Writing Fiction: Freewriting

Freewriting is an effective strategy to not only “unblock” yourself when you seem to be staring at a blank screen, it can also help you get to know more about your character and your story.

I like to freewrite in a notebook with a pen in hand. Something about the feel of that pen stimulates my mind and allows me to unlock even its deepest recesses. I usually sit in a comfortable chair and start writing whatever comes into my mind.

I’ll write about a character’s past. Where did she go to high school? Who were her friends? Did she play sports? Swim? Write stories? Perform in plays? Did she have a boyfriend? A best friend? A lot of friends? Was she popular, funny, beautiful, kind? I’ll write about certain experiences she had that helps me understand her current motivation.

I’ll also write about her family and the relationship she had with her parents and siblings, her family home, and any pets she might have had.

Was she religious? Courageous? Shy? Spontaneous? Conservative? What does she dream about now? What are her goals and aspirations? Is she happy now? What does she lack in her life? What are her fears? Why?

I tell my inner editor to be quiet while I freewrite so I can explore the depths of my character and allow her to speak to me. I don’t ever use 95% of what I freewrite, but knowing these details helps me to create a more believable character.

I also freewrite about the story and consider different options for the storyline. I ask myself, “What if?” as I write to spur even more story possibilities.

While freewriting can be in narrative form, you can also freewrite in a web form. For example, you can place the character’s name in the middle of the paper and write all the details that come to mind, connecting similar details together with lines. When you are finished, it will resemble a spider web.

You can also use a list format to jot down different details or plot ideas. Another option is to place similar details on note cards or use your computer to keep track of your freewriting.

The important thing about freewriting is to allow your mind free reign to go wherever it wants to go without worrying about that internal editor. Don’t worry about spelling, grammar, or anything but allowing your creativity the freedom it needs to create that story within you.

Try freewriting and see where it takes you.