The Write Publish guide of how to choose a story idea

Oct 9, 20234 min read

Updated: Oct 17, 2023

The Write Publish guide of how to choose a story idea

The Write Publish initial step in writing a fiction book is to develop a compelling story idea. This idea serves as the foundation of your book. It could be a question you want to answer, a situation you want to explore, or a character you want to bring to life. Make sure you're passionate about it, as you'll be spending a lot of time with this idea.

The Importance of a Story Idea

Choosing a story idea is like laying the first brick of your book's foundation. It sets the tone for the entire narrative and guides you through the writing process. A well-thought-out idea can distinguish between a book that resonates with readers and one that falls flat. It's the seed from which your story will grow, the nucleus around which your characters, plot, and themes will revolve.

The Many Avenues to Inspiration

Inspiration can come from many sources, and understanding where to look can help you find the perfect idea for your story. Here are some common routes to inspiration:

Archetypal Themes: Classic themes like good vs evil, the hero's journey, or love conquering all have been explored in various ways across different stories. For example, "Harry Potter" and "Star Wars" delve into the theme of good vs evil but set it in different worlds with unique characters.

Personal Experiences: Sometimes, the best stories come from our own lives. Memoirs, autobiographies, or fictional stories inspired by real events can be incredibly compelling. Kathryn Stockett's "The Help" was inspired by her own life growing up in the South.

Historical Events: Books like "All the Light We Cannot See" or "The Book Thief" draw from real historical events to create a compelling narrative.

Current Events: Stories ripped from the headlines can be both timely and timeless. Think of how George Orwell's "1984" was inspired by the political climate of his time.

Myths and Legends: From "The Lord of the Rings" to "Percy Jackson," myths and legends provide a rich tapestry to draw from.

Stunning Locations: Sometimes, the setting can inspire the story. The Isle of Wight, with its stunning landscapes and rich history, could be the perfect backdrop for a mystery or romance novel.

Skills and Hobbies: Your own skills and hobbies can be a great source of inspiration. If you're a chef, perhaps your story revolves around a magical kitchen. If you're into gardening, maybe your protagonist discovers a plant with special properties.

Other Works of Art: Sometimes, a painting, a movie, or even a song can spark the imagination. The melancholy of a Chopin nocturne, the vibrant colours of a Van Gogh painting, or the intricate plot of a Christopher Nolan movie could be the starting point for your story.

Dreams and Daydreams: Never underestimate the power of your own subconscious. Keep a dream journal; you might find your next big idea coming while you're asleep.

Appreciation of Skills: Sometimes, recognizing what you're good at can be the key to discovering what you should write about. If you have a knack for creating tension, perhaps a thriller is the way to go. A poetic or literary piece might suit you best if you have a way with words.

How to Choose a Story Idea?

1. Brainstorm: Take a notebook and jot down any ideas that come to mind. Don't filter yourself at this stage.

2. Research: Look at what's already out there. What are the gaps in the market? What can you bring to the table?

3. Consult: Talk to friends, family, or writing groups. Sometimes, an outside perspective can provide valuable insights.

4. Passion Check: Make sure it's a subject or a story you are passionate about. You'll be spending months, if not years, working on this.

5. Feasibility: Is the story too big to handle? Too small to fill a book? Make sure it's something you can realistically complete.

By exploring these avenues and asking these questions, you'll be well on your way to choosing a story idea that excites you and resonates with readers. Let's now move on to some writing suggestions: