It's all fun and games until your characters start doing whatever they want and ruin all your ideas (that's cool though, they usually have better ones)
Or, in case of certain epic fantasy -penta- -hexa- heptalogy it derails you completely and you have to face the fact it's been over 20 years, you're not excited about what you're writing, and there are all the commitments you made to your fans... tough spot to be in
I think that just means that you haven't fully grasped the characters you've created, and completely planned out the story you want 🤔 Because, unless don't you completely know your characters and how they'll flow with your outlined story, it'll seem like they have a mind of their own. It's best to, yeah, as Mr. UA-camr said, fall in love with your characters (know them completely) before writing what you want, or else all your plans for the book's plot could end up as scraps.
This has to be some sort of joke. Your characters only "do" what you dictate. They don't have free will. They don't exist. Do I really have to spell this out???
"Not all writing is writing. Thinking, staring, researching, stressing, reading other people's books, reading your own book again, reading stuff that you've already written--all of that stuff is writing." This is so validating! Thank you so much for saying this!
Call The Book “Forever An Absolutely Remarkable Thing”. Not just because I’m actually quite proud of it, but it would give you that ‘FAART’ acronym you wanted so much.
You have a break up and what could have been the worst day on earth turns into the best day because turns out your most favourite book ever will most definitely have a sequel! Love you, Hank
It's funny that one Green brother has described his books as about "plot being interrupted by character" and the other says he started with plot and needed more character :)
Writing in a non-linear fashion is the ABSOLUTE BEST. I do this all the time, and it keeps me motivated to actually make it to the cool scenes I've already written.
I find it deeply interesting that John seems to have a harder time talking about writing than Hank. Not that John isn’t good at talking about it but his answers are often “I just kinda sit down and do it”. It’s a really cool case study to see two brothers do such a similar thing, one being kinda naturally talented and one having to work at it more in a structured way.
I also think it's a difference in how they think about things generally. Hank is more analytical, which leads him towards being more science and math focused, but also means that even in his creative ventures he is more process oriented, whereas John is more intuitive and feelings based, which means he doesn't think so much about the process of things, he just does them. I'm a more analytical person myself, which has made me shy away from creative ventures, but seeing Hank succeed in something outside of the rational realm has made me question whether I should give that sort of thing more of a chance
@@kevinwells9751 > I'm a more analytical person myself, which has made me shy away from creative ventures, but seeing Hank succeed in something outside of the rational realm has made me question whether I should give that sort of thing more of a chance You may find creative pursuits really enjoyable! Doing art or writing can often feel a lot like problem solving. And it can be fun tackling it like that, particularly when you think of answers and apply them and see them work.
@@KatieWillems this! I've had my attempts at long form storytelling, most of it IS problem solving and making the bigger plot points connect with each other! And doing research and making sure the setting or certain plot points make sense! So yeah, having an analytical mind does help with creative endeavours! It helps to be able to keep track of a list of sections and content you need to sort out, at least that's the way I see it
Loving seeing all these predominantly analytical people (who are typically made to believe they aren’t “artsy”) not only attempt but excel at creative endeavors and encouraging others to do the same! The whole right brain/left brain thing is nonsense; keep breaking barriers, Nerdfighters!
I think it has to do with the amount of practice you do, to a degree--Hank has done writing, don't get me wrong, but John's career is as an author and Hank's is more like 'all the jobs.' There is also arguably something magical about creating characters that can disagree with you. I do think a general difference is present in how they think about things, but I think it's more subjective than 'analytical' versus 'intuitive.' I certainly didn't start out as an intuitive writer but I've had to learn to be one in order to enjoy writing. It is certainly encouraging though! I have always thought of writing as a hobby, but now I am more motivated to try to write a real novel!
Hank, I just want to throw you a quick thank you. I teach grade 8 English in Canada, and An Absolutely Remarkable Thing was the novel I chose for a class read-aloud this term. Both the students and I loved returning to your story every time we picked up the novel. Maybe less f-bombs in the sequel, alright?...ha.
@@vlogbrothers We need to get Nerdfighters to band together and create some kind of bank of opinion-based and critical thinking questions to be explored in a classroom setting! The story is ripe for discussion about humanity, technology, society and the kinds of world-changing events that could unite or divide a people.
@@vlogbrothers My Librarian gf is always complaining about how great a book was, but because it has a real world number of F-bombs she can't put it on a shelf that the younger kids can access. Parents care more about an F-Bomb than sex in the other room, and way more than a violent death,
@@Psy0psAgent Even more unnecessary than Titanic 2. And this was already so unnecessary that it didn't happen. I feel the Highlander should have learned from that.
I'm currently 7 chapters into the audiobook, yelling text your girl!!!!! into my empty house and absolutely loving it!! Tysm Hank, and it's cool to know that there will be a sequel :)
this is great, you guys are such wholesome people. John, I LOVE your books, can you do a video about your inspiration for your books especially The fault in our stars, looking for Alaska, paper towns.
Fabulous! As a writer, I could totally empathize with a lot of this. I've always written the exciting scenes first, and sometimes, my characters leave me tearing my hair out over decisions they make that I didn't plan. Being such a young writer is a struggle, because I look at my writing from even just a year ago, and I know they characters don't sound as real as the ones I write now. That's a fascinating sign of growth, but incredibly frustrating sometimes.
