Synopsis Finished!
Last night I wrote the dreaded Synopsis, and survived! I really do hate writing a synopsis. I understand it as a necessary evil, but it’s just so darn difficult! Honestly, how are we supposed to condense a 400 page novel down to just 4 pages? It’s like cutting out a part of your own heart!
Most submissions to contests, agents, and editors all require a synopsis. I can definitely see why it’s a valuable tool, but writing a synopsis feels like an entirely different skill from writing the actual novel. You have to stand back and see what your story’s essence truly is. Where are the turning points? What is the strand of character development that becomes essential to the story? What are the climaxes?
With National Conference only about a week and a half away, I had no choice but to sit down and pound it out. It’s definitely going to need some work, but at least I’ve gotten four solid pages down. Now, I’m headed out to Cafe Carolina to write with my critique partner Jennifer.
Synopses are EVIL. No question. You're exactly right when you say that it's a different skill than actual writing, and significantly less enjoyable.
My first attempt at a synopsis for UNCHOSEN was twelve pages long, single-spaced. My CP actually recoiled in horror when I tried to give it to her, so your four solid pages put you well ahead of the game.
I haven't started mine yet…just got the query done. I'm taking a break from my draft, so I'll tackle the synopsis once I'm making my final edits. Wish me luck!
Good job on finishing your query Elena! Good luck to you! I just finalized my pitch paragraph for agent/editor appointments, and I'm hoping I can stay calm enough to deliver when the time comes, haha!