by Shutta Crum
Intention: that’s an important word—especially now as we celebrate the month of Janus (the god of beginnings) and when we make our resolutions, or we begin Storystorm month. But, like Janus, intention is a two-faced concept. It makes all the difference in the world—and, ultimately, none. Let me explain . . .
It’s a necessary word when I ask myself, what do I intend to get accomplished today—in addition to my picture book idea for Storystorm? When I write, intention is critical. Crafting characters, I need to know what each one’s intentions are so I can intertwine them and build the overall structure of the story, scene by scene. But how do you get a grasp on fictional character intentions? Well . . . first, you start off simply assigning what seems like the obvious intention for that character based on the his/her background and a sketchy idea for a plot. Let’s say your main character needs to get home because his father is gravely ill. That’s his primary intention.
Ok. You start writing. His path crosses with others who prevent him from hurrying home, and you make him choose between two honorable tasks which undermines his intention of doing that. (You’re using all the good things you’ve learned about plotting.) Then suddenly, you get the urge to have your main character turn onto a path you hadn’t expected him to take. This is good! You should be open to serendipity and surprise while you write. Now, you slowly begin to discover that your main character’s real intention is not just to get home to see his father, but to get home and make sure the father’s will gets changed in your main character’s favor before the old man croaks.
What I have come to understand is that clarifying intention happens through a process of discovery; the more you write the clearer all your characters’ intentions become. And this may not happen until you’ve written a couple of drafts. Once the true intentions of your characters are revealed you can begin to honestly revise. Yes, it can be a lot of work wandering around lost for a good deal of time to get clear on intention. But it is clarity of intention that will then allow you to lead your reader to the heart of your story and to create a riveting plot. And while it’s important for you, the author, to be clear about intention it may be that you will want to obscure that intention intentionally for your reader—depending upon the age of your audience.
In many picture books for very young readers/listeners we need to know right away what the goal of the hero/heroine is. Lizard has to get the birthday cake safely to the party despite the hot sands of the desert. The child has lost polka-dot baby and can’t go to sleep without it, etc. But often it is the slow reveal of multi-faceted intention that’s critically important to sustain a reader’s attention. It’s the surprises, the freshness, the sudden turns, and the realistic and humble bumbling toward enlightenment that can entice and keep a reader reading. This then leads to the satisfying ending that either rewards or thwarts your characters’ intentions.
Finally, let me say that all this butt-in-chair work on intention is critical. But it’s also, ultimately, not important. But-but-but you’ve just spent all this time getting to know intention—and now we have an about-face! (Hey there, Janus! Or, “embrace the ambiguity,” as writer Uma Krishnaswami says.)
What’s going on? Well, when your book is out, your poem published, your play performed, your music sung, or your artwork viewed, intention—like an untrustworthy friend—takes a scamper. Whatever you, as the creator of your work, intended your creation to do does not matter much. All that’s important is the perception and personally altered conception of it by your audience.
I’ve gotten reviews that made me scratch my head and say, “Oh! Is that what I wrote?” I had no idea. And that is okay!
Enjoying art is a personal experience. Your overall intentions as a creator should, rightly, not dictate how your art is taken in by the art lover. The audience can, and does, internalize your work. Readers/listeners/viewers will compare it against a multitude of life experiences and bases of knowledge—whatever the age of those art appreciators. This is good. Art is not static. It’s a reenergizing force that zooms onward and outward to become . . . who knows? It takes on a life of its own—regardless of whatever you intended your work to do. And isn’t that wonderful?
Shutta Crum is the author of several middle-grade novels and many picture books, poems and magazine articles, as well as an oft-requested presenter and speaker. THUNDER-BOOMER! was an ALA and a Smithsonian “Notable Book.” MINE! was reviewed by the N.Y. Times as “a delightful example of the drama and emotion that a nearly wordless book can convey.” Her books have made Bank Street College lists as well as state award lists. MOUSELING’S WORDS (2017) and a reprint of the Kentucky-based SPITTING IMAGE (2018) are her latest books. WHEN YOU GET HERE, a collection of poems for adults, will be published in 2020. More info: www.shutta.com.
Shutta is giving away a picture book critique.
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785 comments
Comments feed for this article
January 2, 2020 at 7:10 am
angkunkel
What a wonderful post! I love how you end with creations in the hands of the reader (as they should be). Thanks for your wisdom, Shutta.
January 2, 2020 at 10:42 am
Jaclyn
Thank you for this insightful post! And the video was adorable thanks for sharing.
January 2, 2020 at 1:40 pm
Shutta Crum
Don’t ya just love those babies and books!!! Thanks.
January 2, 2020 at 12:28 pm
akawriter
💛 “Art is not static”
Thank you for the post.
January 2, 2020 at 8:11 pm
karammitchell
Great post! I don’t spend enough time chatting with my characters and getting to know their intentions toward my story.
January 2, 2020 at 7:11 am
Linda Mitchell
I love Thunder-Boomer! And, intention is something I’m taking to my writing desk today. Thank you!
January 2, 2020 at 1:41 pm
Shutta Crum
So glad you love Thunder-Boomer! We lived on a farm for 27 years. Miss it, now. Hugs.
January 2, 2020 at 7:16 am
steveheron
Day two: My story idea is about a Gnu and animal rescue.
January 2, 2020 at 7:27 am
Kellie
What a timely post. Just yesterday (no word of a joke) I received feedback from a critique buddy on a WIP asking me what the intention of my MC was. I had no idea – and no idea how to go about working it out. Now, I think I know what step to take next.
January 2, 2020 at 1:43 pm
Shutta Crum
Great timing!!!
January 2, 2020 at 7:27 am
reluctantspy
Actually, I do some of my best creative work while riding my bike, walking my dog, or exercising at the gym. Butt in chair is only one of my steps.
January 2, 2020 at 7:28 am
thecrowsmap
Thank you for this comprehensive look at intention, from the writer and characters to the reader.
January 2, 2020 at 7:31 am
Phaea Crede 💀🏴☠️⚔️ (@PhaeaCrede)
This is core to the writing process – and honestly, life – working very hard with the intention of letting it all go! Thanks Shutta and Tara 🙂
January 2, 2020 at 8:39 am
michelemeleen
Well said!
January 2, 2020 at 7:34 am
Joy
Thanks for sharing! This is so true. It’s one of the most interesting things about art to me — that tension between what the artist “meant” and what the audience understood.
January 2, 2020 at 7:36 am
Sarah A. Hetu-Radny
Oooooo intention… I struggle with this…my CPs frequently pick up on something I did NOT intend but which has sunk its teeth into my current revision and won’t let go unless I revise, revise, revise!
January 2, 2020 at 7:43 am
Kathy Erskine
It’s hard for us impatient types, but very true that we have to sit with our characters, observe them, talk with them before we really know who they are.
January 2, 2020 at 7:45 am
tanyakonerman
“Art is not static”…what a great way to look at a manuscript as it blooms over time as well!
January 2, 2020 at 7:50 am
teacherwriteracker
Thank you for this post. I do find myself focusing the intention as I write. Today I will focus on character and intentions and see where they lead.
January 2, 2020 at 7:52 am
Lauri Fortino
Thanks for the reminder that it’s okay to let our ideas branch off in directions we had not originally intended!
January 2, 2020 at 7:56 am
Kelly Jaques
Thanks so much Shutta! I so loved Mouseling’s Words!
January 2, 2020 at 1:44 pm
Shutta Crum
Thank you! I call it my auto-mouse-ography. The true story of my coming to love books. HAH!
January 2, 2020 at 5:27 pm
Katie Grow Allen
For me, I am thinking not only about my intentions for an individual work but my intentions as a writer over all. What do I want to contribute to the world throughout my lifetime? In both, as you say, what I intend and what is actually achieved may not be the same 🙂
January 2, 2020 at 8:00 am
kiwijenny
I love your name Shutta Crum. Thanks for giving me a new way to think.
January 2, 2020 at 1:47 pm
Shutta Crum
Thank you!
January 2, 2020 at 8:00 am
Laurie
I love this advice! It is extremely helpful when editing. Thank you
January 2, 2020 at 8:03 am
kaleegwarjanski
Great advice. Intention is important on all levels. And in many aspects of life, not just writing. Thanks!
January 2, 2020 at 8:03 am
tinamcho
Wow, Shutta, a good picture book lesson on intentions. Thank you!
January 2, 2020 at 8:05 am
sbfineclayman
thanks for the tips!
January 2, 2020 at 8:14 am
sequinsue
Thank you for a great post
January 2, 2020 at 8:16 am
Dee Knabb
Thanks for sharing your wonderful thoughts on intentions, Shutta. I love your insight about experimenting with your story leads to unexpected surprises.
January 2, 2020 at 9:48 am
Rebekah Hoeft
“What I have come to understand is that clarifying intention happens through a process of discovery; the more you write the clearer all your characters’ intentions become.”
I wander and get lost and finish stories rarely, maybe because I’m not thinking through intention? These words might help give purpose to my wanderings!
January 2, 2020 at 1:41 pm
Shutta Crum
I hope so Rebekah. Hang in there!
January 2, 2020 at 8:19 am
Poppy Wrote
I really enjoyed the contemplation about how art is a personal experience based on a multitude of (personal) experience.
January 2, 2020 at 8:23 am
Celeste Bocchicchio-Chaudhri
Thank you!
January 2, 2020 at 8:26 am
Jen Jarson (jjarson1)
Thank you!
January 2, 2020 at 8:27 am
Brian Gonsar
Thanks Shutta! I enjoyed the “character needs to get home an ill father” example.
January 2, 2020 at 8:27 am
Jeannie Whelan Santucci
What I take from this is intentions are basically the beginning of the journey on the road to the ultimate story. Each reader coming to that story from a different angle really resonated with me. Thank you, Shutta!
January 2, 2020 at 8:32 am
Mary A Zychowicz
This is a great lesson in perspective. Gives some food for thought. Thank you for these insights Shutta. I love your books!
January 2, 2020 at 8:33 am
Meli Glickman
I intend to remember this wisdom about intention for the times when I write and edit. Thank you for these insights!
January 2, 2020 at 8:33 am
makz5650
This is a great lesson in perspective. Gives some food for thought. Thank you for these insights Shutta. I love your books!
January 2, 2020 at 8:36 am
Johnell
This sparked an idea for me. Thank you.
January 2, 2020 at 8:37 am
debobrienbookscom
As an author illustrator I am frequently drawn to a book because of the art
January 2, 2020 at 5:24 pm
Janice Woods
Oh, so eye-opening. I clearly need to be more intentional about my character’s intentions! 🤨
January 2, 2020 at 8:40 am
kaeltudor
Loved this post! What a fantastic read!
January 2, 2020 at 8:43 am
Becky H
I struggle with External and Internal goals and this very much helped me – from now on I shall think of them as the ‘obvious’ intention and then explore the ‘real’ intentions.
January 2, 2020 at 8:46 am
Kathi Morrison-Taylor
Thanks for this! My dad, an abstract artist, tried to drive this message home for me but still sometimes it’s hard to accept your readers/viewers interpretations!
January 2, 2020 at 8:46 am
coachhays
Thanks for the excellent word, “intention”, for our writer’s toolbox.
January 2, 2020 at 8:49 am
Robin Perkins
I often think of those twists as distractions from my work. I’m going to experiment now and see where that takes me. Thanks Shutta!
January 2, 2020 at 1:49 pm
Shutta Crum
I love this…yes. Don’t think of them as distractions. Jot them down, play with them, see where they lead.
January 2, 2020 at 8:53 am
Betsy Parkinson
Setting an intention for each day was a resolution this year. This post is lovely.
January 2, 2020 at 8:54 am
Shari Della Penna
Thanks for your important message. Perception really is in the eye of the beholder, writer, reader, or listener!
January 2, 2020 at 8:54 am
Joana Pastro
What a great post, Shutta! So interesting to register creator’s intentions versus audience’s interpretations, and probably one of the most fascinating aspects of art. Off to ponder! Thanks!
January 2, 2020 at 1:49 pm
Shutta Crum
Thank you Joana! Did you see the video at the end? Hugs.
January 2, 2020 at 9:02 am
lmconnors
Very insightful! Thank you.
January 2, 2020 at 9:03 am
Sallye O'Rourke
Love these thoughts on intention! I’ve been trying to be more intentional with my life as I’ve gotten older, while also accepting and valuing the unexpected.
January 2, 2020 at 9:05 am
authorjanetparkinsonbryce
Wow! Love this post. It’s amazing how situations change in a story, as I write. Thanks for this post!
January 2, 2020 at 9:05 am
me
I like where this is leading. Thanks, Shutta.
January 2, 2020 at 9:08 am
A. P. Alessandri
This was great–thank you!
January 2, 2020 at 9:10 am
Lisa L Furness
Love this post about intention…Art takes on a life of its own once you put it out into the world.
January 2, 2020 at 9:11 am
Rick Starkey
Thanks for sharing this. I think it’s amazing that art, of any kind, can be perceived differently by each person based on life experiences. And the cool thing about it? That perception can change as we do.
January 2, 2020 at 1:50 pm
Shutta Crum
Yes!
January 2, 2020 at 9:16 am
Julie Reich
It’s so true that what you intend is not always what readers perceive–and that they might perceive something you didn’t intend. Thanks for the reminder!
January 2, 2020 at 9:18 am
Rebecca
I am working through this at the moment–not yet being able to clarify my character’s intention because I’m still getting in his head. But as I write, I know the intention will come. Thanks for a great post!
January 2, 2020 at 9:18 am
orchardka
Thank you, Shutta. This line really spoke to me: “Yes, it can be a lot of work wandering around lost for a good deal of time to get clear on intention.” I’ve told myself before that maybe my first few drafts are just for me to get to know the characters–and now I know it’s to understand their intentions as well!
January 2, 2020 at 9:19 am
kswemba
Thank you for taking the time to write your post! I enjoyed reading about the journey of intent. It’s important to know why our characters are doing what they’re doing. I also can see how readers pick up on things that maybe we didn’t see. It’s true that each perspective is different, and what one person sees or comes away with can be different than another.
Thanks again!
January 2, 2020 at 1:51 pm
Shutta Crum
You’re welcome.
January 2, 2020 at 9:19 am
Kathy Halsey
Hi Shutta, writing to find intention before we revise is what I’m doing right now! Great post.
January 2, 2020 at 9:19 am
Jenny
This is a great reminder that a pb is a collaboration between the author, illustrator, AND reader.
January 2, 2020 at 9:21 am
Lindsey Hobson
Great article! Thank you for this opportunity!
Lindsey Hobson
January 2, 2020 at 9:21 am
Stephen S. Martin
I intend for my character to exist in the best book ever !
January 2, 2020 at 9:21 am
yangmommy
Marvelous post about intention & great reminder that a good tale takes multiple drafts to create.
January 2, 2020 at 9:21 am
Jane Heitman Healy
Shutta, thank you for the delightful video and the good advice. I’m a pantser, and it takes me awhile to find my character’s intention. What you tell me is that it’s ok and to keep going. Thank you!
January 2, 2020 at 1:52 pm
Shutta Crum
Don’t you just adore those baby reviewers!!! Had so much fun making that vid.
January 2, 2020 at 9:21 am
Andrea Mack
Wow! These are wise words I need to revisit several times as I continue on this year’s writing journey. Thank you for taking the time to share your thoughts.
January 2, 2020 at 9:24 am
Lori Sheroan
To create a work that goes out into the world and speaks to a reader’s heart language must be a special type of magic. Thank you for this inspiration!
January 2, 2020 at 9:25 am
Joan Longstaff
I like how you have said that when the story is out there, the reader may not see exactly what you have seen, or meant to show … I sometimes find this reflected by people in my critique group and really worry about it – maybe I should reflect more on this and consider whether what they are getting from the story may not be quite what I intended but is valid nonetheless. Thanks for sharing.
January 2, 2020 at 9:28 am
hannahhudsonwrites
Great post! Thank you.
January 2, 2020 at 9:28 am
iefaber
Great Post! My first day and first year with Storystorm! Thanks for this opportunity and inspiration!
