Why I Spent 3 Hours Writing 600 Words

I can be a fast writer, but I can be a slow writer too. Throw a 1000 words in 1 hour challenge at me, and I'll come close or go over the word count every time.


But the first draft I'm working on...well, I needed to step back instead of rushing forward.

Over the weekend, I kept thinking about the opening chapter in my current work-in-progress. The structure was fine, but the details nagged me. I did a bit of research and knew I needed to revamp a few things.

Before I started adding and deleting words willy-nilly, I read through the chapter, noting spots that were off. Then I layered in the new details, re-read the passages, and moved sentences that didn't flow well.

I also discovered areas to add more emotional depth--to give the reader more insight about the characters. Love when that happens.

At the end of my session, I logged three hours but I only wrote 600 words. Not a great rate of return! But because I took the time to fix some opening chapter problems, I'll be able to move forward at a fast pace. Nothing slows me down more than the niggling sensation that what I'm writing is off.  That's why I'm willing to sacrifice a high word count in order to fix a story problem.

Do you have slow, low word-count writing days? Or do you refuse to touch your story until the first draft is complete?

Have a terrific day!

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