My next few articles will act as a deep dive into specific short form works. We’ll examine a piece from each short form and dive deep into its inner workings to find the path to success in our own short form pieces. Flash is one of my not-so-secret literary short forms loves. I love it… Read more »
Storytelling language can go by many names, especially when it comes to major plot points: point of no return, external and internal conflicts, stakes, etc. One of the most well-known terms defines a moment essential for every story. It comes at the very end of your middle act and pushes your Lead into a new… Read more »
Myths and legends are rich resources for writers. It’s undeniable. But before you head out to write yet another take on Arthur and the valiant knights of the round table, or Robin Hood, or the Greek, Roman, or Norse gods, it might be interesting to dig a little further into the myths and legends that… Read more »
Fledgling writers often face a unique struggle, which unfortunately scares many away. Learning how to work on the myriad areas of craft, figuring out what to write about, writing and sending out pitches, receiving numerous rejections, and maintaining both confidence and stamina makes for a very trying environment. Though it can feel like you’re alone… Read more »
Have you seen Marie Kondo’s new Netflix show, Tidying Up with Marie Kondo? Marie teaches people how to do a deep declutter of their homes, often prompting emotional awakenings as the clutter is cleared. Change is sparked; lives are redirected. The show is apparently so popular that Goodwill and Salvation Army sites around the country… Read more »
Editing is a natural and necessary part of the writing process. But many writers dread revising their work. They’re exhausted from writing the first draft and the thought of changing or deleting words terrifies them. Bestselling books don’t get that way by accident. Rounds of careful revisions are what makes writing shine. Take a page… Read more »
In the summer of 2017, I attended ThrillerFest—the International Thriller Writers annual conference. A senior editor from Publishers Weekly (PW) was interviewed during one of the luncheons. He offered insights on the magazine’s book review process. I began to wonder what it would be like to review books for the publication, to have the privilege… Read more »
Have you noticed we’ve been revisiting the theme of family lately? It’s for good reason, though. Our original case study on family introduced the theme and how it can be explored in stories. Then our more recent posts have investigated it further, and from different angles. If each post were to represent one of the… Read more »
Strong female characters have been all the rage the last several years, and it’s been great seeing girls kick some serious behind. But girls don’t have to swing a sword or beat the villain to a pulp with their bare hands in order to be strong. There are many kinds of strength and many kinds… Read more »
As with any creative endeavor, there is a certain amount of inspiration that needs to happen in your writing: the beautiful melding of your varied experiences turned into something new and wonderful, yet familiar and accessible. The problem comes when you, as a writer, think that work can only be done when you have that… Read more »
