Plotting a Novel

The only novel I found extremely difficult to write was one that I plotted chapter by chapter. When I write I like my characters to have the ability to surprise me. However, if they try to 'get out of hand' they do need to be put firmly in their place. I also like twists and turns in the plot to take me by surprise.

Before I begin writing I complete detailed character profiles for the main protagonists and name them. I have to visualise them walking, talking, going about their daily lives and understand their aspirations and fears etc.

When I begin a the novel I know what the middle and ending will be, the rest is an exciting journey for my characters and  quite often for myself when I visit places of historical interest.

Love and Marriage - 17th c.poem

My isp was playing up this morning so I am posting much later than usual.

There is no happy life
But in a wife;
The comforts are so sweet
When they do meet.

Two figures but one coin;
So do they join,
Only they do not embrace,
We face to face.

William Cavendish. Duke of Newcastle (17th century)