One problem with taking turns in a creative writing collaboration is the issue of time. A scene may be moving along nicely, with all players active and posting regularly – and then the scene is stuck on hold.

A player in another time zone goes to bed. A person with a job might have to leave from work. Parents tend to children. The game is paused temporarily while waiting for a player to take his turn.

The thrill of the fast-paced action may seem to quickly lose its attraction. After all, who really enjoys “stay tuned until the next episode”?

But the anticipation of what’s to come – and when it might occur – can be just as great a feeling as the rush of high action.

Some players even find themselves torn up while waiting for the next action to occur. Will the characters get away? Will the enemy shoot? Will someone be hurt? Will the kiss happen? The page can’t be turned, and the possibilities run amok in people’s minds. These unanswered questions are worth their weight in gold.

The anticipation builds. And then the post happens – and it’s as good as a rush of high to a starved junkie.