Great description of the writing process. I can relate to getting attached to certain scenes, only to find that they don't fit in when the time comes. I choose to honor the characters and go with the existing flow. I love your enthusiasm. Wishing you continued success with your writing.
I seriously appreciate the fact that you pointed out so many other things you're doing about the book (reading, researching, checking into other things) count towards the 'writing' part of it. I get at myself regularly if I'm trying to figure out HOW to write a scene because I'm not actually WRITING the scene. Cheers man.
Hank, I absolutely loved your book. It was clear that it was such a labor of love, with so much thought and care and emotions about the entertainment industry, and I honestly have not stopped thinking about it since it's initial release. It is so clear that you love each of the characters, even when it's hard to love them for the mistakes that they have made. I can't wait for your sequel!
That one about writing the scenes you’re excited about was the most helpful for me. I’ve been working on my book for a couple years now on and off. I often have a specific scene I’m really excited about and want to write, but I don’t because I keep thinking that I need to stay with where I am in the story linearly. This has changed my life.
This has not changed your life at all. His advice is mostly wrong and contradictory. He is a poor writer. I am guessing like him you did not 'plot' your book. Now if you learn plotting... that might change your life.
the plotting retcon thing is SO SO REAL. also YES TO falling in love with your characters!! also... OMG I CANNOT WAIT FOR THE SEQUEL. (my review video for an absolutely remarkable thing is coming next week!)
I'm stuck writing my first novel right now and I just wanted to thank you for this video (I'll be sure to apply all the new advice I got when I write tomorrow!!!!)
Recently listened to both AART and TATWD and I love how much of the Green brothers I see in these novels. It is clear that they have not just come up with a good story and gone with it. I am super impressed with how they have brought their insight, expertise, and experience into these novels not only to entertain but to inform and express truth. TATWD has truly opened my eyes to what it might be like for someone living with chronic anxiety. Thank you brothers Green.
Hank, thank you so much for this advice. Its a great comfort to know a lot of the difficulties I'm having are normal and don't mean my story is a flop. I always thought I must be a bad wtiter because I didn't have all the details of the characters and the world to fill in my story as I began writing. But knowing its okay to start at bare bones, to go back and change things as you write, to work things out and decide things and come up with ideas as you go, and then going back and adding them. Well, it makes me feel a lot less alone. Its kinda scary when you hear all this advice about "your characters needs to have all these things, your plot needs to have all these" etc, when you're just starting your story and can't possibly incorporate all that into your writing when you're just starting to write the story.
Thank you, Hank. I'm normally a very prolific writer, but these last few months have been a desert. Your words area good reminder of the joy and struggle of it all.
As a beginning writer, I have watched maybe hundreds of videos on writting and I thought they all said pretty much the same things. This one actually helped me. Thank you
"Good morning John, remember how I wrote a book." Best opening line of a vlogbrother video ever😎 (Edit: thank you so much to everyone who's liked this. I wasn't expecting it but that's the thing that makes nerdfighteria special)
Your point on expertise really hits home for me. As a young writer, I always tried to write about subjects I knew nothing about. I just made things up as I went. Over the years, I've learned that life experience can be a great tool for my writing, and I've since tried to focus on writing in genres I know something about. Either that or setting stories in fictional worlds where I can make my own rules.
I really appreciate how you and John (or John and you) have opened up the writing process for us aspiring storytellers. At least for me, your guys’ videos have helped to make the idea of writing a little less nebulous and terrifying. Thanks!
VLOGBROTHERS DEEP CUT ALERT: John actually *did* (start to) write a novel about soccer! :D Titled "The Space," an excerpt from the book was released alongside John's first-ever story ("The Cat and the Mouse") as a PDF perk for 2014 P4A supporters. It features hilarious dialogue; much to this Mountaineer's delight, it takes place in West Virginia; and as you'd expect from John, the writing itself is frequently gorgeous. The opening is especially striking: "Duarte and I prepared for the AA District finals as we had for every game that season, in the steam tunnels beneath New Pine High School, the darkness complete except for the beam of our headlamps.... I told myself it was just another game, that life is long and soccer is short, but I could not shake the feeling that it might be the last time we’d play together. I did not mention this to Duarte, who was invisible to me except for the circular white light beaming from his forehead. In terms of the visible world at least, he was the light." -- Also: Fantastic video, Hank! Thank you! :D
Agree about the importance of characters and, strangely, also had the same epiphany with 'plot versus characters'. I always thought plot came first but, while editing a book with two absorbing protagonists (doubling up on protagonists is a different video … ), realised only a third of the way through it's the changes in them which are keeping me reading. Great advice. Thank you.
There can never be too many sausage-making videos on the writing process. Thanks for making this, Hank. "If you focus on word count, you’re going to get more words; if you focus on story, you’re going to get more story" is already in my writing notes.
Thanks to this video, I’ve created a “things to change” document for my dissertation to add to as I go through without getting sidetracked, and turns out it applies super well😄
Read your book in 24 hours, looking forward to the sequel. Writing that sequel seems hard. Like the first one was using Sci Fi to explore fame. But for the sequel do you continue on with that framing or do you use that universe to explain some other idea?! I have no idea what you are going to do and I am so excited.
Thank you for this, Hank! Most of the books I've tried to write were supposed to be purely historical but I always ended up stuck and losing confidence. Now I'm starting to write fantasy and I have more freedom with story and setting but I have so much reading to do. Fantasy novels and short stories, history books, myths and folklore, science, magic, psychology, books about writing, my old first drafts, etc. It's reassuring be reminded that I'm still working on writing even when I'm doing more reading than actual writing.