January 2, 2020 at 9:29 am
candicewolff
I think intention is the reason I struggled to revise a story I wrote a few years ago. It seemed to change somewhere between one draft and another until it was no longer cohesive. This made me wonder what might happen if I spent some time thinking about my character’s intention before looking at it again. Thank you!
January 2, 2020 at 9:30 am
Robin Wiesneth
Great reminder. All artistic efforts benefit from a declared intention. Thanks for the reminder.
January 2, 2020 at 9:30 am
beckylevine
Thanks for the reminder that wandering is good!
January 2, 2020 at 9:31 am
ofmariaantonia
I like to outline, but I always give my characters enough room to surprise me. And they always do surprise me!
January 2, 2020 at 9:31 am
BRUCE C BENSON
How true this is about intention, especially the longer works. The more you write, the character, for some brief instances “shows” you what they will do. It’s scary but wonderful at the same time. Unfortunately, it lasts but a minute. You say to yourself, “Where did that come from?” And you continue writing.
January 2, 2020 at 1:54 pm
Shutta Crum
Make note of it! And when you’re stuck go back to those ideas that came out of left field.
January 2, 2020 at 9:33 am
Tara Hannon
Love this post. And I love when the intention of my writing evolves the way mentions above. Great post!
January 2, 2020 at 9:33 am
Daniele Arndt
Wow! I never thought about intention in that way! This was amazing to read! Thanks!
January 2, 2020 at 9:34 am
Angela De Groot
Wow, this is brilliant. Thank you for the reminder to start with a character’s intention and to see where that leads.
January 2, 2020 at 9:34 am
Jolene Ballard Gutiérrez
Great post, Shutta! Lots to think about as I StoryStorm this morning.
January 2, 2020 at 9:35 am
Andrea MacDonald
Delightful concept that really turns things on its head for me!
January 2, 2020 at 9:36 am
laurimacey
Someone (I wish I could remember who) once wrote, “the creation, once created, develops a life of its own. Separate and distinct from that of its creator.” This post is a great reminder to put it out there and let go of it. It will find its own way of being in the world.
January 2, 2020 at 9:37 am
Sherri Jones Rivers
A unique perspective with which to start the new year. I intend to follow through with this idea in my writing. Thanks.
January 2, 2020 at 9:45 am
rimna
A processs of discovery – something I’ll keep in mind as I write.
January 2, 2020 at 9:45 am
Writer on the run
Shutta,
Always enjoy your perspective and insights. Intention is something that has evolved for me, and surprised me. Thanks for inspiration to ponder all of this!
January 2, 2020 at 9:46 am
authorlaurablog
I loved teaching about Janus and the challenge of focusing on the future while keeping the past in mind. It’s what our characters need to do as well.
January 2, 2020 at 9:47 am
Cathy Lentes
Thank you, Shutta. I always find your advice helpful.
January 2, 2020 at 9:49 am
Sheri aradovich
A new way of looking at this creating stories and discovering my intention when I start to write and what happens as a I revise and rewrite. My intention changes and thank you for your perspective.
January 2, 2020 at 9:49 am
mypetopia
I intend to think about my character’s intentions while writing my story. Thanks for the insights!
January 2, 2020 at 9:51 am
alisongoldberg
Thanks for this post!
January 2, 2020 at 9:51 am
jcobooks
“…the more you write the clearer all your characters’ intentions become…” this is true for me. Sometimes, I unintentionally discover this! It’s kind of magical, isn’t it!?
January 2, 2020 at 9:54 am
Franny G
“The more you write the clearer your characters’ intentions become.” You’re so right!
January 2, 2020 at 9:57 am
Melissa Chupp
I think I am missing the intention in some of my manuscripts. Finding it will help fill in some gaps. Thank you!
January 2, 2020 at 10:00 am
Cathy Ballou Mealey
Teasing apart a character’s external purpose and internal truth – the intention of their quest – so important to the process! Thanks for sharing your insights Shutta!
January 2, 2020 at 10:02 am
Riya
Love the concept that art belongs as much to the audience as the creator.
January 2, 2020 at 10:03 am
Jessica Kulekjian
Thank you, Shutta! I have a few stories that got lost in the weeds and your post helped me see that the characters were just surprising me or helping me to clarify the intention. Onward and outward! Love this.
January 2, 2020 at 10:03 am
Mary Worley
“It can be a lot of work wandering around lost for a good deal of time to get clear on intention.” So true! Loved the book reviewers, too. Thanks for including that. 🙂
January 2, 2020 at 10:04 am
Mary Warth
Thank you Shutta. I like the idea of “multi-faceted intention” as the story develops.
January 2, 2020 at 10:05 am
Jennifer Kay
I got stuck at the 3/4 point of my middle grade WIP because I couldn’t find the right ending. Had to sticky note plot and let the story simmer for months until I figured out the true character intention so the ending worked.
January 2, 2020 at 10:05 am
Elizabeth Saba
Thank you Shutta! I appreciate your post!
January 2, 2020 at 10:06 am
Joyce Schriebman
Sounds like a plantser–the perfect blend of a pantser and a plotter. Thanks for this terrific post!
January 2, 2020 at 10:07 am
Susie
Thanks, Shutta. I always enjoy hearing what you have to say.
January 2, 2020 at 10:07 am
Janie Reinart
You are so right that art takes on a life of its own.😊 Happy New Year and happy writing.
January 2, 2020 at 10:08 am
Carrie Charley Brown
Thank you, Shutta!
January 2, 2020 at 10:09 am
Matt Forrest Esenwine
I know what it means to read a review of a book and be surprised at what I was thinking when I wrote it – because the reviewer seems to be able to discern more than I! Thanks, Shutta.
January 2, 2020 at 10:13 am
audiencedog
I like thinking about the two-faced God!
January 2, 2020 at 10:13 am
Deb Sullivan
What an interesting perspective on a character’s intention – very helpful Shutta!
January 2, 2020 at 10:13 am
Cedar Pruitt
Thank you, Shutta! I love the discovery you describe.
January 2, 2020 at 10:14 am
Penny Parker Klostermann
The video was the yummy icing on the Cake of Intention! Thanks!
January 2, 2020 at 10:15 am
Judy Shemtob
Your intentions were clear here, Shutta, just as they were in A Family for Old Mill Farm. My characters thank you.
January 2, 2020 at 10:15 am
Jennifer Weisse
Very interesting. Thank you!
January 2, 2020 at 10:16 am
debbiearnn
I’ve just finished the first year of my journey to become a published writer. I have a manuscript of sorts. Thinking about my characters intentions is a great angle to take as I work on refining my story. Thanks for that!
January 2, 2020 at 10:16 am
ryanrobertsauthor
I intend to ponder more on intention
January 2, 2020 at 10:17 am
Darlene Koppel
Great Post – Characters and intention. Thank you!
January 2, 2020 at 10:17 am
Judy Palermo
I love this! And it underscores the subjectivity of art.
January 2, 2020 at 10:18 am
Polly Sena Renner
Thank you, Shutta, for your inspiration, and congrats on your books!
January 2, 2020 at 10:19 am
Susan Johnston Taylor
Great advice! Thanks.
January 2, 2020 at 10:20 am
kimpfenn
Finding the emotional part of a character’s intention can be the hardest part. Thank you for the reminder of that important character development for the plot and layers!
January 2, 2020 at 10:22 am
Arlene Schenker
Shutta, thank you so much for enlightening me about intention. It is something that I had not focused on the way that you suggested.
January 2, 2020 at 10:23 am
Krista Harrington
This advice will help me think into my characters more deeply.
Thank you, Shutta!
January 2, 2020 at 10:23 am
Angie
Wow, great strategies! I do know that being intentional (in setting goals, writing, planning) is essential. But I love that we need to listen to the characters and let them do the unexpected. The surprises are so much fun! Thanks for sharing!
January 2, 2020 at 10:23 am
Sarah Tobias
I love the way you build us up to know our characters to see their intentions so that they are strong and full and then remind us that the eyes, minds, and lives of other may see it differently when they read it. That is part of the beauty of life. A lesson we learn about ourselves and about others when we are lucky enough to hear their perspective on things. Yet another reason that books and reading make us better humans who are compassionate and empathetic.
January 2, 2020 at 10:24 am
Melanie Ellsworth
I’ve written down, “slow reveal of multi-faceted intention” – what a wonderful way to say it, Shutta!
January 2, 2020 at 10:24 am
Judy Bryan
Thank you for these wise words, Shutta!
January 2, 2020 at 10:26 am
Darcee Freier
Thanks for a clear explanation of a murky subject! I will write PBs with new and clearer intention.
January 2, 2020 at 10:26 am
debbiemccue
Great post, filled with helpful suggestions. I will be looking at my current work in progress with a focus on the characters’ intentions. I’m looking forward to reading WHEN YOU GET THERE. Congratulations!
January 2, 2020 at 10:28 am
ciaraoneal
This post is definitely a challenge for me. I want to write my story, send it through a few rounds of line edits, and call it brilliance! I hate it when my incredible critique partners find flaws. (They are so good!) Or, they tell me I need to put in revision edits like what is written about here. But this is the kind of work that makes a story great.
January 2, 2020 at 10:28 am
Laura Sassi
This post really resonated with me. I’m going to be pondering my character’s intentions and sub-intentions all day. Thank you!
January 2, 2020 at 10:29 am
mlflannigan
Thank you Shutta!
January 2, 2020 at 10:32 am
Carole Calladine
Intention. A word whose meaning packs quite a wallop. Thanks for sharing. And the story goes on.
January 2, 2020 at 10:33 am
Gail Atherley
Very helpful way to analyze my own writing and help deepen and define my characters. The concept of intention will also help improve my critiquing for others in my group. The video was a delight. How wonderful to see all the ways to truly choose a book that satisfies.
Thank you, Shutta!!
January 2, 2020 at 10:34 am
Christian Lathom-Sharp
Thanks for this. Art is in the eye of the deceiver. Something like that.
January 2, 2020 at 10:34 am
Sylvia Mary Grech
Great post! Thank you!
January 2, 2020 at 10:34 am
Lori Ann Mortensen
Great post, Shutta! Now I don’t feel so bad about all my literary writing wanderings.
January 2, 2020 at 10:35 am
Amy Cory
What a fantastic post! There is so much great food for thought and I know I’ll be re-reading again and again. Thanks!
January 2, 2020 at 10:36 am
Aimee
I’ve always loved the word intention… but now I love it even more. Thanks for the wisdom.
January 2, 2020 at 10:36 am
Jellybean
I like that your post includes a surprise twist!
January 2, 2020 at 10:36 am
Becky Shillington
This is brilliant, Shutta, and explains why it takes so many drafts to get a picture book “just right.” Thank you so much!
January 2, 2020 at 10:36 am
kirsticall
Intention is a really good word for the year 2020–in writing and in life!
January 2, 2020 at 10:41 am
Daryl Gottier
Thank you, there’s plenty to think about here.
January 2, 2020 at 10:42 am
judyrubin13
Thank you, Shutta. I enjoyed reading about the two faces of intention, especially noting the twists and turns intention might take, with the ultimate reinterpretation by readers.
January 2, 2020 at 10:42 am
Robin Brett Wechsler
Lots to think about. Thank you, Shutta!
January 2, 2020 at 10:44 am
fspoesy
Thanks for the reminder of such an important facet of storytelling.
January 2, 2020 at 10:45 am
gayleckrause
Love the idea of a character’s wandering path. Great advice on intention. 😉
January 2, 2020 at 10:45 am
Damon Dean, SevenAcreSky
I’ve seriously never considered how vital the role of intention is in a character’s story, and how critical it is to reader discovery. Wow, what insightful advice. Thanks Shutta…
January 2, 2020 at 10:46 am
Maureen Tai
I love the idea of the protagonist’s intention as being a lodestar, guiding the writer towards an ultimately satisfying conclusion but yet allowing for creative and surprising diversions along the way. Thank you for sharing this, I will try it out on my current and to-be manuscripts. I too am a big fan of Uma Krishnaswami, having met her in Hong Kong when I volunteered at the youth lit festival here some years ago, so I was warmed to see her name in your article.
January 2, 2020 at 10:47 am
ginaperry2013
Excellent post regarding intention and writing – thank you. My biggest takeaway was the idea of rewriting to find those layers of character – I know it, but needed the reminder!
January 2, 2020 at 10:48 am
Colleen Owen Murphy
Although I have not had the good fortune of having any books published, I have definitely had my poetry interpreted differently than how I intended it to be. Then I have to reread what I wrote to see how that interpretation could come about. Sometimes I get it. LOL.
Thank you for making think more about intention – what a great word!
January 2, 2020 at 10:49 am
Jill Friestad-Tate
It is important to remember that the reader gets to determine intention. A valuable reminder as it is hard when you believe your work is misunderstood. Thanks!
January 2, 2020 at 10:52 am
Debra Kempf Shumaker
“Art is not static.” So true. Thank you for a great post!
January 2, 2020 at 10:52 am
allegore
This is so great. Thanks, Shutta!
January 2, 2020 at 10:53 am
DaNeil Olson
I love this statement: “Enjoying art is a personal experience.” So often, we forget that, ultimately, reading is for enjoyment. Thank you for your insightful post.
January 2, 2020 at 10:58 am
Tina H
Interesting post, thank you! I’m going to print it out to re-read and highlight for my reference binder 🙂
January 2, 2020 at 10:58 am
Lori Dubbin
You’ve helped us look at writing and art from both sides. I also love the video you included at the end of your post.
January 2, 2020 at 10:59 am
Mia Geiger
Thank you for this intriquing post!
January 2, 2020 at 11:01 am
Amber McPherson
One thing I have found while writing is that sometimes a character develops itself. When I started writing, I had the intentions of one of my characters to be a bad guy. As I started to write him and develop him, it surprised me to find out that he definitely was not a bad guy. I laugh now thinking what I first intended him to be. Writing is a beautiful, crazy world!
January 2, 2020 at 11:05 am
Lisa Riddiough
Thank you, Shutta. Great post!
January 2, 2020 at 11:08 am
shannonlhall
Intention. Oh boy! Let’s see where this leads us today. I suspect some things shall be revealed in my WIP today. Thanks for this!
January 2, 2020 at 11:08 am
Latasha Vernon
Thanks for this food for thought! Here’s to writing intentionally.
January 2, 2020 at 11:10 am
shannonlhall
Intention. Oh boy! Let’s see where this one leads. I suspect some things shall be revealed in my WIP today. Thanks for this!
January 2, 2020 at 11:13 am
Glenda Roberson
I have mostly been a panster, but lately have been thinking about internal and external goals of my MC, and also internal and external conflicts. This helps me write with more intention. Thanks for the great message!
January 2, 2020 at 11:13 am
Kathy Trudell
First steps into developing several rough draft stories and your suggestions about intention’s importance in plot will be whispering in my ear as I venture forward in serious pursuit of a worthy manuscript. As always, thanks for your guidance.
January 2, 2020 at 11:13 am
Anne Appert
Thank you for this post! I definitely need to bring intention with me when writing. Looking forward to seeing what this information does to my writing today!
January 2, 2020 at 11:14 am
Katie Giorgio
Thank you for this inspiration.
January 2, 2020 at 11:14 am
June Sengpiehl
What an illuminating post. This is very helpful for all of us.
January 2, 2020 at 11:16 am
Carrie Pearson
You are a masterful teacher, Shutta. Big heart to you.
January 2, 2020 at 11:17 am
Andria Rosenbaum
I intend to put your advice to good use!
Thanks for sharing, Shutta
January 2, 2020 at 11:18 am
Chelle Martin
Thanks, Shutta. Interesting article.
January 2, 2020 at 11:19 am
pathaap
Great post on intention, Shutta. So important to know this when writing any story!
January 2, 2020 at 11:19 am
Sharon E Langley
Thank you for this post. I intend to prioritize my work as a writer daily. So far this year, I’m doing just that.
January 2, 2020 at 11:19 am
Hollie Wolverton
I recently read Big Magic by Elizabeth Gilbert, and this post reminded me of what I loved about that book – it matters, it doesn’t matter. It’s yours, it’s not yours.
