But I've come to a painful realization as I write something that just flows off my pen.
Not everyone is going to understand what the hell I'm writing about.
So, I have to slow down and think about what will stand on its own and what I'm going to need to explain one way or another. See, if I were to say the SPARTY* and the SPAAG** were putting down suppressive fire on an observation post, unless you had been in the military or were a military buff, most of that would go over the average reader's head. So, at least here in the beginning, I have to force myself to explain some of the concepts and acronyms that just naturally roll off my tongue.
Still, I'm having a ball writing this one. Especially since I'm writing this one sans outline, which is a major step out in faith for me. I'm definitely a plotter, not a pantser. However, this just seems to be flowing, so I figure why argue with what's working.
So, Steel on Target continues to grow. I added another 1352 words to Chapter Two tonight and have our intrepid band of cavalry troopers on the move. Seems like I'll probably be bouncing between Steel on Target and Childhood's Tears until the end of the year. I still need to decide on a writing schedule for the start of the new year, but this seems to work for now.
Oh and by the way:
*SPARTY - Self-propelled Artillery
**SPAAG - Self-propelled Anti-Aircraft Guns
- Current Mood:
contemplative
- Current Music:The theme music to Johnny Quest
Comments
"Look out, here comes a RUBBER!"
Ten thousand metal darts scattered over the enemy emplacement, exploding whenever they hit flesh.
'Tis fun, tho, ain't it? :D
Still, I think there's a good market for both and besides, if Brian Daley can write a story about an M115 taking on a Dragon, why not me?
(Bonus points for the first one who names that story.)
Now, personally, I tend to think that the average reader of SF/F is a bit more worldly than the average reader period, but when you start confusing your beta readers, you're probably a little too far down in the weeds.
Edited at 2007-12-12 04:06 pm (UTC)
"What?" said Cerdic. "Sorry. I was too busy tinkering with the balance on my armet. The rondal is too light, so it's just a little front heavy, know what I mean?"
My job has become looking for glassy eyes and expanding the acronyms I'm familiar with. :-p