National Novel Writing Month inspires students

During the month of November, writers from around the country participate in National Novel Writing Month. Their objective is to write a 50,000-word novel during the month, and several ESU students have joined the challenge.

“One of the nice things about NaNo is that really, as much as it is about trying to get that 50,000 word mark, the point of it is more to just write something every day,” said Nathan Atherton, participant and sophomore English major.

Participants from around the country are able to connect by creating a profile on nanowrimo.org, which offers motivation, inspiration for writing and keeps track of writers’ word counts.

“Having others who are also doing it really helps,” said Zachary Palmer, participant and junior interdisciplinary studies major.

Atherton, who has participated since 2013, said that he likes NaNoWriMo because it gives him incentive to write beyond homework.

“It’s both that I want to write more and it’s also just the challenge of it,” Atherton said. “Knowing that this is something that not everybody does and not everybody can do.”

If the challenge is completed, winning participants are able to print off a certificate. Atherton has completed the 50,000 word challenge only once since he began participating in NaNoWriMo.

“I was at an airport when I finished (his novel),” Atherton said. “Chasing that feeling of being in that airport at 10 o’clock at night on Nov. 30 knowing that I have 24 hours to finish, wanting to replicate that feeling of just wanting to scream out in joy, is really what keeps me going.”

Ellen Plumb’s City Bookstore offers writing time for those who want to participate in NaNoWriMo at 4 p.m. Friday nights during November.