This thesis investigates the composition process in long, narrative fiction. Using a novel written by myself, the stages of the writing process will be discussed and examined in relation to the textual elements of concept, sequence, and the vehicles of characterization. Practical lessons will be related to critical theory in order to draw comparisons between the two. The creation of a personal methodology, proactive approaches to planning, exploitation of the drafting environment, and the organization and maximization of customized revision and editing strategies will be explored.

It will be shown that a progressive view towards process may be taken, permitting large challenges to be broken down into understandable and manageable portions and divided across multiple recursive operational stages. An organic perspective towards the project, combined with a holistic system of text management, enables each stage to be developed reliably and with a sense of overall control.