I know I'm astronomically late to this video but so many of the things you touch on are EXACTLY what I have been doing and you explain a better way so logically. THANK YOU
Re-entering this space of youtube and feeling an overwhelming sense of peace and comfort. Thanks Hank! Also, I really needed this advice, so thanks for that too
Some of this stuff I knew already, but I like the idea of waiting to change past stuff until later. Keeping a note of what to fix when you're doing the revision is a great idea.
I actually managed to get hold of your book on sale at a trainstation in Germany one week ago! I have been looking everywhere to get it, and now I have it (in English of course). I'm so excited to finally read it! 🎊🎉
I first started watching VlogBrothers in 2007 and over the years I've gone through phases of watching every single video and other phases of watching a video occasionally if I have time to kill. One thing for certain is that I always come back. John and Hank have been a huge part of my life. This whole community that they've created feels like a home. I know they can't continue this forever, but I appreciate them so much for all the years. I hope they continue this for many, many years to come. They've helped me through some of the hardest times in my life. They're very important people to me, and they don't even know who I am. Just, thank you John and Hank. Thank you for being such good people in a ocean of darkness.
Thank you thank you thank you! I was feeling so guilty cause I hadn’t sat down to actually write. But that’s because I was reading TONS on how to better my writing, researching, expanding my thought process. Studying on how I failed on writing before and how to improve. More research, concept building and solidifying my story world. I was feeling annoyed cause I hadn’t actually written yet but by you saying that it makes my time feel worth while.
Thank you for this. I feel with you on many things. Above all, falling in love with my characters... well, I consider them my children. I guess some people have them for friends, some for lovers... nevertheless, it is a beautiful feeling, thinking of my characters and weaving that story where they meet and interact, feel, struggle together and allow me to go through it all with them. So yes, love and passion works wonders and I'm happy I'm not the only person feeling it. And you don't give any needless technical advice, just hints for inspiration - I really appreciate that. Thank you again.
I'm writing a script for a short play and the part of the video that talks about getting a certain amount of writing in per week caused alarm bells to go off in my mind because I haven't written anything in about 2 weeks now. Thanks for keeping me on my toes Hank.
OMG John writing a soccer novel is the best idea I've heard recently!!! I don't care about soccer (or car racing) but when John talks about it, I listen.
AHHHH MY QUESTION WAS IN THE VIDEOOOOOOOOO Edit: thanks for the answer. I do get too caught up in trying to nitpick the story to make it continuous before it even needs to be continuous. Thanks Hank!
I am starting agent queries this week with two manuscripts at hand and I am *so nervous* even if I won't be physically face to face with people... This was wonderful to watch and listen to, because it helped ease some of that and remind me that I can allow myself to be goofy with excitement for a while longer, hehe
Really good advice ! As an amateur writer, I agree with virtually all your points, from experience alone. Writing non-linearly, for instance, is actually helpful. About the only downside to it is keeping track where it will come in later, depending on whether you're doing chronological or non-chronological storytelling. I'd suggest anyone writing new chapters or just scenes or extended vignettes for their story always accompany these with brief notes (written in italics). When you don't know how to complete a whole chapter, etc., you can always go back, read what you wrote, then read the notes you left behind, and try to follow your earlier thoughts and ideas from there. I love how you stress that "getting to know" your characters before you start plotting en masse is very important. Very well said. I always feel more confident elaborating a story when I have a handle on the fictional individuals I'm writing about. And that can take a while to gestate, as you try to mentally sketch these people, what their life stories up until then might be, their temperaments, personalities, beliefs... Neglecting characters isn't good for stories, unless you want a shallow story, even in an immersive setting or narrative.
The ads for Neil Gaiman's masterclass say that you write the first draft, and then the second draft is about making it look like you meant to do that all along. So I'm pretty sure Hank's in good company here.
Funny thing, you got me through my science degree and now I’m writing people’s stories of health on my phd AND producing books. Busy times but I’m loving the writing process. Thanks for these tips.
y'all. y'all, if he calls it An Absolutely Remarkable Sequel, then the initials will be AARS. We couldn't get FART to work out but maybe...... maybe we can get AARS.
I didn't know I needed a John Green soccer novel, and I do now! Nor did I realize this thing, where I get to a certain point and what my characters have in mind is better and more interesting than my outline, is more usual than I realized. My friends (and fellow writers) only sometimes get it. Also, as someone struggling to actually write a novel this is really helpful advice, thank you!
love the vid, hank! we know you’re working very hard, so please don’t feel the need to worry about updating us all the time on the sequel. take your time, we’ll be here :)
THANXXXX from my heart for this video, so good to know I am not alone with the challenges and approaches described! Yes its definitely my way to set to work so still a year to go🙂
I would strongly recommend that you take a look at a story development program called Causality. It's mainly intended for screenplays, but the basic concept works just as well for novels. Even if you do not actually end up using it, just having seen some of the video tutorials about Causality will help you think about writing in a very different way. It makes so much sense to develop your story - its plot, themes, subtext, character arcs, et.c. - independently from writing the body text itself. Causality does this by forcing you to build your story out of well defined "beats", that simultaneously work as containers for your actual text, which you can just fill out as inspiration comes along. Just do a quick search for Causality, right here on UA-cam. You will not regret it.
