become the key in solving the problem and moving your story forward. Keep an open mind to whatever it might be. The first thing your mind might latch onto might not be the solution, but it may lead you to the one you’re seeking. Patience and perseverance are key.

For writers, giving up is not an option. Writers have to write. So, when those uncomfortable, stagnant times appear, consider one or more of these solutions. They may help you forge on ahead; if your characters are stumped, you can help them find their way.