January 2, 2020 at 11:19 am
Alice Fulgione
Loved this post! Thanks for the reminder to check the intentions of our characters!
January 2, 2020 at 11:20 am
cynthiahm
Thank you for shining a light on the slow reveal and the twists and turns of a characters’ intention.
January 2, 2020 at 11:20 am
Heather Stigall
awesome post! I’m off to work on my next character & his/her intentions!
January 2, 2020 at 11:21 am
jenfierjasinski
Thank you for delving into both sides of intention! Digging in and letting go both seem critical for the journey.
January 2, 2020 at 11:22 am
Liz
“Oh, is that what I wrote?” Haha. So true.Thanks for keeping it real!
January 2, 2020 at 11:22 am
Laura Purdie Salas
I so agree–what you or your character intended is sometimes not what the reader gets out of it. But important part of the process, nonetheless :>)
January 2, 2020 at 11:23 am
Suzanne Lewis
Character intention — yes! The very story onion that inspires a peeling of character development layers to create an imaginative, even surprising plot. Thanks for this post, Shutta!
January 2, 2020 at 11:23 am
Joni Nemeth
I definitely am better at meeting literary intentions than personal ones – each day has to be a new one with the best of intentions! 😉 Thank you!
January 2, 2020 at 11:26 am
Lauren Barbieri
Great post and very timely for me—thank you! I was just sifting through the layers of my intention with a new story idea.
January 2, 2020 at 11:26 am
Teresa Robeson
Wise words from Shutta, as always! This was very inspiring.
January 2, 2020 at 11:26 am
Jay
I can think of a few mss that would benefit from improving character intention. Thanks for the tip.
January 2, 2020 at 11:27 am
Gregory E Bray
Great post. Thank you!
January 2, 2020 at 11:28 am
Alicia Curley
Loved this post today, Shutta! Have been thinking a lot about intention in my YA novel, but I do less of it for my PBs. This is great food for thought to change that 🙂 Thank you!
January 2, 2020 at 11:30 am
Michelle Ramirez
Excellent article!
January 2, 2020 at 11:30 am
Jay
Thank you for your great post. Will use this approach in many of my mss.
January 2, 2020 at 11:32 am
KatyD
Thank you for this insightful post, Shutta.
January 2, 2020 at 11:35 am
Joel Chalmers
Thanks Shutta! Finding the intention for a character and working back through the plot to fully develop it can get to the heart of the story. Thinking about it in an idea by idea process makes ot more accessible to write.
January 2, 2020 at 11:37 am
Tracy Hora
Great post! My word of the year last year was intentional. This brings new layers of meaning to my word.
January 2, 2020 at 11:39 am
asiqueira1307
Thank you so much for this post. I have encountered myself in this situation many times with my CPs and I could not understand how they see things so differently than what I expected. Also, I will work hard on getting the intention of my MC and then letting it go. hahaha. Gracias, Ana
January 2, 2020 at 11:44 am
Laura Perdew
I love when characters or stories take an unexpected route!
January 2, 2020 at 11:45 am
Doreen E. Lepore
Thank you for your wise words.
January 2, 2020 at 11:46 am
Monica A. Harris
Shutta is a gem! Having known her for many years as part of the SCBWI Michigan group, she is filled with enthusiasm, encouragement, and unparalleled guidance. ❤ (Plus she wears some really cool shoes!) Thank you for starting Storystorm off with a bang!
January 2, 2020 at 11:48 am
danielledufayet
Intention is only the starting point of a challenging, frustrating, yet deeply rewarding journey. 🙂
January 2, 2020 at 11:49 am
aliciaminor
My intention right now is to encourage myself and my co-writers to continue fulfilling their dreams through Story storm. Thank you for another word of wisdom in writing. More power to you and happy new year.
January 2, 2020 at 11:54 am
curryelizabeth
“The slow reveal of multi-faceted intention”—loved this. Thank you for this reminder that it often something that evolves as you write.
January 2, 2020 at 11:57 am
stacey miller
Wow, I love this that your intention and perception of your story can change through everyone who reads this because of course stories mean different things to different people. Thank you so much, Shutta.
January 2, 2020 at 11:57 am
Kathy Cornell Berman
Thanks for reminding us that we should be open to serendipity and surprise while writing. And of course intentions should be understood.
January 2, 2020 at 11:57 am
Michelle Kashinsky
Thank you
January 2, 2020 at 11:59 am
Carolyn Lucas
Great post. Thank you.
January 2, 2020 at 12:03 pm
Brandy Lynne
I have never given much thought to my character’s intentions. Thanks!
January 2, 2020 at 12:05 pm
Linda Schueler
I like how you look at it from both sides.
January 2, 2020 at 12:05 pm
JEN Garrett
That’s exactly what I love about writing picture books (or anything really) – you craft something amazing and then send it out into the world where readers transform that something beyond your imagination! Thanks for the inspiring post.
January 2, 2020 at 12:05 pm
Maria Bostian
Thank you for the comments on intention and of being open to “serendipity and surprise!” Will remember them in thee days ahead. Happy New year to you!
January 2, 2020 at 12:06 pm
Maryna Doughty
This is a great reminder to ask myself, what are my main character’s intentions? I tend to forget this at times, and my plot can get confusing. Thanks for the post, Shutta!
January 2, 2020 at 12:07 pm
Stephanie Gibeault
Great post, thank you! I think you just explained why I found discussions about symbolism so frustrating in high school English class. 🙂
January 2, 2020 at 12:07 pm
marty
Interesting idea. Love the two faces of intention and your reminder that any creative endeavor is subjective and apt to be interpreted differently by each and every individual. Thanks, Shutta.
January 4, 2020 at 12:46 pm
marty
Marty Bellis
January 2, 2020 at 12:09 pm
Susan Macartney
Such great advice and wonderful food for thought as we start this month of intention! Thank you!
January 2, 2020 at 12:10 pm
jennawaldman
Thank you for your wise words, Shutta! Intention is definitely something I need to pay more attention to!
January 2, 2020 at 12:10 pm
Cathy Ogren
I love your comment about the “slow reveal of multi-faceted intention that’s critically important to sustain a reader’s attention.” Thank you for sharing!
January 2, 2020 at 12:14 pm
spinksc
Thank you for the helpful information!
January 2, 2020 at 12:15 pm
Pauline Ts'o
Excellent craft article, very helpful!
January 2, 2020 at 12:16 pm
Lisa Black
Thank you
January 2, 2020 at 12:16 pm
Pauline Ts'o
Excellent craft article – very helpful – thank you!
January 2, 2020 at 12:17 pm
Dawn Prochovnic
Thank you, Shutta. This was just the message I needed to hear as I dive into a critical revision.
January 2, 2020 at 12:17 pm
Judy Cooper
Thank you for your perpsective on intention.
January 2, 2020 at 12:18 pm
BARBARA SENENMAN
Thank you for the great reminder of not waiting until you know your characters’ intentions before you write. It has been holding me back.
January 2, 2020 at 12:21 pm
jbbower
Thank you for the inspiring post Shutta. I know what you mean about perceptions. I once wrote a short drama (play) but the audience found it to be a comedy. And, it worked much better that way!
January 2, 2020 at 12:22 pm
sabrinafedel
Thanks for putting this on again, Tara! All the best, Sabrina
January 2, 2020 at 12:23 pm
elodiegg
Thanks Tara for doing this – this’ll be my third year x
January 2, 2020 at 12:23 pm
kateywrites
Thank you for getting me thinking about intention to launch a new year of writing – it’s a great way to recenter!
January 2, 2020 at 12:23 pm
nicolesalterbraun
Something I aspire to improve w/ each story. Thank you!
January 2, 2020 at 12:24 pm
stacyallen
I love the shift from character’s intention to reader’s perception. Thanks for the reminder.
January 2, 2020 at 12:24 pm
bevbaird
Great post Shutta. Intentions are so important and you’ve given all sides to the issue. Thank you.
January 2, 2020 at 12:24 pm
Shari Swanson
Thank you for your perspective on intention!
January 2, 2020 at 12:26 pm
Leslie Leibhardt Goodman - Writer
Thanks so much for your inspiring post! Today, I’ll head into the manuscript that has been stumping me for a number of versions, make sure I know what my MC’s intention is, write it down as a question, and make sure their actions reflect that question. I’m excited to see where this takes me. 🙂
January 2, 2020 at 12:26 pm
Juliana Lee
Hi Shutta! Love the video! And the info on intention is super helpful. Time to get our 2020 goals intentional too!
January 2, 2020 at 12:28 pm
Cathy C. Hall
Excellent! I’ve been thinking about living more intentionally but hadn’t considered writing with intention. (Though I think I probably do that automatically. Still, I like thinking about it more intentionally. 🙂 )
January 2, 2020 at 12:28 pm
Amy Huntington
Thanks, Shutta. So true!
January 2, 2020 at 12:28 pm
Marty lapointe-malchik
That video of Expert Reviewers is PERFECTION! Thank you, Shutta!
I’m beginning to think that poorly conceived intention is one of my primary downfalls in the revision process! Thank you for underscoring how the draft- after-draft process reveals intention. Onward through the Storystorm!
January 2, 2020 at 12:31 pm
Claire W Bobrow
Thanks for these great insights about intention, Shutta. I often get lost in my own manuscripts, but this is a great reminder to keep thinking about intention as I fumble my way forwards.
January 2, 2020 at 12:33 pm
Becky Ross Michael
Interesting food for thought. Thanks, Shutta!
January 2, 2020 at 12:34 pm
Rachel Armington
Lovely post about intention! When I was in my first writing group (which wasn’t aimed at writing for children) in college, the author running the group made a big deal about how she had “borrowed” one of my metaphors for the story she was working on. For the rest of the semester, everyone in the group treated me as if I were some sort of celebrity. But my intention was entirely different than what people were reading. They all saw something sexual in it, and that couldn’t have been further from what I meant! Sometimes a tomato is just a tomato.
January 2, 2020 at 2:03 pm
Shutta Crum
That is true. Sometimes a tomato is a tomato, but if that tomato when tasted reminds the taster of heaven — while you thought it was hell– I think that’s wonderful. What will be remembered is that you–oh, wise one–had the foresight to say, “Come, taste this tomato and share with me what you think about it.”
January 2, 2020 at 12:38 pm
Deb McGarvey
Thank you, Shutta! Wonderful reminders about how characters’ intentions can change as we write, and how we must wander a bit to find the truth.
January 2, 2020 at 12:38 pm
Joanna Rowland
This is really interesting. May our characters intentions flow today, May we be surprised by discovery along the way.
January 2, 2020 at 12:45 pm
Susan Cabael
I’ve been thinking a lot about intention lately, but not in the context of my characters. This brings new, helpful perspective to my work, and I thank you for that.
January 2, 2020 at 12:49 pm
Sara fajardo
Thank you so much for this take on writing and intention.
January 2, 2020 at 12:53 pm
Martha
Intention is a goal but not a linear goal. If ideas were static there wouldn’t be any growth. The act of intention sets you on the path of discovery
January 2, 2020 at 12:54 pm
Kaitlyn Leann Sanchez
Shutta, I love this! Both sides. Intention is one of the hardest things to find at times, but you’re so right once we find it, we can figure out how to get our charcaters to the end. My favorite part, “But often it is the slow reveal of multi-faceted intention that’s critically important to sustain a reader’s attention. It’s the surprises, the freshness, the sudden turns, and the realistic and humble bumbling toward enlightenment that can entice and keep a reader reading. This then leads to the satisfying ending that either rewards or thwarts your characters’ intentions.” And also, I was lucky enough to meet Uma at a SCBWI conference in 2018, isn’t she just great? And so genuinely kind.❤️ Thanks so much for sharing, excited to focus in on my characters intentions but be ready for others to see something surprising too. Congrats on all your wonderful books!
January 2, 2020 at 1:55 pm
Shutta Crum
So glad you got to meet Uma. She’s a dear and a wonderful writer!
January 2, 2020 at 12:55 pm
LenoraBiemans (@BiemansLenora)
I love this. Sometimes I’m too much of a hurry to put together a cohesive story for a critique group meeting. I’m going to spend more time playing (and listening). Thank you!
January 2, 2020 at 12:57 pm
Christine Pinto
What a great post! And I am inspired by the video too. Thanks for reminding me of how worthwhile the journey is.
January 2, 2020 at 12:58 pm
Leah
I appreciate your reminder that the reader takes their own meaning away from our stories.
January 2, 2020 at 12:58 pm
SpeechVine
Intention is so important. I often find I intend one thing for my characters but not everyone sees it the same when they read it.
January 2, 2020 at 12:58 pm
heatherbell37
This post is right on time for me. The notion that intention is a discovery makes so much sense. Thanks for this!
January 2, 2020 at 12:59 pm
Mark Ceilley
Reading about “intention” helped me look at my characters’ motivation in a new way. Thank you for sharing this with us. I also enjoyed your video of how to choose a book.
January 2, 2020 at 12:59 pm
mariaordish
This is a great post to get the new year gears working! Love it!
January 2, 2020 at 12:59 pm
Debbie Lodato
Great post today Shutta. Loved it!
Also love your PB Mouseling’s Words.
Happy New Year!
January 2, 2020 at 1:01 pm
Gayle Veitenheimer
I loved your perspective on how our art is received. So true! Thanks for the reminder!
January 2, 2020 at 1:05 pm
Mary Jo Wagner
I love the idea of giving myself permission to alter my or my character’s intention, set new intention or detach from it all together.
January 2, 2020 at 1:05 pm
Catherine
Thank you for this great post and the giveaway Shutta. I have just started asking myself what my characters intentions are. It makes writing their stories so much easier when I ask them why they are doing something and how they will react to particular events.
January 2, 2020 at 1:06 pm
Chana
I love “the realistic and humble bumbling toward enlightenment that can entice and keep a reader reading.” Thank you!
January 2, 2020 at 1:07 pm
Cheryl Keely
Write with intention and then let it go. Lovely perspective on the need for doing both.
January 2, 2020 at 1:09 pm
Arin Wensley
Great post, I love the take on art like books can be interpreted many ways and can be subjective.
January 2, 2020 at 1:10 pm
Amy Bradshaw
So much to think about on this writing journey. Thanks for reminding me about intention and its importance.
January 2, 2020 at 1:14 pm
jodieparachini
I love how readers bring an entirely new perspective to the work (as do illustrators! I’ve had illustrators draw characters in ways I never could have imagined.) Thank you!
January 2, 2020 at 1:14 pm
Heather Rowley
Thanks for your post!
January 2, 2020 at 1:18 pm
Carolyn Currier
Thank you!
January 2, 2020 at 1:19 pm
mommamoocow
Thank you. Love your name!
January 2, 2020 at 1:22 pm
Kate Molde
Intention, a word to remember when working on an idea. Loved the video at the end! This will be fun to share with my students during library next week! Thank you!
January 2, 2020 at 1:23 pm
jennapashley
“Embrace the ambiguity” is the quote I’m going to illustrate today in my writing journal.
January 2, 2020 at 1:24 pm
Dayne Sislen, Children's Book Illustrator
Thank you for your wise words. I have a lot to keep in mind on my writing journey.
January 2, 2020 at 1:26 pm
Shirley
Thank you so much for this post! I’m saving, printing, and tacking it up. Such great content!
January 2, 2020 at 1:26 pm
Cassandra Federman
What a wonderful variety of ways to view intention! Thank you!
January 2, 2020 at 1:31 pm
donnacangelosi
Thank you for reminding us about intention. Great way to start the new year!
January 2, 2020 at 1:35 pm
Emily
Art isn’t static! Thank you!
January 2, 2020 at 1:38 pm
Jess Townes
Thank you for this wisdom, Shutta. It applies off the page as well. Happy New Year!
January 2, 2020 at 1:41 pm
Amy Newbold
Thanks for this advice on writing character intentions. I’ve been grappling with this in a few stories, and I found this to be encouraging and helpful.
January 2, 2020 at 1:42 pm
Angela Verges
Shutta, thanks for your insights on intention. This is good information that I’ll use moving forward.
January 2, 2020 at 1:56 pm
Shutta Crum
Hey, Angela!!! Sending hugs.
