Having reviewed some YouTube videos and articles on the art of writing, I think I have found a solution (at least one that works for me) to the problem of writer's block with the Firebird. I now have a partial framework laid out in scene-by-scene fashion, along with a summary of what each scene is meant to accomplish. When I get stalled on that, I work on one of the scenes. When inspiration for a scene plays out, I go back to the framework.
I am finding that this has two benefits beyond that of my writing something---anything---to keep moving forward. Having a framework at least partially done prompts me to consider how whatever scene I am currently writing will fit into the overall movement of the story and how it will move plot and characterization forward. In switching over to work on the framework, the developing scenes cause me to consider whether the framework needs revision---a character's arc and growth as explored in a scene may cause me to realize that events need to move in a different order than originally planned to best develop the overall idea and the emerging subplots.
With a half-finished framework and a bunch of undeveloped scenes, I'm still a long way from having a finished manuscript. But at least I'm enjoying myself and making progress again. Don't know if this will help the writers among you, but I hope it's at least worth considering. Happy writing!
I am finding that this has two benefits beyond that of my writing something---anything---to keep moving forward. Having a framework at least partially done prompts me to consider how whatever scene I am currently writing will fit into the overall movement of the story and how it will move plot and characterization forward. In switching over to work on the framework, the developing scenes cause me to consider whether the framework needs revision---a character's arc and growth as explored in a scene may cause me to realize that events need to move in a different order than originally planned to best develop the overall idea and the emerging subplots.
With a half-finished framework and a bunch of undeveloped scenes, I'm still a long way from having a finished manuscript. But at least I'm enjoying myself and making progress again. Don't know if this will help the writers among you, but I hope it's at least worth considering. Happy writing!