I think we all agree, stories need to be more than a character, goal, and a series of scenarios that keep the two apart. Reading isn't a mechanical action after all, it's something we do to escape and enjoy. So, to deliver a true experience, we want to write fiction with layers, pulling readers in … [Read more...] about How Symbolism Adds Depth to a Story
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Other Story Elements
We know that when it comes to a writer giving out the coveted red rose, plot and character are first to receive one. But guess what? Alone, they won't get very far. A great story is a team effort, so let's look at other key storytelling elements needed for our book to earn a spot on the … [Read more...] about Other Story Elements
Organize Your Research with Notes at One Stop for Writers
The last time Rodney Buxton was here, he shared some helpful information about how authors can export their One Stop for Writer's Export material directly to Scrivener. Many of you reached out to let us know that you weren't aware of that option, so we were super excited to get the word out. Rodney … [Read more...] about Organize Your Research with Notes at One Stop for Writers
Tools for the Visual-Spatial Writer (and the Rest of Us)
One of the most important things I learned as a teacher was that children learn differently, and the best approach for reaching them all included a variety of methods. I find the same to be true in writing. I may have certain techniques or tools that work well for me, but I can still benefit from … [Read more...] about Tools for the Visual-Spatial Writer (and the Rest of Us)
How Do You Lead Readers to Your Theme?
A good book, once finished, often leaves you with that feeling of something more. I like to think of it as the book’s essence. It kind of hangs around like a ghost, occasionally prodding you with reminders of the realization you had while reading it, or bringing to mind that character who never left … [Read more...] about How Do You Lead Readers to Your Theme?
Theme: The Marrow of Your Story
If structure is the bones of story, theme is the marrow. Plainly defined, theme is what our stories mean, and it is revealed through other literary elements such as character, plot, dialogue, perspective, setting, mood, and tone. Stories may have several themes. Oftentimes readers—and writers … [Read more...] about Theme: The Marrow of Your Story
A Storyteller’s Swiss Army Knife? The Setting
Writing the Urban and Rural Setting Thesaurus books taught Becca and me something big: that the Setting really is the Swiss Army Knife of Storytelling. Whaaaat, you say? It's the truth. Check out all it can do: create conflict or tension foreshadow a coming event encourage an … [Read more...] about A Storyteller’s Swiss Army Knife? The Setting
Building A Story Garden: The Power Of Settings In Fiction
Guys, I have to say thanks for the terrific response to our Setting books. Becca and I are both so pleased you’re happy with the newest family members. Thank you for the reviews, the tweets, the recommendations to friends, and oh my, the #myfavoritethesaurus pictures! I am LOVING the pictures … [Read more...] about Building A Story Garden: The Power Of Settings In Fiction
5 Important Ways to Use Symbolism in Your Story
So many elements go into a truly good book. When we turn that final page with a satisfying sigh, it's often hard to identify just what made it a success. But many times, symbolism is one of the things that ties the whole work together. Done sloppily, it's heavy-handed and forced, and turns the … [Read more...] about 5 Important Ways to Use Symbolism in Your Story
Symbolism Entry: Friendship and Camaraderie
Every day we interact with objects, places and sensations that affect the way we think and feel. This can be used to the writer's advantage by planting symbols in the reader's path to reinforce a specific message, feeling or idea. Look at the setting and the character's state of mind, and then … [Read more...] about Symbolism Entry: Friendship and Camaraderie
Symbolism Thesaurus Entry: Family
Every day we interact with objects, places and sensations that affect the way we think and feel. This can be used to the writer's advantage by planting symbols in the reader's path to reinforce a specific message, feeling or idea. Look at the setting and the character's state of mind, and then … [Read more...] about Symbolism Thesaurus Entry: Family
Symbolism and Motif Entry: Depression
Every day we interact with objects, places and sensations that affect the way we think and feel. This can be used to the writer's advantage by planting symbols in the reader's path to reinforce a specific message, feeling or idea. Look at the setting and the character's state of mind, and then … [Read more...] about Symbolism and Motif Entry: Depression