Idea generating machine
Walking helped this writer heal physically and create more story ideas. Read More “Idea generating machine”
Essays About Writing
Reaching for books that go bump in the night
Why do we reach for dark stories in dark times? Read More “Reaching for books that go bump in the night”
The writer’s heartbeat
“This is an engine problem, not a heart problem.” The cardiologist stares steadily into my eyes, calm and reassuring. He isn’t rushed – yet I … Read More “The writer’s heartbeat”
Where (not) to look for meaningful material
Don’t go slumming, suggests one writer to her fellow essayists. Read More “Where (not) to look for meaningful material”
How to send a message without annoying your readership
My dad was a doctor for a really, really long time. He’s been retired for a few years now, but he can’t shake the pillar-of-society … Read More “How to send a message without annoying your readership”
How collaboration – and a dose of humility – can improve a book
Author Melissa Hart shares how she grudgingly changed her memoir to a nonfiction book at an editor’s request – and found it ultimately worked better. Read More “How collaboration – and a dose of humility – can improve a book”
A writer’s argument for political correctness
Choosing our words carefully creates a welcoming space on the page for all readers – and it makes for better writing, too. Read More “A writer’s argument for political correctness”
A veteran journalist shares her path to success
How a string of menial jobs made one writer a better journalist. Read More “A veteran journalist shares her path to success”
Missing keys
The English language only has 26 letters at its disposal. One writer discovered she could work with even less – and gained a new perspective on her memoir in the process. Read More “Missing keys”
The benefits of blogging
Starting a blog allowed one writer to peel back the layers of her life, and helped her find a career, a community, and a voice. Read More “The benefits of blogging”
Featured Posts
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”
Pro tips for writing the ending of your novels and short stories
How to successfully navigate the last chapter of your work. Read More “Pro tips for writing the ending of your novels and short stories”
From the Front Lines: Wanna write more in 2021? Try these tips.
A little shift in consciousness can create life-altering creativity. Read More “From the Front Lines: Wanna write more in 2021? Try these tips.”