Do you write with a plan in mind? Do you commit it on paper, or not? Do you prefer spontaneous storytelling over arcitechural plotting? Do you think there are any setbacks of outlining or writing without an outline?
I want to glean people's opinion on this matter, because I can't decide for myself which is more preferable to me. Whenever I write a story without outlining beforehand, the story seems filled with contradiction, and I feel like I have no control, as though it's as spontaneous as dreaming. I don't know whether this is how it's supposed to work or not, so if you're a write that prefer's the spontaneous approach, would you mind telling me what it's like while you write?
When I outline, on the other hand, details emerge not just in the story, but in the characters and setting, as well. But outlining can take a long time, and sometimes I wonder whether it would be more efficient just to write the story, without fiddling with ideas.
Perhaps all that's necessary to collect details is some critical thinking, which doesn't have to involve outlining. When most people refer to outlining, they think of plotting. But I consider outlining more than just plotting. I consider compiling data about your characters and setting on paper as outlining, as well, not just plotting.
What would you guys suggest I do? Am I supposed to feel like I don't have any control? That the story is as sporadic as a dream, while I'm writing?
As of right now, I feel as though I'm in between the two extremes..
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