A CAYCE for fiction
If vital elements are missing from your story, this five-item list will reveal what you’ve overlooked. Read More “A CAYCE for fiction”
Fiction
Stately, plump June
There’s no dismissing the powerful effect of Ulysses on the literary canon – and on countless writers. Read More “Stately, plump June”
John Katzenbach: Profile of a killer
John Katzenbach on writing suspense: Who do you kill? Where do you put the bodies? Who are you as a writer? Read More “John Katzenbach: Profile of a killer”
Hot spots
Working on your first sex scene? Here are three simple steps to writing erotica. Read More “Hot spots”
Character profile
If you’re stuck developing a character, don the journalist hat and set up an interview – with your character. Read More “Character profile”
High-five structure
Creating narrative tension isn’t only about storytelling. It’s about the nuts and bolts that incrementally build a tale. Read More “High-five structure”
How do I begin a story that needs a lot of explanation? For example, when it takes place in another time or if the character has an extraordinary skill?
Q: How do I begin a story that needs a lot of explanation? For example, when it takes place in another time or if the … Read More “How do I begin a story that needs a lot of explanation? For example, when it takes place in another time or if the character has an extraordinary skill?”
Is it ever appropriate to kill off or maim a character in the first sentences of a short story?
Q: Is it ever appropriate to kill off or maim a character in the first sentences of a short story? A: Conflict of this nature has … Read More “Is it ever appropriate to kill off or maim a character in the first sentences of a short story?”
Do I italicize the title of a short story? What about poem titles?
And what happens if you write a poem about a poem? Read More “Do I italicize the title of a short story? What about poem titles?”
Acting out: Two exercises help fiction writers get in character
Actors use all kinds of exercises to help develop their characters for various roles. For example, actors create what they call a “morgue,” a large … Read More “Acting out: Two exercises help fiction writers get in character”
Featured Posts
Pro tips for avoiding clichéd characters in fiction
Banish those walking clichés from your work for good with these tips. Read More “Pro tips for avoiding clichéd characters in fiction”
Character interlands: A new way to develop the character worksheet
Type “character worksheets” into a search engine, and you’ll find hundreds of resources to develop your protagonist and other characters. Some of the worksheets are … Read More “Character interlands: A new way to develop the character worksheet”
4 ways to instantly tighten your fiction
Editor-proof your stories with these tips. Read More “4 ways to instantly tighten your fiction”