By
eHow Careers & Work Editor
Difficulty: Moderately challenging
Step1
Read classic and modern American literature voraciously. If you aspire to write the next Great American Novel, it's essential to become familiar with those that already exist. Develop a sense of the many recurring themes in American literature, such as defiance of the natural world or the individual versus society.
Step2
Start writing. Create a permanent writing space in your house and set aside a block of time each day to work. Treat your writing time as seriously as you would a job.
Step3
Take a creative- or novel-writing class. You'll learn how to sketch out various aspects of a story, including characters, themes, conflicts, dialogue, pacing and structure. Get comfortable with critiques and glean feedback from instructors and colleagues.
Step4
Plot the entire story, but work on developing only the beginning. Though you should have a clear direction that the entire novel will follow, leave room for changes.
Step5
Polish and edit the beginning before proceeding. You can show this high-quality section to agents or publishers. The exercise forces you to define and develop your characters.
Step6
Have a qualified editor read your work. Ask for honest feedback. Develop a thick skin, listen carefully, and be thankful for the help, even if the comments are negative. Revise accordingly.
Step7
Purchase a directory of literary agents. Send your sample section to agents who are interested in your type of writing. If one offers to represent you, expect to pay the agent a percentage of any deal he or she negotiates with a publisher.
Step8
Start calling yourself a writer, if anyone asks.
Comments
davedollarbay said
on 11/6/2007 Hi, I am Dave, a Michigan Tech student in HU 3120 The American Novel. Can the Great American Novel still be written. I am going to go out for a quesadilla and a taco and decide after dinner.
I enjoyed this page on eHow, hope you did also.
GO BLUE, Go Huskies.