Oh good. These are all thoughts I've already had so it is wonderful to hear a fantastic published author to have the same experiences in writing as I do!
Just found this! I'm in a really similar situation. For my first book (Unkillable Joe) I had no real process and I pantsed the whole thing. I got extremely lucky in that it's doing well, but for my second, I'm outlining, weighing character motivations, setting up the climax and all that... It feels like I'm having to educate myself all over again. Our current process if really similar but for me, a writing schedule is like a gym schedule. It should be there but super flexible. So you can try to get there by a certain time, but as long as you make it that day, you did your job. Or connect the two? By connecting writing to something I do a lot (like exercise) I get to think about what I'm about to write for an hour before, which really helps get me motivated. My two beans anyway... Excellent vid btw! It was refreshing to hear someone cover the exact situation I was JUST dealing with (albeit this is an older video) Subbed. :)
Holy SHIT. A “things to change” folder is going to seriously change my workflow. every time I go back to edit a plot issue I drop off my routine for weeks. Thank you!
Great, punchy advice. I 100% agree about the non-linear writing I think having a skeletal overview of what'll happen by the end is important but the "moments" come to you, I suppose. I would contest the "write 1000 words a week" comment though - I think as long as you're keeping something alive in your mind to do with the story then it's fine. I'm a teacher so I have to write primarily with 6-week chunks.
Bueno aquí va un comentario en español ggg pero quería decir que como escritora principiante es muy inspirador ver este video y escuchar a Hank muy emocionado. Me hace sentir motivada a seguir escribiendo, dejar mis inseguridades un poquito y acabar esa historia que estoy escribiendo. Es bonito tener una comunidad así 💖💖🥰 A todos los que se sienten abrumados al ver su historia no acabada, esta bien. Tú puedes, sigue intentándolo 💗💕✨
actually super helpful, as I am in the process of writing a book- linearly, plot-centric, and stuck in a rut because I’ve been too busy to write for the past few weeks. I should set myself that 1000 word/week goal, starting now.
Amen to retconning. Constant for me, as ideas evolve as I'm writing and I realize I need to go back to make sure all the previous details line up with the new plan.
Screech of agreement at (i) needing to keep the story in one’s mind and (ii) changing plot as the book continues and keeping track of what has to be changed - then changing it later on.
I would absolutely love to hear about the failed novel projects you worked on! Arin from Game Grumps did a few episodes about art he did when he was young and games that never saw the light of day and I think those are really inspiring for people who haven't completed something to their satisfaction yet.
For some scenes I need to be in a specific mood to write, to really feel them. So if I am having a really bad time for example a scene might come to me really vivid and I know I have to sit down and write that scene no matter where it is in the book. These are the best scenes I have in my book, because they feel real and alive like a diary entry.
It's all fun and games until your characters start doing whatever they want and ruin all your ideas (that's cool though, they usually have better ones)
That reminds me of a DM and their players XD XD XD
Or, in case of certain epic fantasy -penta- -hexa- heptalogy it derails you completely and you have to face the fact it's been over 20 years, you're not excited about what you're writing, and there are all the commitments you made to your fans... tough spot to be in
I think that just means that you haven't fully grasped the characters you've created, and completely planned out the story you want 🤔
Because, unless don't you completely know your characters and how they'll flow with your outlined story, it'll seem like they have a mind of their own. It's best to, yeah, as Mr. UA-camr said, fall in love with your characters (know them completely) before writing what you want, or else all your plans for the book's plot could end up as scraps.
This has to be some sort of joke. Your characters only "do" what you dictate. They don't have free will. They don't exist. Do I really have to spell this out???
@@SL2797 As someone who has friends who have maladaptive daydreaming and OCD, no, it is not just a joke.
"Not all writing is writing. Thinking, staring, researching, stressing, reading other people's books, reading your own book again, reading stuff that you've already written--all of that stuff is writing." This is so validating! Thank you so much for saying this!
Call The Book “Forever An Absolutely Remarkable Thing”. Not just because I’m actually quite proud of it, but it would give you that ‘FAART’ acronym you wanted so much.
Heck yeah
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Better yet: Forever A Remarkable Thing. Catchier, more cohesive, and you still get the "FART" acronym!
Lol
Further Absolutely Remarkable Things
Have you considered calling the sequel "More Light Than Heat"?
Pfft. He should just call it 'The Sequel'. Far better.
(Although my legitimate actual not even joking suggestion is that he calls it 'An Absolutely Remarkable Sequel')
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@@matthewgilpincom That would be silly and I kind of love it.
@@matthewgilpincom He should call it 'Another Absolutely Remarkable Thing' :D
I'm taking notes for my overly ambitious fanfic projects
The best kind of fanfiction!
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You are my favorite kind of human being.
Fanfic writers already have the "love your characters" part done.
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You have a break up and what could have been the worst day on earth turns into the best day because turns out your most favourite book ever will most definitely have a sequel! Love you, Hank
Glad to help! Sorry about your heart!
Ummm no! This is not real! I'll have a panic attack now! Oh God! Actual Hank read my comment😶😶😶😶😶😶😶aaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa
@@samragni8013 hope that you are okay
Lol yeah I am fine😄
It's funny that one Green brother has described his books as about "plot being interrupted by character" and the other says he started with plot and needed more character :)
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Writing in a non-linear fashion is the ABSOLUTE BEST. I do this all the time, and it keeps me motivated to actually make it to the cool scenes I've already written.