January 2, 2020 at 1:45 pm
marjorienye
I love the idea that your character’s true intention may not crystalize until you’ve written a few drafts. Great motivation to keep writing and clarifying!
January 2, 2020 at 1:49 pm
Linda KulpTrout
Thank you for this great post on intention. It’s always surprises me when I learn my character’s true intention!
January 2, 2020 at 1:50 pm
Elizabeth
I like the idea of focusing on a characters intention to help me stay focused when plotting out a story! Thanks for the tip!
January 2, 2020 at 1:53 pm
Amy from VA
This was a helpful post b/c it seems that sometimes writerly advice says you should know all your m/c intentions before you begin writing – it’s good to know that you can learn a bit before and a bit during.
January 2, 2020 at 1:57 pm
Shutta Crum
Aactually, i learn A LOT during the process. I find my mind is more open to serendipity then. Maybe why I’m a panster and not an outliner.
January 2, 2020 at 1:57 pm
Sandhya Rose
What an insightful post! I think I’ll decorate the word ‘intention’ and stick it on the wall near my laptop!! Thanks Shutta & Tara
January 2, 2020 at 1:57 pm
DebraDaugherty
Thanks, Shutta, for this post on intentions. I’m going to review my work and see if my intentions are clear, and maybe even change the direction I originally sent my story.
January 2, 2020 at 1:58 pm
cbcole
I love your emphasis that art is a very personal experience. Writers need to remember this when they get a rejection – that it’s the agent/editor’s reaction not that the writing is bad.
January 2, 2020 at 2:01 pm
Jen Kraar
Thanks for the reminder. My favorite writing moments happen when my character veers from my intended path.
January 2, 2020 at 2:02 pm
Abby Wooldridge
Thanks for a great post!
January 2, 2020 at 2:02 pm
Jamie Donahoe
Great insight and a good push for my new year of writing. Thanks!
January 2, 2020 at 2:02 pm
Traci Van Wagoner
Thanks for this! I shall spend my day today (and every day) writing with intention. This matches up nicely with my word for this year: Purpose. Thanks for the inspirational boost this morning.
January 2, 2020 at 2:07 pm
Rena traxel
Love it. I picked intent as my word for 2020.
January 2, 2020 at 2:11 pm
saputnam
Great post, Shutta!! Thank you for giving us your views on intentions. I do some of my best work while gardening, there is something about getting my hands deep down in the dirt that is very freeing… and I agree that, “Art is not static.” I love it when one of my stories takes on a life of its own … I never know when it is going to hang a left, taking me down a road I have never traveled before.
January 3, 2020 at 9:32 am
Shutta Crum
Gardening brings reminds me that I did do a post once on how that frees up the imagination. I need to dig it out again. Keep on keeping on.
January 2, 2020 at 2:11 pm
Stephanie Farrow
Love Uma’s advise to “embrace the ambiguity”. It’s often difficult but makes for richer meaning.
January 2, 2020 at 2:12 pm
Susie Sawyer
Thank you, Shutta, for an excellent reminder about keeping our minds open about our audience’s perception of our work. I’m reminded a bit of the Alan Greenspan quote, “I know you think you understand what you thought I said but I’m not sure you realize that what you heard is not what I meant.” 😊
January 2, 2020 at 2:13 pm
Rachel
Thanks for sharing these ideas.
January 2, 2020 at 2:14 pm
carolmunrojww
I know it wasn’t your intent (or maybe it was, you sneaky Janus-like one), but this post has made me rethink who the MC is in one of my PB mss. (It was this sentence: “It’s the surprises, the freshness, the sudden turns, and the realistic and humble bumbling toward enlightenment that can entice and keep a reader reading.”) I may have to rewrite the story from her POV.
January 2, 2020 at 2:14 pm
Keeping the Me in Mommy
Great reminder, Shutta, to remain open to where the stories lead us!
January 2, 2020 at 2:14 pm
Katie L. Carroll
I love when characters surprise me! Thanks for a great post.
January 2, 2020 at 2:16 pm
Earl @ The Chronicles Of A Children's Book Writer
What a perfectly timely post since I always try to start my days off with intention.
January 2, 2020 at 2:16 pm
Laura Hartman
Thanks for nudging me to go to my previous ideas – some of them don’t stink 🙂
January 2, 2020 at 2:17 pm
jenabenton
Good advice!
January 2, 2020 at 2:17 pm
Jill Lambert (@LJillLambert)
A great post on the power of intention. Here’s hoping I can harness it!
January 2, 2020 at 2:19 pm
Jane Serpa
Thank you for sharing.
January 2, 2020 at 2:20 pm
Katie Williams
Such great advice, especially as I struggle with this frequently! Often, I just sit down and write without much forethought–which can be very two-faced, just like Janus. I like to see what comes out, but I think that going back over it with a mind toward ‘intention’ is very important to hold the storyline together. Thanks Shutta!
January 2, 2020 at 2:21 pm
Vanessa Hancock (@HancockVanessa)
Great insight! I love .. It’s a reenergizing force that zooms onward and outward to become . . .
Inspirational! Thanks!
January 2, 2020 at 2:21 pm
sareenmclay
Thank you, I really enjoyed reading your post, Shutta. I’ve always loved the way a creative sends a work out into the world and it seems to take on a life of it’s own and be discussed, enjoyed (or not) and engaged with. Surely this interaction is a compliment to the creator?
January 2, 2020 at 2:21 pm
Joanne Roberts
Your reassurance that it’s okay to assign an obvious intention until I get to know my characters better is such a welcome piece of advice. Thank-you for the prod to keep going in the face of ambiguity!
January 2, 2020 at 2:23 pm
Jan Milusich
I’m presently bumbling through intention with my character.Thank you for validating my bumbling.
January 2, 2020 at 2:23 pm
writeknit
Thank you for reminding me that writing is an art, to be interpreted through the reader’s filters and experiences. As long as it is enjoyed that is all that matters when all is said and done. 🙂
January 2, 2020 at 2:24 pm
Pat
Thank you for sharing your wisdom, Shutta!
January 2, 2020 at 2:24 pm
bluerabbit
Great post. Very true on all counts.
January 2, 2020 at 2:25 pm
megcason1
May we all write with stronger intentions.
Thank you Shutta!
January 2, 2020 at 2:25 pm
bluerabbit
Reblogged this on One Way to Wonder.
January 2, 2020 at 2:32 pm
Pat
Thank you so much for sharing your wisdom, Shutta!
January 2, 2020 at 2:42 pm
juliannahelt
Great post! Thanks!
January 2, 2020 at 2:42 pm
Nadia Salomon
What a great post Shutta! Depending on the story I am working on, I’ve never really thought much about ‘intent’. I’ve always been an ’emotional’ or sensorial writer. I write what I am ‘feeling’, but realized that each piece regardless of my process has intent. Thank you for this, and the reminder to add that element of surprise!
January 2, 2020 at 2:44 pm
Mary Jane
Shutta, Thanks for this great advice. I can see how it will also help me with my novel as well as my picture book ideas and older manuscripts. Wow!
January 2, 2020 at 2:46 pm
Jennifer Spillane
Stories and characters can take you to places you didn’t intend, but that part of the fun of writing. Good to remember that it’s okay for your story ( or some part of it) to change.
January 2, 2020 at 2:49 pm
Susan Latta
What a wonderful new way to look at our writing, thank you! Love the idea of looking at intent.
January 2, 2020 at 2:52 pm
Patti J. Kurtz
I love the idea of a character’s changing intentions–that gives me a new way to look at my wip draft.
January 2, 2020 at 2:53 pm
Lisa Billa
Thanks for the reminder that ambiguity is ok, and leads to surprises! I’m still letting some characters find out what they want.
January 2, 2020 at 2:53 pm
Dina HB
I’ve been going through this with my middle grade novel. After much wandering, I think I’m on the right path. Thanks for the inspiring post, Shutta!
January 2, 2020 at 2:54 pm
anitajjones
I love Shutta! Her honesty, talent and wisdom is evident in her own work, (and words!) I love that her blog said, “intention is critical ” in the beginning, but audience perception is what matters in the end. Hope that’s correct!
January 2, 2020 at 2:57 pm
Lynn Pedersen
Thanks for reminding me that the way a reader experiences a book is not 100% in the author’s control, and that’s part of the art!
January 2, 2020 at 3:04 pm
Midge Ballou Smith
You’ve got me thinking about things, which I’m sure was your intention, lol. Thank’s for a great post, Shutta!
January 2, 2020 at 3:05 pm
Marie Powell
Thanks for pushing me to consider intentions today, and for mentioning the importance of timing. I’m in the middle of a re-revision, and I was able to take my notes and write a few paragraphs about my character and her intentions that I think it’s important to know. Loving Storystorm 2020!
January 2, 2020 at 3:10 pm
Terry Hojnacki
Shutta, thanks for sharing the possibility of letting a character guide the story. Sometimes the unexpected is so much better than what I plotted.
January 2, 2020 at 3:12 pm
Michelle Klump
I really enjoyed this post. It’s good to remind yourself that you don’t have to have it all figured out when you start writing. Thanks!
January 2, 2020 at 3:13 pm
Leslie Kelley
So basically it’s a bit like beauty is in the eye of the beholder… I love that.
January 2, 2020 at 3:14 pm
Terry Hojnacki
Shutta, thanks for sharing the possibility of letting the character guide the story. Sometimes the unexpected is so much better than what I plotted.
January 2, 2020 at 3:14 pm
Anita Banks
Thank you for the lesson!
January 2, 2020 at 3:17 pm
teresa.mi.schaefer
I am intending to complete this StoryStorm challenge! Now to figure out what my characters are intending. 🙂
January 2, 2020 at 3:19 pm
Sue Reichard
I cannot believe I missed posting yesterday! Thanks so much for making me think about audience. While, it’s always in my mind when writing, I do forget about it. I am so glad to participate and learn. Thanks so much for the opportunity!
January 2, 2020 at 3:25 pm
Gabriele
Thanks for this important reminder, Shutta – and for the adorable video!
January 2, 2020 at 3:26 pm
mathbookmagic
Thanks for your insights on intention! Very helpful. And loved the darling video. A good book taps into all of your senses.
January 2, 2020 at 3:26 pm
Joan Swanson
I always have good intentions, it is making those intention come to light.
January 2, 2020 at 3:29 pm
tdjw
Great post. I often work on my characters by using webs and filling the bubbles with different aspects of their feelings and intentions!
January 2, 2020 at 3:33 pm
Sue Heavenrich
Great word for the day: intention. And thanks for the fun video of how to choose good books. They are basically the same things we book reviewers do… except for tasting.
January 2, 2020 at 3:33 pm
Eileen
A story of mine has been bugging me. After reading this and careful thought, the intention of my main character came clear. My focus was in the wrong place.I think it will work better after I rewrite a couple pages. Thank you so much.
January 2, 2020 at 3:33 pm
Anne Bromley
Thank you, Shutta, for the reminder that intentions are an excellent exercise that magically disappear when the story goes public.
January 2, 2020 at 3:44 pm
writersideup
I love this focus on intention and how it tends to become clearer, so thanks, Shutta! Of course, I do struggle with the perception of the audience as to the meanings/intentions that are important, but it’s something we all have to accept once our work is out into the world!
January 2, 2020 at 3:46 pm
Tricia Stiehr
I’m always awestruck with my student’s insights to the protagonists real intentions. They see so much more than I do at times.
January 2, 2020 at 3:48 pm
Laura W.
Great post Shutta. Thank you for sharing. Especially liked when you said, “clarifying intention happens through a process of discovery.”
January 2, 2020 at 3:54 pm
Lois M Silverman
Very interesting … great article.
January 2, 2020 at 3:57 pm
Elizabeth S.
Inspiring post!
Thank you Tara, and Shutta for the chance to win!
January 2, 2020 at 3:58 pm
estiert
Great post!
Thank you Tara and Shutta for the chance to win!
January 2, 2020 at 3:59 pm
laurie smollett kutscera
This was a wonderful reminder especially for a pantser like me- who often moves about and finds intention and meaning without a map. Thank you Shutta.
January 2, 2020 at 3:59 pm
lauraraheath
This is fascinating. Thanks so much. I
January 2, 2020 at 3:59 pm
TerriMichels
Thank you for sharing your thoughts.
January 2, 2020 at 3:59 pm
Lara Elliott
Character intention is something that I often forget about in the first draft. Thanks for the reminder!
January 2, 2020 at 4:01 pm
lauraraheath
Fascinating, Thankyou for reassuring me that it’s okay when people see other things in my book and indeed when the book seems to take a completely unpredicted route. Very useful.
January 2, 2020 at 4:02 pm
Eileen Mayo
That’s a really helpful perspective to keep in mind. Art is so subjective. Thanks for the great article.
January 2, 2020 at 4:08 pm
westindianmommy
Great post, thank you!
January 2, 2020 at 4:12 pm
Dawn Young
Shutta, thank you for opening my eyes a little further on this journey called writing.
January 2, 2020 at 4:14 pm
Genevieve Petrillo
Really? So I’m not the only one who is “wandering around lost for a good deal of the time?” Whew! That’s a relief!
January 6, 2020 at 9:05 am
Shutta Crum
Absolutely!
January 2, 2020 at 4:18 pm
wyszguy
Great post! I feel like that’s the 1st one i’ve seen about intention.
January 2, 2020 at 4:19 pm
Susan Drew
Thanks for the post. I was going to say, Huh… you can teach an old dog new tricks. Meaning me of course. When that gave me an idea for a book. So thanks for two things!
January 2, 2020 at 4:21 pm
Dawn Young
Shutta, thank you for opening my eyes a little further on this journey called writing.
January 2, 2020 at 4:22 pm
Karen Greenwald
I intended to really enjoy your post…and I did! You’ve given a great explanation and a lot to think about! Thanks for your post! Happy New Year!
January 2, 2020 at 4:23 pm
stepheniehovland
I love the idea of looking for the deeper intention. Keep asking why (like a persistent three year old.)
January 2, 2020 at 4:26 pm
Alicia Stenard
Writing with the main character’s intention in mind is a new concept for me. This was very informative and an area in my writing that needs work. I can see how this will help my writing much stronger. Thank you!
January 2, 2020 at 4:28 pm
Susan
Great post. Thanks.
January 2, 2020 at 4:28 pm
E. D. Stewart
So well put, thank you!
January 2, 2020 at 4:36 pm
Janet Frenck Sheets
Yes, it seems like one of the things picture book writers struggle with the most is making the protagonist’s intention clear right away. Thanks for your insights.
January 2, 2020 at 4:37 pm
Janet Johnson
Interesting thoughts on intention! And so true about our readers. 🙂
January 2, 2020 at 4:47 pm
angie9091
This is exactly my experience of writing novels – no matter how well I think i know my characters before I start, I discover a lot about them on the way.
January 2, 2020 at 4:50 pm
Kailei Pew
Great point about the reader coming up with new things that we don’t even think about. I know I probably even do it as a reader without thinking about it. Our own personal lives and experiences create so much of the experience for us.
January 2, 2020 at 4:54 pm
Helen Lysicatos
Wonderful post, thank you!
January 2, 2020 at 4:55 pm
vgraboski61gmailcom
Great insights, thank you! It’s so exciting to think about how our art takes on a life of it’s own after it leaves our hands. The human condition is complex.
January 2, 2020 at 4:56 pm
Lydia Lukidis
It’s all about intention! Sometimes I myself am unclear about my MC’s wants, and that’s a problem. It;s about getting clear on it all….
January 2, 2020 at 4:58 pm
Katherine Rothstein
Thank You for sharing your wisdom!
January 2, 2020 at 4:58 pm
Linda Silvestri
With writing, acting and many creative endeavors I’ve always heard it best to give the characters a backstory. Was never entirely sure how to get there. I love your idea of the finding the character’s intention and letting it take on a life of it’s own in order to have the character and even the plot take shape. Thanks! Great post!
January 2, 2020 at 4:59 pm
marshaelyn
Thanks, Shutta, for creating clarity around the foggy, yet necessary, key to good storytelling: “intention.” The upfront work of intention is one I struggle with since I like jumping ahead into the writing. I’ll remember your post each time I bite down and do the hard work of “intention.” Thanks!
