This post is for Alex Cavanaugh’s Insecure Writers Support Group. Click the link for details on what #IWSG means and how to join. You will also find a list of bloggers signed up to the challenge that are worth checking out. The first Wednesday of every month, we all post our thoughts, fears or words … Continue reading
When you read your story, does it sound off, maybe you can’t quite put your finger on it, but you know you’ve done something wrong? Sometimes–maybe even lots of times–there are simple fixes. These writer’s tips will come at you once a week, giving you plenty of time to go through your story and make … Continue reading
At times, writing seems impossible. I wonder if I have what it takes or if there’s some critical piece I’m missing that means it just won’t ever happen. I do a lot of the right things- I read, a lot I’m observant I’m a loner (or, the flip side–I don’t mind being alone) I bloom … Continue reading
There are a lot of difficult parts to writing. I mean, besides the whole write-edit-revise-rewrite thing. That cutting a vein and bleeding on the page can get touch-and-go at times. Channeling your muse at times gets someone you’d prefer to avoid. And it’s well documented that trying to make a living as an author is … Continue reading
This is inspired by Jennifer Cohen over at Forbes who wrote a wonderful article on “5 Things Super Successful People Do Before 8am” (few of which I did, though I can claim #5). She includes chores like exercise, eat a healthy breakfast, map out the day–all great ideas, but not pithy enough for the average … Continue reading
I’m reposting this from Today’s Author, for anyone who didn’t read it there: My efriend, Kirk Allmond, had a hilarious run down of what NOT to say to a writer. Well, they were all true, but I still couldn’t stop laughing. Truisms like, “Leave a writer alone when they’re writing. You have no idea how … Continue reading
Take today to think about it. Then watch this: ..and then consider the hilarious Debbie Ohi’s take on ‘taking a break': “Comic used with permission from Debbie Ridpath Ohi at Inkygirl.com.” Jacqui Murray is the author of the popular Building a Midshipman, the story of her daughter’s journey from high school to United States Naval Academy. … Continue reading
I really struggled with this title. The post isn’t about writing comedy. That’s a useful genre, but one not particularly suited to novels. I think of comedy writers as working for the Letterman Show or a politician as a speech writer. Maybe a motivational speaker’s assistant. You think those are odd choices? Not really. Humor … Continue reading
I love the way Yuvi talks about writing. Here are two of his videos. If they resonate for you (like they do me), I encourage you to subscribe to his brilliance: _____________________________________________________________________ Jacqui Murray is the author of the popular Building a Midshipman, the story of her daughter’s journey from high school to United States Naval … Continue reading
Here’s the second half of this post (click for Part I). Keep these in a file on your desktop. Visit when you’re stuck. You’ll find inspiration for a character, motivations, or just a clever turn-of-phrase (which you can’t copy, but can be prodded with). Enjoy! “Vote early and vote often.” – Al Capone (1899-1947) “If … Continue reading