I like to do this as well, but my problem is that I don't always want to full in the gaps and it just stays unfinished...
Omg I would 100% read a John Green soccer novel
PLEASE WRITE A SOCCER NOVEL JOHN!
HARD SAME
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It is the only soccer novel I would read
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I find it deeply interesting that John seems to have a harder time talking about writing than Hank. Not that John isn’t good at talking about it but his answers are often “I just kinda sit down and do it”.
It’s a really cool case study to see two brothers do such a similar thing, one being kinda naturally talented and one having to work at it more in a structured way.
I also think it's a difference in how they think about things generally. Hank is more analytical, which leads him towards being more science and math focused, but also means that even in his creative ventures he is more process oriented, whereas John is more intuitive and feelings based, which means he doesn't think so much about the process of things, he just does them. I'm a more analytical person myself, which has made me shy away from creative ventures, but seeing Hank succeed in something outside of the rational realm has made me question whether I should give that sort of thing more of a chance
@@kevinwells9751 > I'm a more analytical person myself, which has made me shy away from creative ventures, but seeing Hank succeed in something outside of the rational realm has made me question whether I should give that sort of thing more of a chance
You may find creative pursuits really enjoyable! Doing art or writing can often feel a lot like problem solving. And it can be fun tackling it like that, particularly when you think of answers and apply them and see them work.
@@KatieWillems this! I've had my attempts at long form storytelling, most of it IS problem solving and making the bigger plot points connect with each other! And doing research and making sure the setting or certain plot points make sense!
So yeah, having an analytical mind does help with creative endeavours! It helps to be able to keep track of a list of sections and content you need to sort out, at least that's the way I see it
Loving seeing all these predominantly analytical people (who are typically made to believe they aren’t “artsy”) not only attempt but excel at creative endeavors and encouraging others to do the same! The whole right brain/left brain thing is nonsense; keep breaking barriers, Nerdfighters!
I think it has to do with the amount of practice you do, to a degree--Hank has done writing, don't get me wrong, but John's career is as an author and Hank's is more like 'all the jobs.' There is also arguably something magical about creating characters that can disagree with you. I do think a general difference is present in how they think about things, but I think it's more subjective than 'analytical' versus 'intuitive.' I certainly didn't start out as an intuitive writer but I've had to learn to be one in order to enjoy writing.
It is certainly encouraging though! I have always thought of writing as a hobby, but now I am more motivated to try to write a real novel!
I didn’t know I needed John’s soccer (football) novel. But I NEED it.
+ I would love to see this
Aria Literata TITLE: Teammates in Life and in Love
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I'm now stuck on my thesis right now and this video was unintentionally very helpful for me to see right at this exact moment, so thanks Hank!
Hank, I just want to throw you a quick thank you. I teach grade 8 English in Canada, and An Absolutely Remarkable Thing was the novel I chose for a class read-aloud this term. Both the students and I loved returning to your story every time we picked up the novel. Maybe less f-bombs in the sequel, alright?...ha.
What can I do to help other teachers do this?!
@@vlogbrothers We need to get Nerdfighters to band together and create some kind of bank of opinion-based and critical thinking questions to be explored in a classroom setting! The story is ripe for discussion about humanity, technology, society and the kinds of world-changing events that could unite or divide a people.
@@vlogbrothers My Librarian gf is always complaining about how great a book was, but because it has a real world number of F-bombs she can't put it on a shelf that the younger kids can access. Parents care more about an F-Bomb than sex in the other room, and way more than a violent death,
Writing a book -> lots of hours spent screaming at your computer for one beautiful result.
Got it.
Is it bad that I don’t really want a sequel? I thought the book wrapped up nicely.
You and NO ONE ELSE! Book 2 is a very different story.
@@vlogbrothers Well I'm still going to read the shit out of it. ;)
Highlander 2.... unnecessary.
@@Psy0psAgent Even more unnecessary than Titanic 2. And this was already so unnecessary that it didn't happen. I feel the Highlander should have learned from that.
Hey Cody, I'm not surprised but very happy to learn you're a Nerdfighter.
I'm currently 7 chapters into the audiobook, yelling text your girl!!!!! into my empty house and absolutely loving it!! Tysm Hank, and it's cool to know that there will be a sequel :)
can't wait for the sequel😍
Anushka Katiyar i cant wait for the Squeakqual
this is great, you guys are such wholesome people.
John, I LOVE your books, can you do a video about your inspiration for your books especially The fault in our stars, looking for Alaska, paper towns.
Yes, please! +++
Fabulous! As a writer, I could totally empathize with a lot of this. I've always written the exciting scenes first, and sometimes, my characters leave me tearing my hair out over decisions they make that I didn't plan. Being such a young writer is a struggle, because I look at my writing from even just a year ago, and I know they characters don't sound as real as the ones I write now. That's a fascinating sign of growth, but incredibly frustrating sometimes.
Great description of the writing process. I can relate to getting attached to certain scenes, only to find that they don't fit in when the time comes. I choose to honor the characters and go with the existing flow. I love your enthusiasm. Wishing you continued success with your writing.
I seriously appreciate the fact that you pointed out so many other things you're doing about the book (reading, researching, checking into other things) count towards the 'writing' part of it. I get at myself regularly if I'm trying to figure out HOW to write a scene because I'm not actually WRITING the scene. Cheers man.
