I write in layers, like a painter working in oil. First comes the idea, then a very simple sketch. When I think I’ve got the makings of a story, I write an outline in broad strokes with no detail, no life. Then comes the … Continue reading
You’re thinking about the story you’re writing, or the one you’re about to write. And you want to make sure you keep the reader’s interest. Do you have something good happen to your protagonist, and then something better happens, and … Continue reading
Craft question of the day: What stylistic error or other writerly sin is guaranteed to jolt you out of a story? For me, a big one is when a first-person narrator’s language or observations don’t seem to match who the … Continue reading
I received these two invitations today, both are open to the public. The programs sound like wonderful ways to charge up your knowledge of what’s coming in technology and learn how to more accurately portray technology for entertainment. Sure sounds like … Continue reading
Alexandra Sokoloff’s blog often has interesting stuff on it. I don’t always agree, but it’s generally food for thought. Case in point, the recent entry entitled “Write about what makes you angry“. My take on it: what makes writing involving … Continue reading
Here’s a story I’ve seen a few times in my slush reading for Stupefying Stories. A few times; you have to know already that’s a bad sign. It goes something like this. Suddenly, for no reason, some miraculous and silly … Continue reading
Writing challenge: Find a way to describe a character without using any detail that would show in a photograph of the person. No hair color, eye color, build, age, race, distinguishing features, etc. Post your attempt in the comments. Here’s … Continue reading
We had a little discussion recently about when to write “The End.” I had written the end of a sub-plot, had its crisis and resolution, and moved on to start the final Act. That left people questioning my sanity—“That’s a … Continue reading
Here is the promised article on the alternative theory to Julian Corbett. It is not an EXSUM of the book, but a quick overview with some notes for writers. You can find an EXSUM on my personal website, address at … Continue reading
“A dying man can do nothing easy.” — Benjamin Franklin on his deathbed, April 17, 1790 Final exits are satisfying in literature and film. They are moments of revelation, betrayal, sadness or wit. Sometimes the dying person has a chance … Continue reading