The latter part of this week went into researching how to write a synopsis, and then actually writing the thing. My first attempt sucked, but it got all the important plot stuff in the correct order. Second attempt yesterday went slightly better. I tried to inject a bit of the narrative voice into it (as per my research), but so far the critiques I’ve gotten on it suggest that it’s not a good idea. And my plot is confusing. And…
So, it’s back to the drawing board. I expected this, being that this is the first time I’ve ever done this. It’s just so hard to stuff 5 pages of plotty stuff into 3 or less. And make it compelling, and interesting, and not confusing. So that’s my goal for next week, nailing this down so I can work on the final edit of the first 10k for the submission.
I’m kind of scared. I know that must sound ridiculous, but this is m first submission to a publisher EVER. In fact, up till late last year, I was planning on self-pubbing everything. Or finding a small e-publisher. But something told me to go for it. And with Pirouette, well…I’d always dreamed of having it traditionally published, even after I’d decided to self-pub. And…well, it’s scary taking this step, but the only way to have a chance is if I try. So, I need to just do it.
On the physical activity front, I house-walked for 5 minutes on Thursday but was too winded to continue for the next 10. I also did some cleaning today for at least 15 minutes which I’m counting. So, 1.5 times this week?
How are you doing on your goals?
Weaver of Words 
Erin, I don’t think your fear is unreasonable at all. It is a big step, even when you are ready for it. I am submitting something of mine for the first time in decades this spring, and I am gibbering in fear.
It sounds like you have continued to work on physical activity, so good job there as well!
Thank you, Elizabeth! You are right about that. Good luck with your submission!
Synopsis writing can be so hard. One thing that can help you practice is to do a synopsis of a TV show you watch. But not just any kind of synopsis. You imagine that your best friend is a rabid fan of the show, and she had to miss the latest episode. (She’s locked up at a fitness camp or something — no TV, but she can talk to you on the phone or read your letters.) You have to tell her what she missed.
Now do the same thing with your book.
Camille, that is a really good idea! I will try that. 🙂
Learning to write a synopsis is a whole other skill set. Good for you, tackling this new hard thing!
Thank you, Jnfr!
Synopses are horrible to write! I’m so glad my current publisher doesn’t ask for them. And good luck with the submission! Thing to remember is, no one’s going to hunt you down and hurt you if they don’t like what you send. In fact, they are very unlikely to remember it! Just remind yourself of that, and get it out there!
Jennette, thank you! I will try to remember that. 😉