Wimbley Wombleys All The Way Up: The Story of AFC Wimbledon by John Green
Hank, I absolutely loved your book. It was clear that it was such a labor of love, with so much thought and care and emotions about the entertainment industry, and I honestly have not stopped thinking about it since it's initial release. It is so clear that you love each of the characters, even when it's hard to love them for the mistakes that they have made. I can't wait for your sequel!
That one about writing the scenes you’re excited about was the most helpful for me. I’ve been working on my book for a couple years now on and off. I often have a specific scene I’m really excited about and want to write, but I don’t because I keep thinking that I need to stay with where I am in the story linearly. This has changed my life.
This has not changed your life at all. His advice is mostly wrong and contradictory. He is a poor writer. I am guessing like him you did not 'plot' your book. Now if you learn plotting... that might change your life.
I FELT THIS. I'm currently in the process of publishing my own book and I felt this.
the plotting retcon thing is SO SO REAL. also YES TO falling in love with your characters!! also... OMG I CANNOT WAIT FOR THE SEQUEL. (my review video for an absolutely remarkable thing is coming next week!)
I'm stuck writing my first novel right now and I just wanted to thank you for this video (I'll be sure to apply all the new advice I got when I write tomorrow!!!!)
Thank you Hank this is actually helpful for real!
That's what I was going for!!!
Recently listened to both AART and TATWD and I love how much of the Green brothers I see in these novels.
It is clear that they have not just come up with a good story and gone with it. I am super impressed with how they have brought their insight, expertise, and experience into these novels not only to entertain but to inform and express truth. TATWD has truly opened my eyes to what it might be like for someone living with chronic anxiety. Thank you brothers Green.
Hank, thank you so much for this advice. Its a great comfort to know a lot of the difficulties I'm having are normal and don't mean my story is a flop. I always thought I must be a bad wtiter because I didn't have all the details of the characters and the world to fill in my story as I began writing. But knowing its okay to start at bare bones, to go back and change things as you write, to work things out and decide things and come up with ideas as you go, and then going back and adding them. Well, it makes me feel a lot less alone.
Its kinda scary when you hear all this advice about "your characters needs to have all these things, your plot needs to have all these" etc, when you're just starting your story and can't possibly incorporate all that into your writing when you're just starting to write the story.
Thank you, Hank. I'm normally a very prolific writer, but these last few months have been a desert. Your words area good reminder of the joy and struggle of it all.
Best Hank video all year...
As a beginning writer, I have watched maybe hundreds of videos on writting and I thought they all said pretty much the same things. This one actually helped me. Thank you
No spoilers please.
It’s gonna be 10 days until the book becomes available in my library.
The video is spoiler free!!
"Good morning John, remember how I wrote a book." Best opening line of a vlogbrother video ever😎
(Edit: thank you so much to everyone who's liked this. I wasn't expecting it but that's the thing that makes nerdfighteria special)
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Yes
Your point on expertise really hits home for me. As a young writer, I always tried to write about subjects I knew nothing about. I just made things up as I went. Over the years, I've learned that life experience can be a great tool for my writing, and I've since tried to focus on writing in genres I know something about. Either that or setting stories in fictional worlds where I can make my own rules.
Love your advice about writing not having to be linear- write scenes that I have in my mind and I’m excited about.
I really appreciate how you and John (or John and you) have opened up the writing process for us aspiring storytellers. At least for me, your guys’ videos have helped to make the idea of writing a little less nebulous and terrifying. Thanks!
VLOGBROTHERS DEEP CUT ALERT: John actually *did* (start to) write a novel about soccer! :D
Titled "The Space," an excerpt from the book was released alongside John's first-ever story ("The Cat and the Mouse") as a PDF perk for 2014 P4A supporters.
It features hilarious dialogue; much to this Mountaineer's delight, it takes place in West Virginia; and as you'd expect from John, the writing itself is frequently gorgeous.
The opening is especially striking: "Duarte and I prepared for the AA District finals as we had for every game that season, in the steam tunnels beneath New Pine High School, the darkness complete except for the beam of our headlamps.... I told myself it was just another game, that life is long and soccer is short, but I could not shake the feeling that it might be the last time we’d play together. I did not mention this to Duarte, who was invisible to me except for the circular white light beaming from his forehead. In terms of the visible world at least, he was the light."
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Also: Fantastic video, Hank! Thank you! :D
This is amazing.
This is fantastic!! Thank you so much, resident vlogbrothers scholar
Sounds like there was more light than heat...
To the place
Agree about the importance of characters and, strangely, also had the same epiphany with 'plot versus characters'. I always thought plot came first but, while editing a book with two absorbing protagonists (doubling up on protagonists is a different video … ), realised only a third of the way through it's the changes in them which are keeping me reading. Great advice. Thank you.
"fall in love with your characters"
don't know if this will help with motivation to write my thesis, but i'll keep it in mind!
Lol your comment made me laugh XD good luck!
I love how this is so comprehensive yet so brief and useful.
There can never be too many sausage-making videos on the writing process. Thanks for making this, Hank. "If you focus on word count, you’re going to get more words; if you focus on story, you’re going to get more story" is already in my writing notes.
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Thanks to this video, I’ve created a “things to change” document for my dissertation to add to as I go through without getting sidetracked, and turns out it applies super well😄
thank you very much for answering my question!! ❤️❤️
Read your book in 24 hours, looking forward to the sequel. Writing that sequel seems hard. Like the first one was using Sci Fi to explore fame. But for the sequel do you continue on with that framing or do you use that universe to explain some other idea?! I have no idea what you are going to do and I am so excited.
