Failing NaNoWriMo2020 and Theremini Adventures

I have to confess when October was coming to a close, and I thought I would dive headfirst into writing a full-length novel for this year’s NaNoWriMo; boy, was I wrong.

I had no idea what I would write besides fiction, no plot, no character outline, and no idea what I was doing. Jumping into the deep end, it’s no wonder I quickly fell out of sync with working on my “novel.”

On top of everything else going on in the world, Salt Lake City, and my personal life, I figured out that I didn’t have the gumpf to write a novel right now; instead, I ended up writing a couple of short stories and a few poems.

What I do have written for this year’s NaNoWriMo (a measly 6k) could be a good start. Although I was trying not to write anything spooky, I get the impression; it will most likely be a psychological thriller/ghost story.

What else have I been up to?

I finished reading Lovecraft Country, and it was great! A fun read that had good plot twists and a range of captivating characters.

Moog Theremini

I bought one, finally, a theremin. After a few months of researching, I decided to get the Moog Theremini because it’s easy to tune, comes with a built-in speaker, and can connect easily with my DAW for recording. Plus, it has 32 presets of classic Moog synth sounds, which are excellent. This has been tons of fun learning how to play it and make some incredibly versatile sounds that I plan on using.

Currently Reading

The Wind-Up Bird Chronicle by Haruki Murakami 

The Wind-Up Bird Chronicle
photo source: goodreads.com

Murakami is probably one of the most talented contemporary writers in the world. His stories blend isolation and a hint of the otherworldly in his unique style.

I decided to pick up this chunky 600-something-page book and give it a shot. I’m already a sixth of the way through, and it’s an absorbing read. I’ve read other works by Murakami, but I can understand why this book is one people highly recommend when discussing his work.

Beta Reads

I am available for Beta Reads if anyone is looking for feedback on their poems, short stories, novellas, and novels. I read a slew of genres, including Sci-Fi, Fantasy, Romance, Literary, Mystery, Horror, and Thriller. Feel free to contact me through Fiverr if you’re interested in my services.

To my subscribers, expect more poems! I am dredging the hundreds of poems I’ve written and published on this blog. I’ve been handpicking select poems just for you while I brainstorm up writing tips. As usual, don’t hesitate to respond or strike up a conversation with me. I love discussing poetry, writing, and literature.

Have a wonderful week, and stay safe out there!

https://www.alinahappyhansenwriter.com/2017/03/27/short-story-sample-the-tenant/

NaNoWriMo 2020 and Staying Busy

Yesterday was Election day, but because this year is weird and COVID-19 has changed how things are done, I think this turned into Election week.

For the past few weeks, I’ve been staying busy and staying home. Utah’s daily case counts have been steadily getting higher, and we’ve already had a few days where ten people die every day.

I finished Inktober. It was a lot of fun and an excellent way to keep my mind off the impending Election. And now, I’m going to stay busy by participating in NaNoWriMo this year.

For NaNoWriMo, I wanted to take a crack at general fiction, but with what I’ve written already, it looks like it’s going to be a ghost story.
Of course.

This year has been brutal, and I feel like I’m running out of steam. I want it to be over. Emotionally drained, tired, and staying focused on work, that’s all I can do for now and make the best out of the rest of the year.

I’m accepting Beta Read inquiries if anyone has any short stories, novellas, or novels they need read and reviewed. I just finished conducting a Beta Read for a short story this week, and I have an open schedule for the rest of the month.

Dear Subscribers,
This week’s newsletter did not go out but expect one on Monday! I am working on some poems, and I would like to write up a quick tip for writers.

I’d love to connect with other writers participating in NaNoWriMo this year, and I am looking for a writing buddy. Leave a comment or message me if you’re interested.

As usual, I’m open to recommended reading, articles, and writer’s resources if you have any you would love to share.

Have a wonderful day and stay safe out there, my friends!

Cheers,
Alina