January 2, 2020 at 4:59 pm
susan schade
Thank you for the post and inspiration!
January 2, 2020 at 5:14 pm
Rebecca Thill (@rkthill)
I really enjoyed this post – thanks!
January 2, 2020 at 5:17 pm
Maria Marshall
Wonderful and thought provoking post, Shutta. I’ve never forgotten some of my English teachers (and others) trying to assert what the author intended and feeling the exact opposite. It’s a good thing to remember that even PBs provide different things to different people. Thank you.
January 2, 2020 at 5:24 pm
Brenda May
Thank you for the interesting post. Intention, I shall certianly be using this new tool.
January 2, 2020 at 5:24 pm
Amy Houts
Insightful, Shutta! Thanks! I just checked Twitter so I could follow you and found that I am already following you. : )
January 2, 2020 at 5:35 pm
https://katiewalsh.blog/
This is so insightful, Shutta! Thank you for sharing!
January 2, 2020 at 5:39 pm
Living Sattva
Enjoying art is a personal experience! Thank you for the insights, Shutta!
January 2, 2020 at 5:41 pm
pmmcnally
Thank you Shutta for this lovely post on intention. It’s a great reminder there are often twists and turns along the way that keep us writers writing…and eventually readers reading!
January 2, 2020 at 5:42 pm
darshanakhiani
wonderful post!
January 2, 2020 at 5:44 pm
Cindi Goodeaux
Thank you for sharing! 🙂
January 2, 2020 at 5:48 pm
Hélène Sabourin
Thank you for this interesting perspective
January 2, 2020 at 5:48 pm
Aileen Stewart
Always love advice and tips from the lovely Ms. Shutta :0)
January 2, 2020 at 5:48 pm
Ashley Congdon (@AshleyCCongdon)
Writing with intention is really key for me this year. Thanks!
January 2, 2020 at 5:49 pm
Nancy Churnin
Thanks, Shutta. What’s fascinating to me, too, is how one discovers intention even in the process of writing about real people. You gather all your information, the ideas bubble in your brain, but it’s sometimes not until you are writing that you figure what compelled your main character to do what he or she did.
January 2, 2020 at 5:49 pm
Michelle Kogan Art, Illustration, & Writing
Thanks Shutta, I like the ideas about taking it slow, building up the suspense, and a surprise turn! Thanks also for your session at the SCBWI Midwest Conference lecture this past May! Crossing my fingers for a picture book review by you. Cheers, Happy New Year! P.S. your book 📚 video was taster!
January 2, 2020 at 5:50 pm
Kathy Raggio
Intention – need to focus on my intentions more But I love when you say… “It takes on a life of its own-regardless of whatever you intended your work to do.” Made me chuckle because that is exactly what happens. Alot! 🙂
January 2, 2020 at 5:52 pm
Aileen Stewart
It’s always fun to read advice and tips from Ms. Shutta :0)
January 2, 2020 at 5:55 pm
Samantha
Hi Shutta, what a great piece on intentions! I liked how you threw in the caveat that people will interpret one’s creative work in their own way, which is what makes it special and personal to them. However, having that intention in mind helps ensure we as writers have a deliberate message to send, even if it’s not the one that’s received! 🙂 Great post.
January 2, 2020 at 6:15 pm
mypetopia
I intend on focusing on my character’s intentions. Thanks for the insight!
January 2, 2020 at 6:16 pm
Melissa Stoller
Hi Shutta – thanks for a great post! I love your ideas about intention and the perception by the reader/viewer/listener. Happy New Year!
January 2, 2020 at 6:18 pm
Gabi Snyder
Such an insightful post about intention. Thank you, Shutta! I’m going to be thinking about this post for awhile.
January 2, 2020 at 6:19 pm
rachontheroad
I’m going to show the How to Choose a Good Book with my students’ families. Thank you!
January 2, 2020 at 6:21 pm
Beth Edson
Would love to win the critique. Fingers crossed.
January 2, 2020 at 6:22 pm
DCSM
Shutta – I love the word intention – I usually think in terms of my character’s motivation or goal – yet intention as explained in your post help me to think about a few of my muddy characters in a clearer way.
January 2, 2020 at 6:22 pm
chardixon47
“Embrace the ambiguity,”-love this quote. Thank you, Shutta, for your insights on intention. Things can always change course!
January 2, 2020 at 6:25 pm
EmmieRWerner
Intentional!!!❤️
January 2, 2020 at 6:25 pm
Michele Helsel
I never considered intention that much. Interesting!
January 2, 2020 at 6:32 pm
LeeAnn Rizzuti
Thanks for sharing your insights on intention, Shutta. And for the video. Children really are the most honest book reviewers out there.
January 2, 2020 at 6:32 pm
Lu Bisignano Pierro
A friend of mine who is an artist once had an opening at which a dowager asked him what was his intention when creating his work and what did it mean. He went into a long and elaborate discussion of his work. Satisfied, she walked to the next artist. Amused, I asked him if that was his intention.
“Of course not,” he said, “but that is what she needed to hear since she can’t formulate her own thoughts.” I guess we do all bring our attitudes, beliefs, and “eye” to the art. Great piece. Thank you!
January 2, 2020 at 6:39 pm
Linda Hofke
THIS…
“clarifying intention happens through a process of discovery; the more you write the clearer all your characters’ intentions become. And this may not happen until you’ve written a couple of drafts”
…is so true. Thanks for the reminder.
January 2, 2020 at 6:43 pm
Liz Steinglass
Such a thoughtful post. Thank you!
January 2, 2020 at 6:44 pm
Catherine Morgans
Thanks Shutta. So much to think about and build on my intention.
January 2, 2020 at 6:47 pm
Mariana Rios
I found this post very helpful and interesting, since I have not stopped to consider the intention of my characters in previous drafts. I will definitely keep this in mind and revise my past manuscripts accordingly. Thank you!
January 2, 2020 at 6:49 pm
Melissa Koosmann
Very cool way of thinking about character intention–thanks!
January 2, 2020 at 6:50 pm
Melissa J Miles
This is great, and so important. In the past several years I’ve struggled with “life” getting in the way. My sister passed unexpectedly, then we lost my dad and Mom’s Parkinson’s has worsened. I’m going to focus on intention in 2020. If I believe I have stories to tell, I need to get busy and make it happen. Thanks for the motivation!
January 2, 2020 at 6:51 pm
Mark Bentz
Thank you Shutta for your informative post.
Kids are very honest, and see things differently then us adults.
Many ideas can come from a conversation with any child. they are who we write for.
January 2, 2020 at 6:54 pm
storycatcherpublishing
It is my “intention” to soak up every ounce of writerly wisdom from this month’s daily post that I can and let them inspire to greater heights in my writing, God willing!
Great post!
Donna L Martin
Story Catcher Publishing
January 2, 2020 at 6:56 pm
Patricia Alcaro
What a great lesson! I had this happen recently during a manuscript critique where my intention was not shared by the reviewer.
January 2, 2020 at 7:00 pm
Sara Trofa
Thank you for the post!
January 2, 2020 at 7:04 pm
Carrie Williford (@carrietimes)
So much to think about! I need to revisit first drafts and drafts that aren’t working and think about intention – it could unlock solutions.
January 2, 2020 at 7:06 pm
Susan Wroble
It reminds me of hearing that “the manuscript belongs to the author, but the book belongs to the world.” Thanks.
January 2, 2020 at 7:06 pm
authorshannonanderson
Hi Shutta! Great post! My intentions are now to get some of your books for my classroom.😊
January 2, 2020 at 7:12 pm
Deborah Lakritz
I’m always amazed at what’s hidden in our own stories and can only be uncovered through multiple drafts. Great article!
January 2, 2020 at 7:14 pm
ashley n despain
it always tells me more about the person who describes how they feel about my art than what my art is trying to say.
January 2, 2020 at 7:18 pm
Erik Ammon
I feel lost- I now find myself thinking, what is the intention of the MC of each story I’ve written? Is it clear? Do they have one? Maybe I haven’t been thinking overtly about intention, but I think I have…I have some reading to do 🙂 Thanks!
January 2, 2020 at 7:19 pm
Juliann Caveny
I needed to read this today. After drafting a great little story yesterday, I realized today, it may not be a “great” story. It might have a total different purpose than what I intentionally began with. So often, writing evolves like this. (I like to call it all a part of my therapy. 😉 ) But honestly, some of our best stuff is the “unintentional” works or the roads we take that branch off from our good intentions. Thanks for sharing. This is a post I will be rereading!
January 2, 2020 at 7:24 pm
aidantalkin
Fantastic post, thank you. Off to go infuse some intention into yesterday’s idea.
January 2, 2020 at 7:25 pm
Karan Greene
This was a great post! Lots to think through now. Thanks!
January 2, 2020 at 7:35 pm
pjaegly
I intend to write more, especially during the winter. Clarifying each character’s intentions is a great key. Thank you!
January 2, 2020 at 7:42 pm
Joan Maher
Fantastic post! Thank you!
January 2, 2020 at 7:47 pm
Christie Wild
Thanks for sharing! It’s like the intention is the why behind the goal. The internal character goal to the external story goal. I especially love the cute video you made!
January 2, 2020 at 7:53 pm
charlestrevino
Great post.
You intentionally bent my mind.
Thank you!
January 2, 2020 at 7:54 pm
svaisnoras
I love the idea of intention with your character. I will surely use that. Every tip helps. Thanks, Shutta.
January 2, 2020 at 7:54 pm
Shauna Woodall
People keep asking what my word of the year is; perhaps it’s INTENTION!!
January 2, 2020 at 8:01 pm
maryraebel
Great information! Thank you. I need to be mindful of intention as well as my characters’ “humble bumbling toward enlightenment.” I love that!
January 2, 2020 at 8:06 pm
Becky Woodall
This got my brain ticking over today. Thank you
January 2, 2020 at 8:09 pm
percyandcat
Shutta, I know what you mean buy intent to do one thing and suddenly your Character is going a different direction with new intentions. It threw me the first time it happened, but I am glad it did because it made for a better story. Sometimes, that little voice in your head has ideas of its own. This is one of the things I love about writing, it is not predictable. If it was, where would the challenge, the hunt and the thrill be? Thank you for your insight.
January 2, 2020 at 8:13 pm
whitcoma
I sometimes struggle with “enough” character growth in my picture book drafts and this gives me another lens with which to view it through, the lens of intention. Thank you for the inspiration!
January 2, 2020 at 8:30 pm
Laurie Carmody
I love this permission to let go and allow others to live with your art. Beautiful. Thank you!
January 2, 2020 at 8:32 pm
Shanah salter
Great post, love thinking of writing intention that disappears once published
January 2, 2020 at 8:40 pm
Sara Gentry
Thank you for your timely post. I am revising a PB to make the protagonist’s intention earlier.
January 2, 2020 at 8:40 pm
Manju B. Howard (@ManjuBeth)
Hi, Shutta! I still refer to notes from your talk on the Sound, Shape, Sense of Words. And this post is an excellent reminder to focus on the intention of each character in every scene. Thanks!
January 2, 2020 at 8:43 pm
Sara A
“Whatever you, as the creator of your work, intended your creation to do does not matter much. All that’s important is the perception and personally altered conception of it by your audience.” So much to ponder there!!
January 2, 2020 at 8:47 pm
Alexia Andoni
Thank you, Shutta. I enjoyed thinking about how the author’s intention can perceived differently by the reader. That must be interesting for the author.
January 2, 2020 at 8:57 pm
Cinzia V.
Thank you for your words. Revision is essential and It’s great to hear you discuss intention!
January 2, 2020 at 8:58 pm
Chrissie Wright
I love how you pointed out that a satisfying ending can be either intentions fulfilled or thwarted. Thanks for sharing!
January 2, 2020 at 9:13 pm
Jeannie Whelan Santucci
Lots of great ideas. Time to let them percolate. Thanks!
January 2, 2020 at 9:23 pm
Kristen Tipman
Great post! Thank you for sharing!
January 2, 2020 at 9:24 pm
Samantha Altmann
I really like the way you explained intention and how it evolves are you revise
January 2, 2020 at 9:27 pm
Rebekah Lowell
This could apply to novels as well. Thank you for sharing your thoughts with us!
January 2, 2020 at 9:31 pm
Marianne Knowles
The best laid plans of mice and men…and writers! Stories are what happens while you’re making other plans. Thanks for the post!
January 2, 2020 at 9:37 pm
KASteed
Thank you for the post. I will focus more on intention.
January 2, 2020 at 9:41 pm
Poupette Smith
what an adorable video!
January 2, 2020 at 9:46 pm
KRISTINA COOPER CASTILLO
Shutta, this was great! Art, in whatever form, always transforms over time.
January 2, 2020 at 9:48 pm
Robyn McGrath
Thank you for this!
January 2, 2020 at 9:49 pm
debbiemoeller
This was a post that made me pause and think about my current WIP. The first few drafts aren’t about crafting for me as much as fleshing out my theme and characters. Now I believe it’s time to go back and be more intentional-look at it through a new lens.
Great post! Thank you!
January 2, 2020 at 9:50 pm
Robyn McGrath
Thank you for this great post!
January 2, 2020 at 9:51 pm
Christina Shawn
I love the reminder that while our intentions are so important, the readers perception may not match our intentions. Sometimes those perceptions reveal even more depth and clarity. Those moments are magical, but would be few and far between if we don’t start with clear intention.
January 2, 2020 at 9:53 pm
rindabeach
I love the power of intention, especially when you pair it with revision and critiques. The story always gets better!
January 2, 2020 at 9:56 pm
Heather Kelso
After reading this I thought of 2 PB stories I am working on and what my main characters intentions are. This post is exactly what I needed to read. Thank you.
January 2, 2020 at 9:56 pm
Rona Shirdan
Enjoyed your post! I’ll focus on INTENTION.😊
January 2, 2020 at 10:00 pm
Ashley Pierson
Great post! I love the concept of intention but love it even more in regards to a character! Thank you, Shutta.
January 2, 2020 at 10:08 pm
Jessica Coupé
Love the idea of knowing your characters’ intention.
January 2, 2020 at 10:09 pm
adavis6385
Yes!! This is so perfect! I had just come up with my one word intention: CREATE. I hope to take this intention on head first in a variety of different capacities. Thanks for this important reminder, Shutta!!
January 2, 2020 at 10:10 pm
Jennifer Phillips
Great advice. My wheels are turning on some of my drafts. Thank you.
January 2, 2020 at 10:11 pm
Buffy Silverman
I love the way you describe discovering intention through revision–and how that might not match a reader’s perception. Great post, Shutta! (And so much fun to see your video again…and my now 31 year-old enjoying a good book!)
January 2, 2020 at 10:18 pm
Nancy Furstinger
My intention is to keep getting those reviews that make me scratch my head…in a good way! Art is always a transformative experience.
January 2, 2020 at 10:26 pm
grahamslc
Thanks for the great post!
January 2, 2020 at 10:28 pm
Karen Lawler
I actually came to a road, unlikely taken by my character, and followed it , You are right because it lead me to an unexpected place in my story!! Thank You, Shutta. 🙂
January 2, 2020 at 10:31 pm
M.A. Cortez
My characters rarely end up where I intended them to go at first, but I love following them and letting them take the lead.
January 2, 2020 at 10:37 pm
Tracey Brown
Wonderful post, Shutta! So many great takeaways, including this gem: “All that’s important is the perception and personally altered conception of it by your audience.”
January 2, 2020 at 10:40 pm
paulastevenson7
This has made me think! Especially in regard to my Middle Fiction character as well as my fantasy novel; great way to start the year with intention to define intention!
January 2, 2020 at 10:44 pm
Matt Sheelen
I love this! Thank you!
January 2, 2020 at 10:52 pm
sjwmeade
Thank you for this thought-provoking post.
January 2, 2020 at 11:00 pm
drawingablank6
Great info and advice!
~Gretchen
January 2, 2020 at 11:01 pm
Erin Matzen
Thanks for the insightful look into character intention! Erin
January 2, 2020 at 11:01 pm
Loni Edwards (@LoniEdwards)
Thank you, Shutta for an inspiring post! Lots to think about!
