The Importance Of Adequate Research To Plot And Characterization

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• Basics , Bonnes Nouvelles , Writing
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We have already discussed the elements of plot and characterization earlier on in this article.

However, do we really know the importance of having some astute research behind the scenes, where it comes to working on these two key elements that go into the recipe of writing a novel?

Let’s take a look.

The Importance Of Research In Plot And Characterization

[caption id="attachment_1802" align="alignright" width="256"] It’s really important to have some solid research .[/caption]Letting your readers get a whiff of the actual setting. Take, for instance, you are writing a novel on crime. Now, this novel might take you to several different places in the country you are choosing to base your characters in, or even around the world.It’s really important to have some solid research into these places, thus, in order to give the reader an actual feel of the places you are describing. After all, the purpose of writing is to transport the reader to another place, right? Why not let them get a whiff of what the actual place is all about, then?Staying true to the facts. The last thing you want to do is to take the reader on a trip to someplace, and then botch up the facts. Remember, the reader out there is well read and so when you are describing a place that he or she might have been to and you get some facts wrong, you will not be creating a good impression.

So, if you’re setting your story in a place and you cannot visit it, at least make sure you get all the facts about that place right, through some pretty sound research. There are plenty of online resources that you can choose from. Make sure you use them well.

[caption id="attachment_1803" align="alignleft" width="256"] Winston Churchill[/caption]When you are writing non-fiction, it’s even more imperative you get the facts straight. If you’re writing a book about say, Winston Churchill, and you get a simple thing like the place of his birth wrong, that knowledgeable reader is going to want to put the book down straight away.The very reason he is reading the book is to gain some new and insightful knowledge, and if he finds even one mistake in your book, he will be led to believe there will be plenty others, and it is simply not worth his time to finish the book.The last thing you wish to do is to take your reader for granted.Whether you are writing fiction or non-fiction, it is absolutely imperative to ensure that you stick to the facts and the best possible way to do that is by doing some really meticulous research into your plot and your characterization.

You have to bear in mind, that even if you are writing a work of fiction, the story must be plausible. So, if you are writing a Young Adult fantasy that is set in outer space, you have to stick to certain facts or you will ensure that your story goes out of orbit.

Online Literary Critics To Help Hone Your Writing Career

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In the previous point, we have already discussed the importance of getting in touch with people like bloggers and celebrities, in lieu of the upcoming publication of your book.While that is a great idea, it can be an even better one to get the attention of a literary critic.This could be someone who writes for an important digital newspaper, or perhaps even a famous author who has several bestsellers to his or her credit.These people are looked on as literary gurus, and it would be well worth your while to ask them if they could read your work and perhaps offer some kind words in terms of an honest book review or perhaps even a few nice words on social media.

There are some ways you can get them to do this, although be warned that it is not all that easy because apart from getting their attention, your work has to be captivating enough to them for them to want to say a few good words in your favor.

How To Get The Notice Of Literary Critics Out There?

[caption id="attachment_1774" align="alignleft" width="256"] Approach them on social media.[/caption]Approach them on social media. You never know, if you’re lucky they might just ask you to send a copy of your work to them, and for the rest, of course, you will have to keep your fingers crossed.In the case of an editor of an online magazine or newspaper, try and walk into their office.The secretary might just politely tell you that Madam X has not got the time to meet with you.Take that in your stride; at least you tried to get the attention of the person who might be highly instrumental in taking your book to greater heights.Meet with famous authors at literary events. In the cases of famous authors, you will find that it might not be all that simple to get their attention, reclusive as they are.

Therefore, you might consider going to literary events where you will find them in attendance with a whole host of other authors.

You can approach them and ask them if you have a couple of minutes to spare. Of course, having a copy of your book in hand will be an added bonus.No matter what, ensure that you do your homework well before approaching literary critics. What you need to know is that there might be certain people that might be completely averse to the idea of reading your book, no matter how well intentioned you might be.For instance, if you are writing a YA (Young Adult) book, it would be well worth your while to approach a famous YA author.That will make their validation all the more important, since they are commenting on a work in their domain of expertise.Don’t simply give your book to every other critic. While it might not be a bad idea, it will be much better if you target them selectively.

In fact, this is one of the better ways you can promote your work online.