laura resau interview (part 3 of 3): plot threads
One of the things I’ve been struggling to get a handle on as a writer is weaving a number of plot threads together in an interesting and clear way for the reader, while at the same time remembering and balancing them as a writer. Laura Resau’s The Jade Notebook is an exceptional example of the weaving many plot threads together into a beautiful story. In this final part of the interview with Laura Resau, she shares some insights into plot.
I love the way you wove many different story threads to create a rich story with lots of depth in The Jade Notebook. What is your process like in order to tie so many threads together? How do you balance planning specific scenes, while at the same time giving the story space to unfold as you draft?
Thank you! You know, I was on a tight deadline with the Notebooks series, which spanned from the time we adopted our baby (nine months old) to this year, when he was four. I was also writing and revising other books during that time, so I was really struggling to find time for everything. After I finished the second book in the series (The Ruby Notebook), my mom, who is my most trusted and competent critiquer (right up there with my editor), advised me to make the third and final book (The Jade Notebook) relatively short and simple, to make life easier for myself. I tried, but I just couldn’t do it! I think it has to do with the fact that my characters come alive for me, even the minor ones. I feel compelled to tell their stories as well, and find a way to let their subplots connect with the main character’s one.
Somehow, this was just what I needed to hear. I think it gave me resolve to keep going, knowing in the end there are going to be “holes in places and bogged down with unnecessary scenes and words in other places.” These words from Laura, coupled with this #TeachersWrite post about outlining helped me start trusting myself and writing my story again.
Thank you Laura for taking the time to give insightful and inspiring answers. Good luck as you continue to write. I’ll be looking forward to reading your next books! Remember to continue getting more inspiration from Laura you can read her blog, check her website, or fan her Facebook page.
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