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”
Fiction
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?
Add to FavoritesQ: How do I begin a story that needs a lot of explanation? For example, when it takes place in another time or … 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?
Add to FavoritesQ: Is it ever appropriate to kill off or maim a character in the first sentences of a short story? A: Conflict of this … 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
Add to FavoritesActors use all kinds of exercises to help develop their characters for various roles. For example, actors create what they call a “morgue,” … Read More “Acting out: Two exercises help fiction writers get in character”
The pleasures and perils of prologues
Here are some tips on how to use one skillfully—and when not to use one at all Read More “The pleasures and perils of prologues”
5 ways into a story
An experienced writer of short fiction offers a broad range of entry points that can get you started. Read More “5 ways into a story”
Make your characters’ thoughts dramatic
What goes on in their minds is a valuable tool of fiction you can use to reveal people, build tension, and more Read More “Make your characters’ thoughts dramatic”
Expletives deleted
There’s nothing like a ‘there is’ phrase to suck the energy out of a sentence Read More “Expletives deleted”
Target character and conflict with a handy checklist
To write a compelling story, you must thwart your character’s desire. These questions will keep you on the right track. Read More “Target character and conflict with a handy checklist”
Featured Posts
The Writer’s Conference
September 17, 2022 Sponsored By Thank you to all who attended our conference on September 17, 2022! Sign up for our mailing list now … Read More “The Writer’s Conference”
Three elements that create a strong opening sentence
The importance of opening with character, setting, and emotion. Read More “Three elements that create a strong opening sentence”
Opportunities for writers: September 2022
Here are the deadlines that caught our eye this month, September 2022. Read More “Opportunities for writers: September 2022”