27

I heard a writer talking about pantsing a story. What does that mean?

Improve this question
0

1 Answer 1

Reset to default
21

"Pantsing" refers to simply writing a story without much, if any, preparation or pre-writing -- just writing down whatever comes to you, and letting the story go (and wander) wherever it feels like at the moment you're writing it down.

As for etymology, I'm not sure where it comes from. In general, "pantsing" refers to a prank in which you pull someone's pants down, but I'm not sure how that plays into the idea of writing (aside from the fact that both can be surprising).

Improve this answer
3
  • 13
    It probably has something to do with riding "on the seat of your pants"
    – StrixVaria
    Nov 18, 2010 at 20:58
  • 4
    Pantsing refers to seat of your pants writing, just as mipadi said. I asked the question to put it out there. ;-)
    – Elizabeth Schechter
    Nov 18, 2010 at 21:15
  • 3
    @StrixVaria - "flying by the seat of your pants" maybe? That's the way I've only ever heard it
    – Ralph Lavelle
    Dec 6, 2011 at 10:35

Your Answer

By clicking “Post Your Answer”, you agree to our terms of service and acknowledge you have read our privacy policy.

Not the answer you're looking for? Browse other questions tagged or ask your own question.