Rules for Novels

As we move into the homestretch of NaNoWriMo, it seemed only appropriate to practice my calligraphy on a quote about writing novels.

"There are 3 rules for writing a novel. Unfortunately, no one knows what they are." ~W. Somerset Maughan

“There are 3 rules for writing a novel. Unfortunately, no one knows what they are.” ~W. Somerset Maughan

I love the precise number of rules, that no one knows, for writing a novel. It can feel that way sometimes, especially in the middle of writing a first draft, as if everyone is acting like they know what they are doing when they really have as little a clue as you do. What I think is really great about this quote, though, is that it is freeing. If no one knows the three rules are, then we don’t have to worry about following or breaking them. Then we can just get on with the business of writing.

I hope you have having a lovely November. And, if you are participating in NaNoWriMo, I wish you amazing writing days and nights filled with dreams that answer all your noveling questions.