Why no blogging about that process? First, writing about the writing is anathema to the actual writing. Second, this began as an idea that I may have wished to bury, rather than reveal. It turns out I am fired up about putting it on.
The process in a nutshell: Much of the play I wrote over two visits to my family shack on the cliff between Austinmer and Thirroul (Facebook friends of the artist can see more here) where, apart from the joyous air and the sound of the sea I HAVE NO INTERNET connection.
Then, as my laptop has developed funny malfunctions like no space-bar or delete key (even now I am pasting spaces, it is time for a repair!) I printed what I had and stuck it in a scrapbook and hand-wrote around the sections I already had (I could and did have this book on hand anywhere and everywhere to catch moments of inspiration - when I had formerly done this with text-message drafts..). It was useful and fun to write the old-fashioned way and was also a tactic I remember Mr Chris Mead recommending. Certainly more practical when it comes to writing in windswept locations for extra inspiration..
Finally, I typed almost the whole thing out from beginning to end. Celebrating with a glass of wine I excitedly read aloud and checked over the whole thing. PHEW! It seemed good at that point but I was all drunk in the afterglow of achievement (and, well, the wine).
NEXT: I have sent it to some trusted friends for their feedback and focused on where and when and how I will stage it next year. Taking a welcome break from creating and an important pause to get fresh perspective on it.
Looking forward to re-reading and wondering what the hell I was thinking..
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