January 2, 2020 at 11:02 pm
Rinat Hadad Siegel
Thank you Shutta for a wonderful informative and clear explanation of intention. It reminds me of a backwards design method when writing a curriculum unit.
January 2, 2020 at 11:03 pm
Keila Dawson
Yes, and more yes. Love the Janus reference. Clarity is so important and often why I get sidetracked. Thanks for an insightful post Shutta.
January 2, 2020 at 11:05 pm
Jennifer Blanck
What a great post–thank you! I’ve been struggling with a part of a manuscript and this line really spoke to me: “But often it is the slow reveal of multi-faceted intention that’s critically important to sustain a reader’s attention.”
January 2, 2020 at 11:10 pm
rhumba20
Thank you Shutta for this post! I hadn’t thought of intention in depth like this before. Very informative 😀
Anna Levin
January 2, 2020 at 11:12 pm
Garnett Natasha
Thank you, Shutta.
I am writing down “the slow reveal of multi-faceted intention.” Important even in PBs for the youngest. Great point.
January 2, 2020 at 11:12 pm
Lori Menning
Thank you for your insight and clarity!
January 2, 2020 at 11:14 pm
Cortney Benvenuto
Thank you for sharing! 🙂
January 2, 2020 at 11:17 pm
Kristin Wauson
This is a good reminder that you don’t have to have it all figured out in the first draft. Characters and stories develop with each draft. Thank you!
January 2, 2020 at 11:20 pm
Jessica Potts
Great article on intention!
January 2, 2020 at 11:20 pm
Jessica Fries-Gaither
I love this post! Even though I want to focus on picture book biographies, finding intention is still important!
January 2, 2020 at 11:25 pm
Leigh Therriault
Beautifully put! Art truly is in the heart of the beholder….
January 2, 2020 at 11:27 pm
Beth Charles
I love this. I’m a bit of a pantster. Outlining is difficult for me. I generally know where I want things to end up, but feel I need to let my characters lead the way. Intention… thanks!
January 2, 2020 at 11:35 pm
Naomi Danis
Thanks for your discussion of intention. It reminded me of the tension between inspiration and commitment to routine in cultivating a habit of prayer; or, I’m not sure which famous person said it, inspiration visits the prepared mind.
January 2, 2020 at 11:36 pm
Michele Ziemke
Such a great article on intentions! I love it when my characters take me on an unexpected journey!
January 2, 2020 at 11:41 pm
kirstenbockblog
Wonderfully said! Thanks for the advice.
January 2, 2020 at 11:45 pm
Elizabeth Duncan
Thanks for the insights.
January 3, 2020 at 12:53 am
catpledger
Those children are marvelous. I still love the smell of a new book and can often be found stroking pages with beautiful illustrations. However, and thankfully, I have outgrown the tasting stage. 😉
January 3, 2020 at 9:31 am
Shutta Crum
Didn’t you just love that video? I’m afraid some folks missed it–which is too bad. Love those baby reviewers!!!
January 3, 2020 at 12:09 am
Rachel S. Hobbs Gunn
Entering!
January 3, 2020 at 12:16 am
Ona Feinberg
Thank you so much for this. It is just what I needed to hear as I start to be brave about putting my stories out there!
January 3, 2020 at 12:19 am
Mary Ann Blair
Great post. Thank you!!
January 3, 2020 at 12:20 am
Gaby Lagos
Place/Intention:
8 blocks from home
Dukon ( a schnauzer dog) has a problem with his legs, he loves to walk long distance but the snow makes him walk with three legs, and Belen ( seven years old girl) tries to get home with Dukon.
January 3, 2020 at 12:22 am
carmelamccainsimmons
Thank you for sharing the messy route to understanding our characters’ intentions. Very helpful!
January 3, 2020 at 12:22 am
Carol Gwin Nelson
What a great post! All that time with multiple drafts is just me finding my character’s intention.
January 3, 2020 at 12:26 am
viviankirkfield
Totally love this perspective of being at peace with what people say about our books (or art or whatever)…because we each come to a book/story with our own life experiences and the book/story will speak to us differently.
This post is so freeing and helpful to me, Shutta…thank you!
January 3, 2020 at 9:29 am
Shutta Crum
Hi, Vivian! Yes. It’s made me realize over the years that I go with my gut–but what someone else sees/finds is perfectly acceptable. And did you get a gander at the video? It’s a hoot!
January 3, 2020 at 12:27 am
Rebecca Herzog
This is great. Thank you!
January 3, 2020 at 12:30 am
Sue
Through my characters intention, I found my own!
January 3, 2020 at 12:34 am
Jill Tatara
Loved this post! Thank you!
January 3, 2020 at 12:35 am
Leah Kolidas
Great food for thought!
January 3, 2020 at 12:36 am
seschipper
Thanks Shutta! Great way of looking at “Intention”! Certainly puts it in perspective! The video…Wow! An added bonus! 🙂
January 3, 2020 at 9:28 am
Shutta Crum
Don’t ya just love those babies? Caregivers everywhere were so enthusiastic about sending me photos.
January 3, 2020 at 12:41 am
Vicki Wilke
Wow Shutta – your words are so helpful – just what I need!
January 3, 2020 at 12:41 am
Susanne Whitehouse
You have long since been my gold standard for nearly wordless picture books! Intention is a great thought to keep in my head as I develop characters and storylines. Thank you, Shutta!
January 3, 2020 at 12:43 am
Judith Snyder
I appreciate your thoughts on intention. It’s my word for the day. I’m definitely commenting with the intention of winning the critique.
January 3, 2020 at 12:44 am
Peggy Dobbs
Thank you for this wonderful and thought-provoking post. Watching the video of the many children enjoying books was inspiring too, as they are my reason for writing—no matter how they choose to experience the stories.
January 3, 2020 at 9:27 am
Shutta Crum
I hope folks do click on the video–it’s an absolute delight. All those bay reviewers!!! Glad you enjoyed it!
January 3, 2020 at 12:45 am
Megan J. Walvoord (@mjwalvoord2)
Intention. So important yet so different for each person.
January 3, 2020 at 12:48 am
kristiwright0600
I like the idea of true intentions and an honest revision! Thanks:)
January 3, 2020 at 12:50 am
catpledger
Those children are marvelous. I still lovee the smell of new books and can often be found beautiful pages. Thankfully I have outgrown the tasting part 😉
January 3, 2020 at 12:52 am
ruthgoringbooks
Fluid intentionality! Love it. After all, sometimes it takes decades for us to understand the layers of our OWN intentions at key points in our lives.
January 3, 2020 at 1:04 am
JillDanaBooks
Lots to think about with intentions and evolving intentions! Thanks Shutta!
January 3, 2020 at 1:04 am
Nancy Ramsey
Great post!! Thank you!!
January 3, 2020 at 1:05 am
Brenda Grant Lower
What a great article! I love it when intentions collide!
January 3, 2020 at 1:18 am
Rachel Funez
Wow. This post is chock full of helpful information for mining ideas, writing and revising! Thanks!
January 3, 2020 at 1:22 am
Amanda Malek-Ahmadi
Thank you for the insight on intention. That makes me want to go back to my longest manuscript and really question my main character’s intention. When I was writing that manuscript words were just falling on the page faster than I was thinking them.
January 3, 2020 at 1:23 am
jenniemacdonald
“the more you write the clearer all your characters’ intentions become”
This reminds me so much of play rehearsals as an actress. The more rehearsals–at the theatre and on my own–and the more performances, the clearer and more nuanced my character’s motivations and intentions became. When this happens in story writing, the greater the potential for the character to do anything, predictable or otherwise. Thank you.
January 3, 2020 at 1:27 am
Thelia Hutchinson
Thank you. Very informative.
January 3, 2020 at 1:34 am
Sandy Perlic
I love the quote Jennie commented on just above this–“The more you write the clearer all your characters’ intentions become.” So true. I’ll think more deeply today about how to bring out my character’s true intentions.
January 3, 2020 at 1:46 am
Terrie Hellard Brown
I love this post! One of my favorite parts of writing is watching the characters develop in surprising and unexpected ways. So much fun!
January 3, 2020 at 2:10 am
Ruthie
Great post. Gotta look into my intention in my drafts.
January 3, 2020 at 2:11 am
Robin Jordan
Intention… I find it so interesting that readers will have their own interpretation of the writer’s intent. This made me think of the many websites dedicated to the meaning of song lyrics. Listeners’ perceptions vary greatly as to what the lyrics “actually” mean. This can be applied to any creative art form- written word, visual, music, etc… Perception is in the eye of the beholder. What an interesting post. Thank you, Shutta!
January 3, 2020 at 2:16 am
claireannette1
“Oh! Is that what I wrote?” I had no idea. And that is okay!” Love this!!!
January 3, 2020 at 2:26 am
Natalie Lynn Tanner
SHUTTA: THANK YOU for the INSPIRATION!!! I will DEFINITELY NEED to go back to this post FREQUENTLY for reminders on intention!!!
January 3, 2020 at 2:37 am
kelliejanebyrnes
So true. Thanks for the reminder to be open to different intentions unfolding for characters as the work develops, even in picture books.
January 3, 2020 at 4:42 am
Jennifer Moore
Thank you for this – I’ll definitely be focusing on characters’ intentions now.
January 3, 2020 at 4:45 am
Kimberly Bower (gladeslibrarian)
This is so true! The characters and their intentions are no longer yours alone once your work is shared with others.
January 3, 2020 at 5:03 am
kateperidot
Great post. So true about others interpretation of your text.
Kate Peridot.
January 3, 2020 at 5:07 am
Elle Carlin
I love the idea of a slow reveal of multi-faceted intention… Off to plot another book!
January 3, 2020 at 6:46 am
Mindy Alyse Weiss
Thanks for this amazing post, Shutta. I’ve seen some people in the Facebook group say they’re worried about writing down bad ideas…and this shows everyone that we need to start with an idea that hits, and play around and let it surprise us before deciding if it’s one we want to use for a new manuscript.
January 3, 2020 at 2:05 pm
Shutta Crum
Hey, Mindy–my pal! Miss you. There aren’t any bad ideas–unless you personally should decide to act upon them–but for your charcters, anything goes. Go with the flow. See where it takes you. And then let your reader figure out where it takes them. Write on! Hugs.
January 3, 2020 at 6:52 am
Artelle Lenthall
Excellent reminder to just make art, the best art we can, because we can.
January 3, 2020 at 7:03 am
Nadine Poper
I love this line here, “It’s the surprises, the freshness, the sudden turns…” Thank you for this post.
January 3, 2020 at 7:04 am
Mahrukh
Wow, Tara. My mind is buzzing with ideas now. My intention is to go back to my PB stories and seriously see if the protag’ intention is clear.
Thank you for this great article!
January 3, 2020 at 7:43 am
Freda Lewkowicz
Thank you for the insights into intentions and the freedom of surprise twists and turns.
January 3, 2020 at 7:44 am
Jennifer Parker Raudenbush
I really appreciated your post. Thank you!
January 3, 2020 at 8:01 am
Brenna Becker
Getting some “butt-in-chair” work.done today. Thank you!
January 3, 2020 at 8:07 am
katievenit
I came up with a few ideas actually ABOUT intentions. 🙂
January 3, 2020 at 8:23 am
58chilihed13
thanks for the suggestions, sorry I am a day behind, hardware problems!
January 3, 2020 at 8:43 am
authoryvonafast
Thank you Shutta for this great post about figuring out your characters intentions – wants & needs – it is so important to character development and plot. So true: “The more you write the clearer all your characters’ intentions become.”
January 3, 2020 at 8:51 am
ptnozell
A thought-provoking post. Thank you, Shutta!
January 3, 2020 at 8:57 am
Alison Hedrick
Perfect post to read between writing today. Thank you, Shutta.
January 3, 2020 at 9:04 am
Lucy Staugler
Shutta,
I just had tons of idea light bulbs go off as I read your post! Fabulous insights!
Thank you!
Lucy
January 3, 2020 at 9:13 am
Virginia Law Manning
Thank you, Shutta! Very wise words! I find in our critique group, we often ask each other about the message or author’s intention. Until we figure this out we keep revising but don’t necessarily head in the right direction.
January 3, 2020 at 9:14 am
Sheri Dillard
Great post! Thanks, Shutta!
January 3, 2020 at 9:17 am
Lucky Jo Boscarino
I hadn’t intended to watch “How to Choose a Good Book” but I hit -play- and now I’m glad I did.
January 3, 2020 at 9:25 am
Shutta Crum
Don’t ya just love those babies and books!!!
January 3, 2020 at 9:33 am
Shutta Crum
Hey all! Be sure to click on the video. It’s a hoot!!!!! (Babies & books, what mre could you want?)
January 3, 2020 at 9:41 am
jennagrodzicki
This is wonderful advice. Thank you so much!
January 3, 2020 at 9:58 am
Louann Brown
Thanks for your post. (I’m already a day behind…eek!) I’ve always written off the top of my head, but your post reminded me to have SOME intention to make the path easier to navigate. Maybe if I do that, I’ll have less words to cut after the 1st draft.
January 3, 2020 at 10:04 am
Jane Baskwill
Thanks Shutta for your post. Intentionality is so important for the character as well as the author. Thanks for priming the pump for keeping it in mind!
January 3, 2020 at 10:07 am
Charlotte Offsay
A great reminder to dig a little deeper and create complete, full characters!
January 3, 2020 at 10:15 am
Kim Erickson
I just saw Knives Out yesterday. It’s a great case study in intention!
January 3, 2020 at 2:02 pm
Shutta Crum
Kim–i saw it too. Fun!
January 3, 2020 at 10:23 am
Brittanny Handiboe
I’ve struggled with making characters have a clear goal in my manuscripts like the example mentioned here. Don’t know why, but I find conflict and surprises more interesting to write! Maybe I should focus on giving my characters clear goals this month!
January 3, 2020 at 10:33 am
moviemommie
Thanks for the post reminding us of the importance of structuring and intention. Like the ice crystals post of day 1 – beauty seems random but rarely is – beauty is the result of hard work!
January 3, 2020 at 10:34 am
moviemommie
Jenna Feldman
January 3, 2020 at 10:42 am
M.R. Street
I absolutely relate to characters taking different paths than where you thought they were going. My characters do this to me quite a bit. (I mostly write about teenagers, so there you go.) I love your advice to “be open to serendipity and surprise.” Thanks for a thought-provoking post!
January 3, 2020 at 10:56 am
Nancy Ferguson
Thank you,Shutta. I’m still learning to embrace intentions that change as I write. It’s a good thing to have complex intentions…saying it again to myself.
January 3, 2020 at 10:59 am
colleenrkosinski
Great advice!
January 3, 2020 at 11:08 am
Karin Larson
This was such an enlightening and inspiring post, thank you!
January 3, 2020 at 11:20 am
kariail2013
Thank you for intentionally giving us great advice!
January 3, 2020 at 11:28 am
lizvoss1
Thanks. This was an interesting post. I agree it helps to think about your characters’ intentions as you write, and it is intriguing to think about how readers see your story in different ways.
January 3, 2020 at 11:28 am
Kim Larson
Great advice. Thanks!
January 3, 2020 at 11:43 am
jeanjames926
Thank you Shutta. I appreciate the different paths of intention, and the need to keep writing for clarity. Great advice!
January 3, 2020 at 11:44 am
Jane Dippold
Shutta, Thanks for your wonderful post on intention and the video. I love seeing little hands on all of those books!
January 3, 2020 at 2:08 pm
Shutta Crum
Jane–Thanks! I had so much fun making that video. Glad you enjoyed it. Hugs.
January 3, 2020 at 11:44 am
bookfish1
I enjoyed your short video of using the five senses to choose a good book, great baby pictures. Thanks
January 3, 2020 at 2:01 pm
Shutta Crum
Wasn’t that vid great! Loved those baby reviewers!
January 3, 2020 at 11:58 am
Alicia
Thank you! Looking for to writing with intention.
