We’ll spend the next few issues discussing this concept. Let’s start with a definition.
Idea File: a personal collection of unconnected observed and imagined ideas and story outlines to be used as inspirations for fiction.
(Note that I capitalize Idea File throughout these newsletters, not because it’s proper to do so, but to emphasize the importance of the concept.)
Last issue we discussed how people-watching can lead to valuable observations for your file. Realize that you can and should also record ideas coming entirely from your own mind. Writing is perhaps the only career in which daydreaming can be counted as contributing toward gainful employment.
Also note that the beginning of our definition stresses that this is a personal collection. The primary requirement for inclusion in your file is your inspiration. Is the idea, observation or fantasy inspiring to you?
You may have noticed that, as discussed, items in an Idea File may seem similar to those in Writing Prompts. Let’s clarify further by throwing in another definition.
Prompts: Suggested topics around which a writer might brainstorm ideas.
Cyberspace is filled with inspiring prompts. The difference between a collection of prompts and an Idea File is that the latter is all yours. Prompts are generic, designed to stimulate any number of writers to create. But an Idea File is written over time by and for one writer alone—you. It’s idiosyncratic, meaning that it is unique and reflects only what sparks your individual creativity.
In issue #2, I introduced three elements needed to write a novel. The first is self-discipline, which you’ll need to use now to start building your Idea File. We’ll chat about how to use that material in coming issues. For now, your job is to make it grow, a bit at a time. And to do that you’ll need to train yourself to write things down when you see them and think of them.
The Two Major Idea Sources
1. Observation
Last issue, I encouraged you to note what you learn from people-watching. Observe the world, try to see both sides when people interact, check facial expressions and define personality types. And lest you think that you can only find and record inspiration from the visual observation of people-watching, here’s a reminder to People-listen as well.
2. Imagination
And here’s a reminder of another content-category possible for your Idea File which harkens back to my opening comments (see this excellent site for more).
An Aside on Writer’s Block
Future newsletters will cover the bane of Writer’s Block and give suggestions for how to conquer it. But I’ve got to interject here that a full Idea File is a wonderful cure for the dreaded block. If over time you’ve added the beginnings of stories, small inspirations and possible directions for tales, you will never run out of ideas when you’re ready to start something new. Similarly, if you’ve hit a dead end for your current project, you can take a break, turn to your idea file, search out something that intrigues you at that moment and start working it up. You’ll go back to your original project later with a fresh attitude and new perspectives.
Next issue, I’ll share a couple of items in my personal Idea File. I’ll show how bits like these can come in handy to inspire, add flavoring or description to a tale, or even eventually morph into a full story on their own. In the following issue, I’ll add a few mechanical suggestions on how to prepare yourself to record your ideas.
In the meantime, tap into that self-discipline and start to build your Idea File. You’ll thank yourself later.
And before we go, let’s not neglect our vocabulary offering, complete with hint. It’s a win-win: improve your writing and help save this word. Define it or click and learn it now so you can really make it yours—and yours alone.
What is idiosyncratic?
Before leaving the online dictionary page, don’t forget to listen to and practice the pronunciation.
Action Plan
I offer bullet-points on combating Writer’s Block in my collaboration with C. Elyse. They’re in her Substack publication’s 8/14 edition: “Controversial Humanization.”
Next up:
Issue #5 will be the second of three in my Idea File workshop. Don’t miss A Peek at my Idea File. See you in two weeks!
Craig