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From Blank Page to Bold Start

Evan Swensen
Author Masterminds
Published in
4 min readJan 3, 2025

How do you start writing a novel? This question has haunted aspiring writers for centuries, and rightly so. The first step in creating a narrative that holds a reader’s attention is often the most daunting. It’s the leap from idea to execution — a chasm that, when bridged, can transform a mere concept into a compelling story.

Let’s unravel this mystery step by step.

1. Start with the Why

Before you put pen to paper or fingers to keyboard, ask yourself: Why do I want to write this novel? Is it to tell a story that’s been burning in your mind for years, to explore an idea, or to express a personal truth? Identifying your motivation can serve as your North Star throughout the writing process.

Consider J.R.R. Tolkien’s approach to The Lord of the Rings. Tolkien began with a deep love for language and mythology. His intricate world-building stemmed from his passion for philology, and his “why” was the desire to craft a mythology for England. Understanding this helped him navigate the labyrinth of Middle-earth’s creation.

2. Map Out Your World

Tolkien famously said, “I wisely started with a map and made the story fit.” While not all writers need a literal map, having a figurative one can be transformative. This map might be a detailed outline, a series of character…

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Author Masterminds
Author Masterminds

Published in Author Masterminds

Where Every Reader is a Friend, and Every Author Approachable

Evan Swensen
Evan Swensen

Written by Evan Swensen

Book publisher, editor, author, Author Masterminds charter member, founder of Readers and Writers Book Club, and bush pilot.

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