The correlation between writing and renovating

As some of you may already know, I’m 18 months into a fairly major renovation of my home. It’s a massive job, and we're undertaking it as owner builders. We still live in the house with our two children as the work goes on around us, so you can imagine it’s a tad stressful (I’m sure my blood pressure would be high if they tested me right now!).

I was thinking about the connection between writing and building. I’m a pantser, so my planning is a bit sketchy when I start a manuscript, but many writers I know (such as my CP) like to create detailed plans prior to beginning a new manuscript. It’s rather like designing the architectural plans and doing research before construction – you need to know where you’re going before you start, and where you’d like to be at the end.

When it comes to constructing the story, writers must be aware of publisher guidelines so they can target the right lines or publisher. Similarly, when it comes to building, there are council rules builders need to be familiar with before work begins. There’s no point designing elaborate plans without a solid knowledge of what is actually allowed in the council area you reside. And budget limits – like word count limits – dictate how the project can progress.

Manuscripts also have a way of taking unexpected detours when ideas begin to flow, and story development begins. That’s when editing or revisions comes in to play – it can all be tidied up at a later date. Even the most organised of writers can’t prevent modifications to their plot as the story develops, so some flexibility is required. Once building/renovation begins, it can get rather messy as well. In order to create something brilliant, the work site can become overloaded, or problems arise, despite attempts to keep things orderly. Builders/homeowners need to accept changes may occur to the original designs, and there isn’t much they can do about it.

Once the writer begins to breathe life into the characters, things begin to click into place. The story unfolds in such a way that the picture begins clearer, and the bones of the story are fleshed out to the point it becomes interesting. Likewise, when the frame of a house goes up, and then the bricks (or similar façade) are added, you begin to see the potential of the home – the builder/architect/homeowner’s vision is being realised.

As writers, we are constantly told our ‘voice’ is what makes up unique. The way in which we express ourselves and tell our story is what makes us stand out from the rest – we can be inspired by others, but need to strive for our own style. Similarly, when it comes to building or decorating, homeowners can make their homes different and unique during the design, construction and fit out phases of the project. The result is their home is a statement of who they are and reflects their personality and tastes. Whether others like it or not is another matter entirely!

As you can see, there are many connections between writing and building/renovating. I’m sure there are more I haven’t considered, but I need to go off and confirm an order of cornices in preparation for the plasterers this week. Writing has to take a back seat at the moment, but I’m hoping next week will mean more time for editing my current WIP.

Ciao, for now!

:-) Mon