auria “Hussein” cortes

During the month of November I participated in Nanowrimo. For those of you who aren’t familiar, Nanowrimo it is a contest where participants are challenged to write a 50,000-word novel within thirty days. Those who reach the word count receive a certificate of participation.

When November 1^st rolled around, I began the novel sans title and storyline. All I knew was how the first scene would unfold. By the third day of writing the title came to me (30 Days to Justice) and the plot was unfolding nicely.  

Before the month was over, I reached the goal of 50K. I was amazed that I was able to write so many words in less than thirty days. With The Devil’s Playground, I’ve only written 4,281 words since August. The average novel is 90,000 words. I have a long way to go. 

 For the next three months, I’m committing to write 5,000 words per week towards The Devil’s Playground. The first draft is set to be complete on March 31, 2008.

Every Monday, I will provide a word count so all of you can take note of my progress. Back in 1999, Caroll O’Connor of Archie Bunker fame, wrote a book called I’m Outta Here. In it, he made a point that has stayed with me for all these years. O’Connor theorized that the reason most people don’t achieve their goals is because when they hit an obstacle or something else seems easier to accomplish they change their goals midstream (I’m paraphrasing).

 That’s exactly what I have been doing. I’ve had The Devil’s Playground formulating in my mind since I was fourteen years old. At the age of 21, I sat down to write the book, but didn’t write a word because the blank page paralyzed me. Instead of working through it, I moved on to something less labor intensive…like going to the movies with my friends.

4281 / 90000 words. 5% done!

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