Thank you for this, Hank! Most of the books I've tried to write were supposed to be purely historical but I always ended up stuck and losing confidence. Now I'm starting to write fantasy and I have more freedom with story and setting but I have so much reading to do. Fantasy novels and short stories, history books, myths and folklore, science, magic, psychology, books about writing, my old first drafts, etc. It's reassuring be reminded that I'm still working on writing even when I'm doing more reading than actual writing.
I know I'm astronomically late to this video but so many of the things you touch on are EXACTLY what I have been doing and you explain a better way so logically. THANK YOU
I would actually fully read a soccer novel by John, your passion for the sport is so incredible and I think you might be able to do it well!
Re-entering this space of youtube and feeling an overwhelming sense of peace and comfort. Thanks Hank! Also, I really needed this advice, so thanks for that too
Some of this stuff I knew already, but I like the idea of waiting to change past stuff until later. Keeping a note of what to fix when you're doing the revision is a great idea.
I actually managed to get hold of your book on sale at a trainstation in Germany one week ago! I have been looking everywhere to get it, and now I have it (in English of course). I'm so excited to finally read it! 🎊🎉
It's out in German too!
Oh my gosh, I'm so happy you mentioned writing linearly. That has 100% messed me up over and over again.
I first started watching VlogBrothers in 2007 and over the years I've gone through phases of watching every single video and other phases of watching a video occasionally if I have time to kill. One thing for certain is that I always come back. John and Hank have been a huge part of my life. This whole community that they've created feels like a home. I know they can't continue this forever, but I appreciate them so much for all the years. I hope they continue this for many, many years to come. They've helped me through some of the hardest times in my life. They're very important people to me, and they don't even know who I am. Just, thank you John and Hank. Thank you for being such good people in a ocean of darkness.
Thank you thank you thank you! I was feeling so guilty cause I hadn’t sat down to actually write. But that’s because I was reading TONS on how to better my writing, researching, expanding my thought process. Studying on how I failed on writing before and how to improve. More research, concept building and solidifying my story world. I was feeling annoyed cause I hadn’t actually written yet but by you saying that it makes my time feel worth while.
this is all good advice. Your point about character being more important than plot is _so_ true it hurts, and it took me too long to learn that.
Thank you for this. I feel with you on many things. Above all, falling in love with my characters... well, I consider them my children. I guess some people have them for friends, some for lovers... nevertheless, it is a beautiful feeling, thinking of my characters and weaving that story where they meet and interact, feel, struggle together and allow me to go through it all with them. So yes, love and passion works wonders and I'm happy I'm not the only person feeling it. And you don't give any needless technical advice, just hints for inspiration - I really appreciate that. Thank you again.
I'm glad we can have these videos from both of yall
I'm writing a script for a short play and the part of the video that talks about getting a certain amount of writing in per week caused alarm bells to go off in my mind because I haven't written anything in about 2 weeks now. Thanks for keeping me on my toes Hank.
OMG John writing a soccer novel is the best idea I've heard recently!!! I don't care about soccer (or car racing) but when John talks about it, I listen.
AHHHH MY QUESTION WAS IN THE VIDEOOOOOOOOO
Edit: thanks for the answer. I do get too caught up in trying to nitpick the story to make it continuous before it even needs to be continuous.
Thanks Hank!
I never thought about the "things to change" idea! That's really helpful!! Thank you Hank. :)
I am starting agent queries this week with two manuscripts at hand and I am *so nervous* even if I won't be physically face to face with people...
This was wonderful to watch and listen to, because it helped ease some of that and remind me that I can allow myself to be goofy with excitement for a while longer, hehe
Really good advice ! As an amateur writer, I agree with virtually all your points, from experience alone. Writing non-linearly, for instance, is actually helpful. About the only downside to it is keeping track where it will come in later, depending on whether you're doing chronological or non-chronological storytelling. I'd suggest anyone writing new chapters or just scenes or extended vignettes for their story always accompany these with brief notes (written in italics). When you don't know how to complete a whole chapter, etc., you can always go back, read what you wrote, then read the notes you left behind, and try to follow your earlier thoughts and ideas from there.
I love how you stress that "getting to know" your characters before you start plotting en masse is very important. Very well said. I always feel more confident elaborating a story when I have a handle on the fictional individuals I'm writing about. And that can take a while to gestate, as you try to mentally sketch these people, what their life stories up until then might be, their temperaments, personalities, beliefs... Neglecting characters isn't good for stories, unless you want a shallow story, even in an immersive setting or narrative.
Plot as constant retcon is officially the best piece of writing advice I have ever received. Thank you.
The ads for Neil Gaiman's masterclass say that you write the first draft, and then the second draft is about making it look like you meant to do that all along. So I'm pretty sure Hank's in good company here.
Funny thing, you got me through my science degree and now I’m writing people’s stories of health on my phd AND producing books. Busy times but I’m loving the writing process. Thanks for these tips.
Thank you Hank. I am currently in the process of writing my first novel and so to hear these things is great! Thanks.❤ keep going!!!
y'all. y'all, if he calls it An Absolutely Remarkable Sequel, then the initials will be AARS. We couldn't get FART to work out but maybe...... maybe we can get AARS.
