Meredith Mansfield, Author

I had to get up in the wee hours this morning to make a couple of notes on my Weird Oz Story so I wouldn’t lose them. That’s actually good.

The times and places where ideas strike can seem strange. In the shower, washing the dishes, walking the dogs. A big one for me seems to be driving. That’s when the idea for my Weird Oz Story first came to me. Waking up with an idea is another good one. These are the times when my subconscious throws up the new ideas and solutions to plot problems that fuel (and sometimes) fix my stories. For me, these ideas will only turn up, though, when I’m actually spending some part of my day writing. If I’m not doing that, I can walk the dogs all day without turning up any ideas.

I learned some time ago to take inspiration when it comes and always write it down (or record it in some way) as fast as I can so I don’t lose it. I can always decide whether or not to use it later, but only if I remember what it is.

Last night, among other things, I think my subconscious gave me a piece of the puzzle. Maybe one of the things that’s been holding me back from making better progress on this story. Here’s hoping.