Chapters
by Sandra Carter
(Talbott, Tennessee, United States)
Hello, I'm writing a novel about a woman's life. I was wondering how to title my chapters.
or Chapter 1 1960 to 1965
I want to write the chapters in 5 year spans, but don't know which would look better.
Thank for your time.
Answer: To be honest, I would reconsider whether this is the best way to organize your chapters.
To be a book worth reading, yours needs to cover the important events, the major turning points, in your character's life, and leave out the rest.
Most people's life does not conveniently include a major event within every five year period. By insisting on that framework, you may find yourself having a few chapters in which nothing interesting happens, or a chapter in which too many important things happen, so you can't cover each one properly.
I would suggest you first identify the major events in your character's life. Make sure the book has a solid dramatic structure. Then assign a chapter to each event.
If you want to use chapter titles, make the titles related to the events.
Best of luck.
|
||
| site search by freefind |
Recent Postings
-
What genre would this be?
Aug 23, 20 11:13 PM
Question: I wrote something but I don't know how to classify it. It's about someone who goes on telling their partner the story of their life and career,
-
Synopsis of nonlinear narrative
Jul 20, 20 10:41 PM
Question: How to write the synopsis of nonlinear narrative? I also have two protoganists (in love with each other but has different story goal). To whom
"I've read more than fifty books on writing, writing novels, etc., but your website has the most useful and practical guidance. Now that I understand how a novel is structured, I will rewrite mine, confident that it will be a more interesting novel." - Lloyd Edwards
"Thanks to your "Create a Plot Outline in 8 Easy Steps," I was able to take a story that I simply just fooled around with and went willy nilly all over, into a clearly defined, intriguing battle where two characters fight to keep their relationship intact, and try to find a balance in control of themselves and their lives. Thanks to you, I'm not ashamed of the poor organization of my writing." - Nommanic Ragus
"I am so glad I found your site. It has helped me in so many ways, and has given me more confidence about myself and my work. Thank you for making this valuable resource, for me and my fellow writers. Perhaps you'll hear about me someday...I'll owe it to you." - Ruth, Milton, U.S.A.
"I never knew what to do with all the characters in my head, but since discovering Dramatica I am writing again in my spare time. Thank you for making this available. Yes, it is a bit complex, and it does take time, but I love it because it works." - Colin Shoeman
"I came across your website by chance. It is a plethora of
knowledge, written in a simplistic way to help aspiring writers. I
truly appreciate all of the information you have provided to help me
successfully (relative term) write my novel. Thank you very much!" - Leo T. Rollins
"I
can honestly say that this is the first website that is really helpful.
You manage to answer complex questions in relatively short articles and
with really intelligent answers. Thank you for taking the time to write
these articles and sharing them so generously." - Chrystelle Nash
"...had no idea that a simple click would give me such a wealth of valuable information. The site not only offered extremely clear and helpful instructions but was a very enjoyable read as well. The education from your wonderful site has made me a better writer and your words have inspired me to get back to work on my novel. I wish to give you a heartfelt thanks for How to Write a Book Now, sir." -- Mike Chiero
