Answer: I have no idea — even after writing nine of them. Maybe some authors have a formula that produces consistent results, but for me, the question is too nuanced to allow for a simple solution.
Back in the early days of my Quest for Publication, I was equipped with naught but a trusty Pilot pen, a five-subject Mead notebook, and a plethora of ideas. Eventually, I upgraded to a keyboard and computer.
I had the pleasure of talking with students at Waupun High School yesterday. My mission: to share my educational background, professional writing experiences, writing advice, and tips for getting published with the fledgling writers.
Whether they are still in the planning phase, frantically pounding out the first draft, or up to their elbows in edits, here are a handful of ways you can support any writers who cross your path.
I’ll spare you the clichéd “Sorry I haven’t blogged in a while, but I’ve been busy” post. I’ve never met a writer who wasn’t woefully short on time. Why should my situation be any different?
Yesterday morning, WordPress congratulated me on my blog’s third anniversary. There was even a fancy little trophy icon by the announcement.
The more I think about it, the more a term like “character-oriented” seems superfluous. Characters are but one element of a story. Like setting and plot, they are essential ingredients of a story. But are they any more important than the rest?
Today, I endeavor to do the opposite of 2012’s exercise. Rather than harp on the struggle, I will embrace the spirit of Thanksgiving by acknowledging the advantageous and affirming aspects of being a fiction writer in 2014 (and beyond).
Back when I worked in a newsroom, a colleague of mine was wont to say, “Everyone loves old photos.” I believe the Throwback Thursday (#TBT) trend serves as further proof of mankind’s fondness for looking back.
Despite having written between one and two million words to date, only a handful of them were spent in pursuit of poetry. And whenever I did venture from the comfort zone of fiction, it was typically because a teacher assigned it.