What is the best way of keeping your novel writing a secret, without making people concerned that you are a loner? Because writing requires you to have solitude and to be mindful (I actually imaging scenes in my head before writing), how can I do this?
Also, if you tell someone you are writing, it may jinx the whole project, and cause you to abandon your project (especially if you are writing for the first time).
Any guidelines would be much appreciated.
If you're worried about jinxing your project, just find something steadfast to motivate you. Who gives a crap what others say? I heard that JK Rowling was rejected around a dozen times before Harry Potter finally broke through, and that story is a reference point for authors now. Don't let sharing your idea with someone else be enough to kick your story underground.
Lying is never a good idea, but maybe you can make it seem like you have another obligation (just something to reduce questioning on why you are alone so much). Or when you're around your friends, make it clear you aren't a loner, be extra engaged, just show them that you're totally good, if you are worried about them being concerned. But I honestly wouldn't worry about it too much.
Just go for it while maintaining a balance. And also - if you really want to take this somewhere, which I'm sure you have the capability to do, why hide from people? You'll have to get it out sometime, right?
Good luck with your story.
If your friends ditch you for pursuing a possible second career in writing then you need to find better friends. You don't have to become a loner to write a novel. You can still be extroverted and pursue writing. A matter of fact, being an extrovert can actually help when you seek feedback from your close friends. I wish I had close friends who were willing to read my work. You can collaborate with them or just use your friends as a focus group.
Don't give up.
What I say if some one asks me what I'm doing on the weekend I be really vague.(unless they are asking me out) I say that I probably should work on a story, and act like you aren't too keen on it. For me, it works every time.
