Do you know what I did today? I wrote a hundred lines on little pieces of paper and cut them all out so I can tape them back in a new order. Why did I do this, you ask? Because I wrote a novel without planning it. I have scenes that have no bearing on … Read more
There’s a question that crops up on writing forums a lot: how do I improve my writing? And quite often, the most common advice is “read and write lots”. Which is perfectly fine advice. Knowing what’s good and practicing your craft are great ways to imrpove. But there’s only so far that advice can take … Read more
I’m not wearing pants. However, when writing novels, sometimes I like to sit in my jeans or maybe pajama bottoms. Wait a minute. I know what you’re thinking. “Is he really going to talk about the benefits of writing with or without pants?” Well, I was going to… I think the more appropriate question might … Read more
“I’m stuck.” These two words ring in your ears. That blank page. The blinking cursor. After three hours of hard-work, all you have is this: The Knight of Moonberries by John R. R. R. R. Johnson The knight walked… And that’s it. That blank page is waiting for you to blow it up. Fill it … Read more
As writers, we ask ourselves this question at one time or another: How can I tell if my work is good? This is the wrong question. The right question is, “How can I tell if my work is good enough to accomplish my goal?” And that, of course, depends on what your goal is. If your goal … Read more
This article is by Neil Olmedo. Everyone has a story to tell. Most people have the dream of writing a novel, but few actually make this dream a reality. Here are five essential tips for anyone who wishes to write a novel. 1. Write The first rule is really very simple: just start writing. You … Read more
When I first began writing I would sit in front of the computer for hours, staring at a blank screen. I hoped that inspiration would strike, but usually it didn’t. So I would force myself to type something, praying that it would turn out to be half-decent. Back then writing was a long, tortuous process. … Read more