January 3, 2020 at 12:02 pm
Righter
I write a Thanksgiving poem invitation each year. I never verbalized intention as so important, but know that is what my audience must have. Thank you for saying this.
January 3, 2020 at 12:07 pm
Tiffany Painter
Great post to start the new year. Intention might just have to be my word for the year.
January 3, 2020 at 12:20 pm
nrompella
I love the focus on intention. Thanks for the post.
January 3, 2020 at 12:24 pm
heidikyates
Thank you for sharing, Shutta! This was a great post on intention.
January 3, 2020 at 12:27 pm
Laura Jean Watters
A slow reveal of real intention in order to sustain attention. Hmmm…now that’s something to chew on…
January 3, 2020 at 12:29 pm
Kimberlyk
Your post reminds me of something I heard in a poetry class – I’m paraphrasing – a word in a poem has to do double duty. Like an iceberg, there is the meaning above and meaning below. And credit goes to BJ Ward.
January 3, 2020 at 12:32 pm
Carolyne Ruck
It’s very freeing to know that when the reader interprets something quite differently than you intended, that’s just part of the process. Thanks for sharing your “intentional” process and the sometimes surprising ending!
January 3, 2020 at 12:44 pm
SueTK
I have always felt that my characters have hidden motives. 😂
January 3, 2020 at 12:50 pm
LaurenKerstein
What a wonderful post! I loved the video. It is very interesting to think about intentions and our characters. My brain is buzzing with thoughts and ideas!
January 3, 2020 at 1:26 pm
Rene` Diane Aube ~ Children's Author
Thanks for an informative post on intentions and how even are best ones can be read differently by art lovers. 🙂 Happy Story Storm!
January 3, 2020 at 1:31 pm
ingridboydston
You’ve given me much to think about, thank you!
January 3, 2020 at 2:01 pm
James Smith
Great article!
By Janus, it is my intention to do lots of writing this month!
January 3, 2020 at 2:15 pm
Aimee Satterlee
Thank you, Shutta, for sharing your writing process. Intention is very important in writing and in life…I think it’s one of Oprah’s favorite guiding words too. Now just to go apply this to my WIPs. Thanks again!
January 3, 2020 at 2:27 pm
Debbie Spotleson
Thank you Shutta! I found your post very inlightning and helpful. Intention is something that is part of our lives in every aspect. We all have intentions to do things whether we get them done or not, whether they are successful or not and then lead into others.
January 3, 2020 at 2:32 pm
Lynn Alpert
Great food for thought. Figure out your intention, then let it go.
January 3, 2020 at 2:44 pm
Julie LaCombe
Great look at intention of characters. This rings true for writing any type of book.
January 3, 2020 at 2:47 pm
Sarah Momo Romero
Yes! Intention is a great motivator.. hopefully I’ll think of some great ones for my characters. Thanks for the inspiration, Shutta!
January 3, 2020 at 2:51 pm
kathrynjeanhagen
Thank you, Shutta, for the great insights about intention! I know that I’ll use your ideas in my next story.
January 3, 2020 at 2:51 pm
mginsberg10
Thanks so much for your eye-opening post!
January 3, 2020 at 2:52 pm
Jennifer Hunt
My new focus word of 2020–Intention. 🙂
January 3, 2020 at 2:54 pm
Christine McDonnell
“the slow reveal of multifaceted intention” What a useful idea. Thanks!
January 3, 2020 at 2:55 pm
mginsberg10
Shutta, thanks so much for your eye-opening post!
January 3, 2020 at 2:58 pm
Melissa Richardson
I loved everything about this post, and your words are so clarifying. Thank you Shutta!
January 3, 2020 at 3:09 pm
storyfairy
It helps me a lot to know a character’s intention often needs to be discovered.
January 3, 2020 at 3:22 pm
deniseaengle
Hi Shutta! Inspiring post. Thank you for the insight into character intention. The part of your post that struck me most was the recognition that art takes on a life of its own, even after paper is inked and books are bound. Perceptions and experiences of the reader add unintentioned depth to every book. Thanks again! Denise Engle
January 3, 2020 at 3:37 pm
Connie Currie
I lost day 3. Will you please send it to me again. Connie Currie constancec@optomin.net
> WordPress.com
January 3, 2020 at 3:53 pm
Nora
Thank you! Even we ourselves are discovering new intentions every day!
January 3, 2020 at 4:53 pm
Elizabeth Brown
Great post! Thank you!
January 3, 2020 at 5:25 pm
8catpaws
Here’s hoping those wily characters clarify their intentions by the third draft!
January 3, 2020 at 5:40 pm
Jolie Stekly
Yes. Intention is so key.
January 3, 2020 at 5:50 pm
Anita Palmeri Overgaard
So it’s actually the road to heaven that is paved with good intentions! ❤
January 3, 2020 at 6:12 pm
Rebecca Gardyn Levington
What a great post! Thank you for sharing your wisdom with us!
January 3, 2020 at 6:13 pm
Jim Chaize
Very helpful post. Thanks, Shutta.
January 3, 2020 at 6:22 pm
Patti Richards, Children's Author
Thanks for this, Shutta! Such a good reminder that we must be intentional in our work so children can be free to make it their own!
January 3, 2020 at 6:36 pm
Audrey Day-Williams
Thank you, Shutta! I love all of this. I can’t wait to edit tonight and set intentions for me and my characters! Cheers!
January 3, 2020 at 6:55 pm
Brinton Culp
Intention has become an important word for me–thank you for sharing the importance of intention and the importance of letting go.
January 3, 2020 at 6:58 pm
Suzanne Alexander
Very insightful post. Thanks for the help, Shutta.
January 3, 2020 at 6:58 pm
Maria J Cuesta
Thank you for this wonderful post!
January 3, 2020 at 7:18 pm
Christine Fleming McIsaac
Great perspective on intention… the need to have it and the need to not worry if others done get it. Thanks!!
January 3, 2020 at 7:22 pm
Ellen Leventhal
Great post! Sometimes my characters’ intentions change TOO much for a picture book, but in that case, it helps me mine for ideas in a chapter book or MG. Thanks!
January 3, 2020 at 7:43 pm
Prairie Garden Girl
Your thoughts and words of wisdom are encouraging. The fact that a reader brings his/her life experiences to a story is so true.
Thank you, Shutta.
Suzy Leopold
January 3, 2020 at 7:53 pm
Carolyn Bennett Fraiser
So true. Sometimes our character’s intentions surprise us as authors. I had a professor once tell us that if there is no surprise for the author, there is no surprise for the reader. We have to learn to be flexible and let our character take us on that journey.
January 3, 2020 at 8:57 pm
denarose
Thanks for the inspiration!
January 3, 2020 at 9:11 pm
Noelle McBride
Thank you for sharing! Such a great thought to put it out there and let the work live on its own!
January 3, 2020 at 9:26 pm
frieswiththatblog
Thanks, Shutta. I have problems structuring my picture books and they tend to fizzle out in the middle. I’m going to try plotting using the main character’s intention and see where they end up.
January 3, 2020 at 9:34 pm
Nicole Loos Miller
Ooh, intentions! How many conflicts arise from misunderstood intentions! Both in books and in real life…
January 3, 2020 at 9:47 pm
kathydoherty1
A very enlightening post. Thank you, Shutta!
January 3, 2020 at 10:12 pm
sharongiltrow
Thank you Shutta for reminding us what we are writing and who we are writing for!
January 3, 2020 at 10:22 pm
Anne LeBlanc Gr 4/5 teacher (@AnneLeBlanc2)
Great ideas! Thanks!
January 3, 2020 at 10:33 pm
deirdreprischmann
Interesting point about how once your work is out there, readers can also give it life.
January 3, 2020 at 10:38 pm
Zoraida Rivera
Multifaceted intentions, that’s an interesting concept to consider in my work-in- progress. Letting it be known slowly… That ‘s something to think about and play with in my old ideas,too.
January 3, 2020 at 10:54 pm
kirstenpendreigh
It is amazing how readers can react so differently than we intended. And, how that can be a good surprise!
January 3, 2020 at 11:28 pm
candywellins
Good tips. Thanks for sharing.
January 3, 2020 at 11:43 pm
Vicky Howard
Very helpful concept in character formation. I actually hadn’t thought about intention in quite this way!
January 4, 2020 at 12:08 am
susanzonca
So good! Shutta, thanks for setting our intention. A great reminder that we need to fully understand our characters’ intentions and that comes through process of drafting and revising.
January 4, 2020 at 12:26 am
Lindsey McDivitt
Fascinating Shutta! Your post reminds me of our book club discussions in Ann Arbor. Miss those! A critique by you would be amazing!
January 4, 2020 at 1:13 am
Carrie Cook
Wow! This was a gem of a lesson. I found myself making note of so much of this. Thanks for the helpful insight!
January 4, 2020 at 3:16 am
Krystal Snead
I intend to write today, but I think my family have other intentions 🙁
January 4, 2020 at 3:27 am
lindseypopewrites
This really has the wheels in my brain spinning! The idea that came to mind is on the serious side, and that challenge excites me. It is a passion of mine to attempt to take a difficult topic and attempt to break in down in a way to help kids process and heal.
January 4, 2020 at 4:59 am
saintamovin
True intentions…thank you for clarifying😊
January 4, 2020 at 5:07 am
Mirka
What a cute video. I was also listening to a podcast today about books having a transformative power, and how we can do good as authors and illustrators. This supported that.
January 4, 2020 at 7:18 am
hmkingman
Shutta, thank you! I’ve a character whose antics have been driving my prose in an entirely lovely direction but I’ve failed to allow his intention to emerge in such a way that allows the audience perception/conception to rove. Perhaps letting go of some of that control will finally release this idea to become picture book reality! Wonderful!
January 4, 2020 at 8:41 am
Mita
I loved thinking back to my childhood. I thought back to playing in the bay window behind the curtains – our own little universe!
January 4, 2020 at 8:45 am
Cathy L. Murphy
“Perception and personally altered conception” is so profound, Shutta! Thank you for sharing your words of wisdom.
January 4, 2020 at 10:46 am
Louise Aamodt
I’m going to mull over how intention might play a role in NF writing that doesn’t have an obvious main character. Thanks for the food for thought.
January 4, 2020 at 11:27 am
jshaklan
Thank you!
January 4, 2020 at 11:30 am
Kari Gonzalez
Shutta, I love developing main characters and plots only to discover they have a mind of their own and take me in a completely different and surprising direction. Thank you for your lovely post!
January 4, 2020 at 11:40 am
Cathleen Collins
This describes the polarizing effect that art can have very well! Thanks for your thought provoking post.
January 4, 2020 at 11:47 am
Marcia Berneger
You are so right! Once you have your character’s intention, it’s interesting to then follow his (or her) twisting journey!
January 4, 2020 at 11:59 am
Deborah Clayton
This is such great information. Focusing on my main characters intention will hopefully get me unstuck and move forward with revisions! – Deborah Foster
January 4, 2020 at 11:59 am
Judy Sobanski
I will definitely give more thought to my characters’ intentions! Thanks, Shutta!
January 4, 2020 at 12:06 pm
cantsing1
Whoa! Is that what’s going on with my characters . . . ? Thanks so much for this.
January 4, 2020 at 12:29 pm
Janet Smart
Thanks for the post. I see that you write a variety of genres, so do I. But picture books are my first love!
January 4, 2020 at 12:59 pm
Dea
Thank you so much! Such great info, and perfect timing fir me too! I always have to remind myself to slow down…and this gave me permission!
January 4, 2020 at 1:22 pm
Kelly Rice Schmitt
Thank you Shutta!
I enjoyed thinking of the two sided Janus coin of intention at creation and publication.
January 4, 2020 at 2:07 pm
Ashley Bankhead
I love this idea of intention. Thank you for sharing. I’m ready to work on my character’s intentions today.
January 4, 2020 at 2:08 pm
meghandwrites
Great post!
January 4, 2020 at 2:24 pm
Dee Leone
Great insight into intention and characters.
January 4, 2020 at 2:31 pm
Dea Brayden
Thank you! “But it is clarity of intention that will then allow you to lead your reader to the heart of your story and to create a riveting plot.” Great post Shutta!
January 4, 2020 at 3:11 pm
Juliana Motzko
Thank you for sharing!! It made me look with new eyes for some characters and stories that I have in mind…
January 4, 2020 at 3:43 pm
Amelia Shearer
Love your insight into the effects of art once it enters public consumption! A good reminder of all that our readers/viewers/audience bring to the table and the importance of recognizing it!
January 4, 2020 at 4:01 pm
Angela Padron
Thank you for sharing your insight and advice. Very very helpful to think about when writing.
January 4, 2020 at 4:09 pm
Jill M Proctor
I enjoyed your thoughts on intention. I love how the best of intentions are often hijacked, leading to something even better or stronger. Thanks for your post, Shutta!
January 4, 2020 at 4:23 pm
kmajor2013
Great post, Shutta. I enjoyed your take on writing from a purely “intentional” perspective.
January 4, 2020 at 4:24 pm
Megan Whitaker
I think the idea of intention will help me as I write pitches for a number of my mss. Thanks!
January 4, 2020 at 4:33 pm
Pamela Haskin
Such a great post on intention! Thanks so much for sharing with us.
January 4, 2020 at 4:48 pm
Joannie Duris
Thanks, Shutta. Great point that clarity of intention lets us lead our readers to the heart of the story and create a riveting plot. And it may take several drafts to get to that core truth.
January 4, 2020 at 5:17 pm
sheriradford
Thanks for the reminder that each reader will interpret each story just a little bit differently.
January 4, 2020 at 6:07 pm
Andrew Fairchild
Thank you for sharing such wonderful insight on writing each day.
January 4, 2020 at 6:18 pm
Jocelyn Rish
Since I’m die-hard pantser, this really resonates with me – discovering the deeper intentions of my characters as I go.
January 4, 2020 at 6:22 pm
betlw
My intention, Shutta, is to come up with a story idea or two or maybe three from this post. I have a new way to look at stories. Thanks.
January 4, 2020 at 6:35 pm
susaninez0905
Thank you for these words of wisdom. So helpful as one struggles to get the story ‘just right.’
January 4, 2020 at 6:44 pm
Natasha S. Garnett
Do you have to comment every day to be eligible for prizes? Is there an easy way to check back if I can’t remember commenting? Thanks, Natasha
>
January 4, 2020 at 6:47 pm
Sara Matson
Thanks for sharing!
January 4, 2020 at 7:46 pm
thesheilster
Thanks for the insightful post. It’s a good reminder to really think about the intentions of your characters and to get to know them well.
January 4, 2020 at 8:19 pm
Lori Alexander
This tip just jiggled something loose regarding my MC’s intentions. Thanks for the great post!
January 4, 2020 at 10:09 pm
Krista Maxwell
Great advice!
January 4, 2020 at 10:14 pm
Carol Gordon Ekster
I absolutely love this, Shutta: “Art is not static. It’s a reenergizing force that zooms onward and outward to become . . . who knows? It takes on a life of its own—regardless of whatever you intended your work to do. And isn’t that wonderful?” Yes, it is wonderful! Thanks for the inspiration.
January 4, 2020 at 10:34 pm
wangliarron
It reminds me that I like to list a few key points and my intentions for the story before I start to write. And this blog makes it clearer. Thank you so much!
January 4, 2020 at 11:46 pm
Virginia Rinkel
Thanks for the advice, Shutta – especially about the art!
January 5, 2020 at 12:19 am
Stephanie Lau
Great post, thanks for sharing!
January 5, 2020 at 2:02 am
Lindsey Hobson
Thank you for this post! The intention is so important!
January 5, 2020 at 2:18 am
Jenny Read Stout
Thank you for the insightful post!
January 5, 2020 at 3:23 am
Tina Hoggatt (@tinahoggatt)
I adore this post.
January 5, 2020 at 5:03 am
LittleCornishWriter
Intention is the stage I’m at and this is so useful to read, thankyou.
January 5, 2020 at 8:33 am
doreenrobinson
Such a valid point – know thy (character’s) intention. I will focus on this as I write and revise.
January 5, 2020 at 8:47 am
Mardi Edwards
Time to get back to the intention of writing my stories and learning about my characters.
