Screenwriting vs. Novel Writing

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For the past few years I've worked strictly on screenplays. I've read countless books and articles, and listened to hundreds of podcasts. Now that I'm working on novels, I'm realizing they don't seem much different. Obviously there's a lot less writing in a script, but the story rules seem the same.

Has anyone else gone from writing screenplays to novels? Ever use a screenplay-type formula for a book?

Comments

Jolene Perry said…
Nope, but I would imagine doing either would help with the other. I think doing screenplays would help, I bet you write better dialogue than some books I've read.
August 6, 2010 at 12:51 PM
Angie said…
I haven't ever tried screenplays. But writing is writing, I think and what is important for one will be important for the other, if maybe executed differently. Good luck!
August 6, 2010 at 3:25 PM
Stephanie said…
Never done it...but I have thought about trying a screenplay. When I write my novels, I basically run the scene in my head like a movie and write down what I see! :)
August 6, 2010 at 10:08 PM
Lorel Clayton said…
I wrote screenplays before switching to novels, and they were a wonderful way of learning how to tell stories, maintain tension, and develop believable dialogue.

As for blending the two structures (novels are a bit different, with smaller Acts I&III and a double length Act II), I always try to employ the mid-point reversal used in screenplays to liven up that long middle of the novel. Keeps me from getting bored.
August 15, 2010 at 9:03 PM
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