Ready to write your first novel? Find out what not to do in this episode.
Slow dialogue: 1:08
Explanations: 2:50
Fast dialogue: 15:09
Xavier: How’s your novel coming along?
Sara: It’s not. I abandoned it for now. I think I bit off more than I can chew. Now, I’m working on a short story.
Xavier: That sounds interesting. Who are the main characters?
Sara: I’m not sure yet. Character development is really important so I need to give the characters themselves some serious thought.
Xavier: Okay, tell me about the general plot. Is it an adventure, romance, horror story – what?
Sara: I haven’t decided that either.
Xavier: All right. What about the setting? Is it going to be set in the U.S.?
Sara: Hmm, that’s still up in the air, too. I’m thinking of writing a period story, but I’m not sure what time period to choose. That’ll help decide the actual setting.
Xavier: I’m guessing you haven’t decided the point of view of the story either, whether it’ll be told in the first person or third person, am I right?
Sara: You are. I know. I have a lot of think about.
Xavier: You’ve definitely got your work cut out for you.
Sara: I know. I’m just waiting for some inspiration.
Xavier: Good luck with that.

Script by Dr. Lucy Tse