January 5, 2020 at 9:37 am
Lauri Meyers
Oh goodness, the “humble bumbling toward enlightenment” is the perfect description of characters (and frankly our lives!)
January 5, 2020 at 10:57 am
Alayne Kay Christian
Great post! Thank you Shutta. I love “What’s going on? Well, when your book is out, your poem published, your play performed, your music sung, or your artwork viewed, intention—like an untrustworthy friend—takes a scamper. Whatever you, as the creator of your work, intended your creation to do does not matter much. All that’s important is the perception and personally altered conception of it by your audience.
I’ve gotten reviews that made me scratch my head and say, “Oh! Is that what I wrote?” I had no idea. And that is okay!”
I think this is often a big shock to creatives. And I love how you wrap it all up in the end. There’s too many “love” moments to list, but I feel like this is a very important post for creatives.
January 5, 2020 at 12:02 pm
Cynthia Harmony
Fantastic post Shutta, thank you!
January 5, 2020 at 12:03 pm
marykatesmithdespres
I really needed to read this reminder that characters’ intentions can change. Also, I love that readers bring their own interpretations to a work!
January 5, 2020 at 1:06 pm
Jennifer Newkirk
Wow! Thank you! 💕
January 5, 2020 at 1:26 pm
margaretgreanias
Love, love, love this post. Thank you.
January 5, 2020 at 2:08 pm
Lynne Marie
Thanks so much for this thoughtful blog post, Shutta! Can’t wait to see you at SCBWI Florida!
January 5, 2020 at 2:35 pm
lanearnold
“Art is not static. It’s a reenergizing force that zooms onward and outward to become . . . who knows? It takes on a life of its own—regardless of whatever you intended your work to do. And isn’t that wonderful?” Great reminder!
January 5, 2020 at 4:07 pm
Diane Tulloch
Thank you for sharing.
January 5, 2020 at 4:46 pm
jessica shaw
Thank you, Shutta, I enjoyed your post!
January 5, 2020 at 5:39 pm
topangamaria
Left me with good intentions.
January 5, 2020 at 6:17 pm
lahewson
A great reminder. Thank you for sharing, Shutta.
January 5, 2020 at 6:58 pm
TerriMichels
Art & creativity is a live-long learning experience.
January 5, 2020 at 7:33 pm
jacquesartandbooks
Like you Shutta, I have been fortunate enough to hear someone (fine arts critique) claim that the artist (me) had ‘done this and that with great intention and created this…’ I thought about it and mentally took myself back to the easel and yes indeed, I had subconsciously done just that. Sometimes we don’t recognise our own intentions either 🙂
January 5, 2020 at 7:42 pm
Kaye Baillie
Thanks, Shutta. I am trying to keep my MC’s intention forefront as I write my pb bio. Most helpful.
January 5, 2020 at 8:33 pm
Dina Ticas
I’m going to work on layering my characters–so that more of who they are is slowly revealed.
January 5, 2020 at 8:33 pm
gabriellecardwell
“Oh! Is that what I wrote?” Love this! You never know how the work will be interpreted.
January 5, 2020 at 8:48 pm
Beth Schneider
Thanks for the insight!
January 6, 2020 at 10:52 am
David McMullin
Fantastic! Thank you, Shutta.
January 6, 2020 at 11:01 am
Laurel Ranveig Abell
Isn’t it said that good intentions pave the road to…well, you know where… I had great intentions to begin StoryStorm on day 1. And here it is day 6 already. BUT I’M HERE! Better late than never! Thanks for the inspiration!
January 6, 2020 at 11:40 am
Anne Weaver
Inspiring post! Thank you! LOVE “the reenergizing force zooming onward and outward.” Jumping on board, wherever it might take me–
January 6, 2020 at 11:44 am
Kelly Conroy
Thanks for the advice. I’ll pay more attention to intention!
January 6, 2020 at 12:12 pm
Dawn Young
Appreciate the great advice. Adorable video!
January 6, 2020 at 12:50 pm
kyavorski
” Whatever you, as the creator of your work, intended your creation to do does not matter much.” Wow. This is a bit humbling, but makes sense since so many people attribute motives to work despite what authors say.
January 6, 2020 at 2:25 pm
Bronte Colbert
Wonderful post, Shutta. Big Yes to “Art is not static”; I’ve always loved the concept of the continual, eternal play of energy between art and recipient. Thank you!
January 6, 2020 at 2:36 pm
Kathy Mazurowski
Intentions-got it thanks!
January 6, 2020 at 3:14 pm
Lindsay Robinson
The interplay between author, illustrator, and reader in creating meaning is one of the reasons I love picture books so much! Thanks for your post!
January 6, 2020 at 4:29 pm
Kassy Keppol
yay! two more ideas added to my list, by reading your post-thank you
January 6, 2020 at 4:38 pm
Heather Gallagher
Food for thought 😀
January 6, 2020 at 5:03 pm
Sherrijam
Excellent ideas! The book review video was very enlightening! Thank you.
January 6, 2020 at 5:06 pm
Heidi M. Rogers (@heidimrogers)
Great reminder! Thank you!
January 6, 2020 at 6:12 pm
kltwrites
I loved that term “humble bumbling” to find the character’s intent.
January 6, 2020 at 7:40 pm
Sherry Smith
I never thought of intention in relation to P.B.s, more of a middle grade to YA concept relating to the characters. Thanks!
January 6, 2020 at 7:40 pm
Catherine Crosby
This is a good reminder of how art takes on its own life once it is published.
January 6, 2020 at 9:08 pm
Sheila Keegan
Great ideas about clarifying intentions. I will try this on my own story today. Thanks!
January 6, 2020 at 9:56 pm
Meredith Fraser
I have definite intentions to get several WIP from my Storystorm ideas!!Thank you
January 7, 2020 at 12:20 am
Dani Duck
Thank you for this post about intentions. It was very illuminating!
January 7, 2020 at 2:12 am
Naana
Thanks Shutta for your thought provoking post on intention
January 7, 2020 at 7:22 am
Stacey Corrigan
This post highlights so many of the complexities of writing. Thanks for the insight.
January 7, 2020 at 10:30 am
Sarah Skolfield
I took notes on this post and copied out one sentence that really spoke to me: “Yes, it can be a lot of work wandering around lost for a good deal of time to get clear on intention.” This is just a great reminder that it is okay if the words don’t come pouring out of you and that putting in the effort to stick with it will get you where you need to go. I also now need to go buy a t-shirt that says “all who wander are not lost” because that phrase now has a different motivational meaning for me.
Thank you, Shutta, for the inspiring words. Thank you, Tara, for Storystorm.
January 7, 2020 at 10:46 am
Heather Thurmeier
a good lesson on how to study characters more fully before the writing part even begins. Thanks!
January 7, 2020 at 10:56 am
suzannepoulterharris
Great point to remember … “clarifying intention happens through a process of discovery.”
January 7, 2020 at 11:52 am
Mindy
Intention is my north star, always.
Thank you for reminding us that once our art is out in the world, it’s no longer ours.
January 7, 2020 at 11:58 am
leahpsmoser
Such great advice. Thank you for your insight!
January 7, 2020 at 1:00 pm
Kyle McBride
Very interesting. Beauty is in the eye of the beholder.
January 7, 2020 at 2:26 pm
shereentv
“…clarifying intention happens through a process of discovery; the more you write the clearer all your characters’ intentions become.” This is me when I write…just never put it in words to explain my process. Thank you for your post!
January 7, 2020 at 3:04 pm
Wendy
My characters and I often disagree on what my story is about, lol. I like your advice to embrace their intention and see where the story goes. Thanks for the advice, Shutta.
January 7, 2020 at 3:40 pm
phyllisharris50
Shutta, I heard you speak at an SCBWI conference last May and love the way you inspire writers and challenge us with your amazing experience and knowledge. I haven’t thought enough about INTENTION but I surely will now, so thank you!
January 7, 2020 at 5:14 pm
Kate Thackray Edwards
This was really interesting, thank you x
January 7, 2020 at 6:44 pm
jenwritespbs
Great post! I hadn’t thought of intention quite like that before.
January 7, 2020 at 7:29 pm
Lucretia Schafroth
Shutta, Thank you for sharing your insights on “intention”–this post is a great reminder of this critical aspect of character development, without which most stories/ plots can’t be fully engaging to readers.
January 7, 2020 at 7:34 pm
Sylvia Chen
Thank you for this post Shutta. “All that’s important is the perception and personally altered conception of it by your audience.” <– so true!!
January 7, 2020 at 9:44 pm
gingermeurer
Great post! It’s easy to forget that picture books are about so much more than plot! Thank you, Shutta!
January 7, 2020 at 10:40 pm
writeremmcbride
Great post, and valuable ideas, Shutta! Relinquishing the idea that everyone should come away with your intended interpretation of the story is certainly advisable. One sees that in poetry as well. Congratulations on the coming publication of your poetry!
January 7, 2020 at 11:09 pm
Joyce Frank
So tantalizing to get that buzz of a character making his or her own decisions. How to get there? How to get there?
January 8, 2020 at 2:02 am
Shar
I love this! THANK YOU!
January 8, 2020 at 6:57 am
Nat Keller
Thank you Shutta! This post has inspired me to work and further develop the illustrations on a past manuscript 🙂
January 8, 2020 at 10:02 am
rgstones
Thanks for a great post. It’s always fun to see what character’s want to do when it wasn’t what I intended. 🙂
January 8, 2020 at 11:18 am
Erin Forrester
Thank you for this Shutta! After a draft or two has been written – to go back and revisit intention has been eye opening!
January 8, 2020 at 12:15 pm
Amelia Gossman
Thank you for the inspiring post! This is a different approach for my writing, but I think it could really inspire a more interesting plot.
January 8, 2020 at 3:25 pm
angelcat2014
Good reminder of how intention can change and create a plot twist. The video at the end of the post was cute. Thanks. 🙂
January 8, 2020 at 4:06 pm
Jodelle A Brohard
What a great post!
January 8, 2020 at 4:31 pm
Julie Augensen-Rand
It never fails, I always come away with some great nugget from your teachings. Thank you for an enlightening post.
January 8, 2020 at 5:50 pm
Janine Johns
Thank you for a great post with a lot to think about.
January 8, 2020 at 6:10 pm
Jilanne Hoffmann
Intention is that slippery eel that dives deeper as you struggle to capture it. Thanks for a great post!
January 8, 2020 at 7:29 pm
tiffanydickinson
After the first three paragraphs, I already got ideas for intention of two of my characters. Thank you, Shutta!
January 8, 2020 at 9:08 pm
vijikc
thank you for your post. As a planned writer, I should allow for surprises during the writing process.
January 8, 2020 at 9:37 pm
Lindsay Ellis
“Enjoying art is a personal experience.” Can I get an amen? Thanks, Shutta!
January 10, 2020 at 11:46 pm
thedandelionzoo
Thank you for the insight for characters.
January 11, 2020 at 7:40 am
Brenda Whitehead
This is what I need to do more of–the thought work behind the characters. Thanks for the great insight!
January 11, 2020 at 12:26 pm
Laura
Thank you for sharing your knowledge-intention is important…and yet, it’s not! Art is wonderful.
January 11, 2020 at 2:36 pm
Elizabeth Metz
This is so true! And while it’s a super cool and beautiful extra layer to books, it’s also an important reminder for me that while we can’t control what a reader brings to a story, we can consider thoughtfully what we might have baked into our stories (especially picture books that can tend toward oversimplified symbolism.) It’s worth doing a round of revision where I make sure I haven’t…. just as a wild, out-of-nowhere example… accidentally baked protectionist anti-immigrant undertones into a story meant to be about introversion and the value of alone time. Or whatever. 😂
January 11, 2020 at 4:47 pm
Laurel Goodluck
Thank you! I’ll apply intention to my current work.
January 11, 2020 at 5:56 pm
Rebecca
Great advice to stay on track! Appreciate the insight.
January 12, 2020 at 8:53 pm
Kim Wilson
I needed this post today – thank you!
January 13, 2020 at 1:41 am
Susan Twiggs
Intentions will lead me to the heart of my story. Ah that’s worth searching for.
January 13, 2020 at 3:37 pm
Viviane Elbee
Thank you for sharing this post!
January 13, 2020 at 6:43 pm
Susan Orton
Thank you so much for this perfect piece! Everything you touched on was exactly what I needed to hear at this point in my writing journey. I’m doing revisions on many stories and your advice has cleared my head for a direction forward. When the student is ready a teacher appears. Thank you!!
January 14, 2020 at 10:30 am
Dawn M.
Intention and perception. Great post. Thanks for sharing!
January 14, 2020 at 4:07 pm
shirley301
Thanks Shutta for bringing intention to our atttention.
January 15, 2020 at 12:12 pm
Kelly Vavala
First of all I love your name! Second, I enjoyed this post very much! Just when you thought you knew what their intentions were, they go and change them on you…who does? You do? So funny! Important, not so much! But it is intended to be so.
January 15, 2020 at 2:34 pm
wendymyersart
Really cute video on how to pick a book! Thanks for the enjoyable post. Love your work.
January 15, 2020 at 3:43 pm
Caren
Great insight on intention. I’ve just been reading another book about perception that fits right in.
January 15, 2020 at 9:23 pm
Janet Halfmann
Thanks for the advice to include more surprises!
January 16, 2020 at 11:51 am
Shawna JC Tenney
This really got me thinking about story intent and how it can change as you write. Thank you!
January 16, 2020 at 2:00 pm
dlapmandi
Such a great post about intention. Both the author’s as well as your character’s intention. Thanks for the post.
January 16, 2020 at 10:09 pm
angiecal76
Wise words. Shutta. Until we journey a bit aimlessly with our characters, it’s hard to really know their intentions. Patience is hard work but well worth it in the end.
January 17, 2020 at 5:03 pm
Sharalyn
Intention. Certainly a good word. & thank you for your thoughtful analysis of how this applies to our characters.
January 18, 2020 at 9:07 pm
Nancy Kotkin
Thanks for the insightful, and truthful, post about intention from both sides of the coin – the writer and the reader.
January 20, 2020 at 10:21 am
Kaitlin Hedberg
“…the realistic and humble bumbling toward enlightenment…” Well said and inspiring! Thank you!
January 20, 2020 at 5:39 pm
Karen Rafeedie
Hi Shutta. “The more you write the clearer your characters’ intentions become.” This really resonated with me. Thank you for your fresh perspective!
January 20, 2020 at 5:54 pm
Sue Fritz
A great post on intention. It really hits home for me in figuring out my charcater’s motives and actions.
January 22, 2020 at 3:20 pm
Lisa Tolin (@lisatolin)
Thank you! This is something I have not spent enough time sitting with. I appreciate the wisdom!
January 22, 2020 at 4:55 pm
Jacqueline Adams
I like the point that clarifying intention comes through a process of discovery. I think remembering that could help us not to give up on a discouraging early draft.
January 24, 2020 at 12:06 pm
imagination4lf
Thank you so much for sharing, Shutta. I will focus on my characters intentions moving forward. I love Mouseling’s Words.
January 25, 2020 at 1:30 am
Terri Sabol
Thank you for sharing! And cute video!
January 25, 2020 at 3:21 pm
McCourt Thomas
Great post! Thank you!
January 28, 2020 at 5:59 pm
anneiversonbellsouthnet
Something so critical and often overlooked: intent. Thanks for calling attention to the importance of our character’s intent and how often things change as our stories develop. Great post, Shutta!
January 31, 2020 at 9:02 pm
kmshelley
Awesome post! Thanks!
February 1, 2020 at 1:36 pm
LJ Laniewski
Who knew that Janus was the god of beginnings? I feel like I might be the only one who didn’t know this. I love this intention setting post of yours. I am not only going to be more deliberate in setting intentions for my characters, but also myself. Thank you!
February 1, 2020 at 5:47 pm
sheriradford
It’s endlessly fascinating to me how the reader of a book will find things in it that the author has no idea are there.
February 1, 2020 at 5:57 pm
shellshock7
thank you!
February 5, 2020 at 11:14 pm
CindyC
Your advice about intention is great. Thanks for a wonderful post.