I watched a kid trying to solve a puzzle, but they lost some pieces and replaced them with pieces she was cutting out of some cardboard. Writing a novel is like assembling a puzzle, but the author has to create each piece before putting them together. This metaphor captures the complexity and creativity involved in novel writing. Of course, you can’t go into the nearest drug store and grab your own completed manuscript off the shelf. If it were that easy, everyone would be doing that! However, let’s delve into how these two processes are similar and distinct.
When crafting a novel, it’s essential to begin with a broad concept or theme, much like a puzzle starts with an image to guide its assembly. The writer envisions the story’s overarching narrative, the emotional tone, and the message they want to convey. This step is about understanding what the completed puzzle will look like. When an author enjoys creating characters and an exciting climax at the end, the puzzle begins with only a few pieces, but you already know where they fit. In puzzle-making, pieces are pre-cut and have a defined shape. In contrast, novel writing involves creating these pieces from scratch. Each chapter, scene, or character in a novel is akin to a puzzle piece. The writer crafts these components, ensuring they are compelling and fit within the larger narrative.
Placing puzzle pieces is a trial-and-error process, much like writing a novel. Writers often rearrange scenes, tweak characters, or revise plot points to make sure everything fits together seamlessly. This phase can be challenging, as it requires a keen eye for detail and narrative coherence. Every puzzle has only one correct solution, but a novel can evolve in myriad ways. Each writer brings their own unique perspective and imagination to their work, allowing for creative freedom and a one-of-a-kind journey. The end result is a truly unique reflection of their individuality.