But "An Absolutely Remarkable Sequel in your pants" really doesn't flow so well
Only, then John will never get to write his book, The Sequel!
I didn't know I needed a John Green soccer novel, and I do now! Nor did I realize this thing, where I get to a certain point and what my characters have in mind is better and more interesting than my outline, is more usual than I realized. My friends (and fellow writers) only sometimes get it. Also, as someone struggling to actually write a novel this is really helpful advice, thank you!
love the vid, hank! we know you’re working very hard, so please don’t feel the need to worry about updating us all the time on the sequel. take your time, we’ll be here :)
THANXXXX from my heart for this video, so good to know I am not alone with the challenges and approaches described! Yes its definitely my way to set to work so still a year to go🙂
As a junior high student, Huge fan of Vlogbrothers and a person who writes stories or books on an everyday basis, this video is Very Helpful!
I love how your name is spelled XAHK in Russian
Stayed up until two last night to finish it! Great job Hank.
This was the most helpful video I've ever seen on writing. I got so much out of this. Thank you!!
I would strongly recommend that you take a look at a story development program called Causality. It's mainly intended for screenplays, but the basic concept works just as well for novels. Even if you do not actually end up using it, just having seen some of the video tutorials about Causality will help you think about writing in a very different way. It makes so much sense to develop your story - its plot, themes, subtext, character arcs, et.c. - independently from writing the body text itself. Causality does this by forcing you to build your story out of well defined "beats", that simultaneously work as containers for your actual text, which you can just fill out as inspiration comes along. Just do a quick search for Causality, right here on UA-cam. You will not regret it.
I've read a lot of writing advice, and yours was among the best
Oh good. These are all thoughts I've already had so it is wonderful to hear a fantastic published author to have the same experiences in writing as I do!
Just found this! I'm in a really similar situation. For my first book (Unkillable Joe) I had no real process and I pantsed the whole thing. I got extremely lucky in that it's doing well, but for my second, I'm outlining, weighing character motivations, setting up the climax and all that... It feels like I'm having to educate myself all over again. Our current process if really similar but for me, a writing schedule is like a gym schedule. It should be there but super flexible. So you can try to get there by a certain time, but as long as you make it that day, you did your job. Or connect the two? By connecting writing to something I do a lot (like exercise) I get to think about what I'm about to write for an hour before, which really helps get me motivated. My two beans anyway...
Excellent vid btw! It was refreshing to hear someone cover the exact situation I was JUST dealing with (albeit this is an older video) Subbed. :)
Thanks for this wonderful Video and writing advice
Holy SHIT. A “things to change” folder is going to seriously change my workflow. every time I go back to edit a plot issue I drop off my routine for weeks. Thank you!
Great, punchy advice. I 100% agree about the non-linear writing I think having a skeletal overview of what'll happen by the end is important but the "moments" come to you, I suppose. I would contest the "write 1000 words a week" comment though - I think as long as you're keeping something alive in your mind to do with the story then it's fine. I'm a teacher so I have to write primarily with 6-week chunks.
Thanks for this advice! I really appreciate it as an aspiring writer, as a nerdfighter and as a big fan of your book!
This is the video I have been needing for a while now, thank you.
i just finished an absolutely remarkable thing... needless to say, i am considering getting a tiny carl tattoo
Bueno aquí va un comentario en español ggg pero quería decir que como escritora principiante es muy inspirador ver este video y escuchar a Hank muy emocionado. Me hace sentir motivada a seguir escribiendo, dejar mis inseguridades un poquito y acabar esa historia que estoy escribiendo. Es bonito tener una comunidad así 💖💖🥰 A todos los que se sienten abrumados al ver su historia no acabada, esta bien. Tú puedes, sigue intentándolo 💗💕✨
¡Espero que hayas seguido escribiendo! ¡Éxitos!
actually super helpful, as I am in the process of writing a book- linearly, plot-centric, and stuck in a rut because I’ve been too busy to write for the past few weeks.
I should set myself that 1000 word/week goal, starting now.
I'm writing my first novel right now and this is truly excellent advice. Thank you, Hank!
John, looking up from his laptop that he's furiously writing his soccer novel on: "Did you say something Hank?" *puff levels at maximum*
This was such a fun video! Made me feel really good about writing in general. Thanks Hank!
This great Hank, I want to go out and write now!
Amen to retconning. Constant for me, as ideas evolve as I'm writing and I realize I need to go back to make sure all the previous details line up with the new plan.
Yes yes yes yes yes! 8 things I have to how since I'm writing my first novel! Thank you so so much Hank :) That's the inspiration I needed
This is the most useful video on writing advice I have ever seen
Screech of agreement at (i) needing to keep the story in one’s mind and (ii) changing plot as the book continues and keeping track of what has to be changed - then changing it later on.
I would absolutely love to hear about the failed novel projects you worked on! Arin from Game Grumps did a few episodes about art he did when he was young and games that never saw the light of day and I think those are really inspiring for people who haven't completed something to their satisfaction yet.
For some scenes I need to be in a specific mood to write, to really feel them. So if I am having a really bad time for example a scene might come to me really vivid and I know I have to sit down and write that scene no matter where it is in the book. These are the best scenes I have in my book, because they feel real and alive like a diary entry.
This is great motivation, wish I'd watched it before writing my first book, I could have written it in half the time! Keep on writing!
Massive help, currently writing my first book and this really helped
There are some value points in this list!
Well done!