Hello all!
Thought I would address this question where everyone can see it.
So, what is a Write-in?
Picture this: several writers show up at the same place. Everyone sets up their preferred writing equipment: laptop, Neo, paper & pen, etc. Usually there are a variety of iPods/Mp3 players/portable CD players & headphones. A timer is set (usually for about 30 minutes) and the magic begins.
There really is something magical about a group of writers getting together to write. I have heard it said that there is an energy that comes from a gathering like this. Personally, I believe it.
Most write-ins, I manage 1500 - 2500 words. Let's do the math, shall we? NaNoWriMo is about 30 days of noveling. Our goal is 50,000 words. That works out to be 1,667 words per day. Not bad. If someone can average 2,000 words at a 2 hour write-in, your novel could be complete in 25 days and there are 5 left over.
Does it work that way? Of course not, life gets in the way. You may need everyone of those 30 days or you may get lucky and get 3,000 words and need less days. It doesn't matter, either way you are meeting your goal.
BUT - I can tell you that only about 2,000 - 2,500 of my words were NOT written at a write-in last year. The year before, there were a few more but I have come to rely heavily on a write-in.
The write-in introduces you to other people, writers who have a desire to meet this NaNoWriMo challenge as well. From these write-ins, I have new friends and family. I also have 4 years of 50,000+ word novels.
Yeah - it is good. It is so good that the calendar will have a write-in for all but two days in November.
HOWEVER - there are some RULES!
At a write-in, we don't interfere with other novelists while the timer is on. Save conversations for the break.
Your phone rings? Please respect your fellow authors and step away from the writing area.
Be sure to support your "host" site: don't bring food or beverage to an establishment that is hosting us. Buy from the establishment. These people are happy to have us there and they are excited to see what we are doing.
I hope this helps define what a write-in is. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact me at dsmnano@gmail.com. I try to check that every day and will respond as quickly as I can.
The count down is on. Hopefully we will see you at the kick off party or at a write-in soon!
Mary
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Proud to be the ML of the Iowa:: Central Iowa region!
