Part 1, Section 11, False Starts Summary and Analysis

The title for this chapter, and its content, deals with beginning a story yet going nowhere. Anne's point is to encourage writers to spend enough time with their characters to take many journeys. The journeys may or may not work into the final story. However, only through time will a writer be able to delve into different facets of every character.

Anne illustrates the point by sharing the story of her visits to a senior citizen home. Over the four years she spent with the residents, Anne learned there is more than what immediately presents itself. At first Anne focuses on the somewhat tragic nature of their circumstances. As the time continues she discovers the individual life stories of the residents.