It's been awhile since we talked about clichés, so I thought I'd look at the temptation aspect of using them and why writers are drawn to them when faced with tough description choices. The way I see it, there are four main reasons to reach for the Poisoned Apple and chow down on it: 1) … [Read more...] about Clichés…The Poisoned Apple of Description
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Talk Amongst Yourselves: Realistic Dialogue
Saturday was Date Night (woohoo!) and while we were out, I realized a few things. First, I recognized that while going out to eat pre-baby was merely fun, it's now necessary to my sanity. Secondly, as nice as it was to eat someone else's cooking, having a real conversation with another adult was … [Read more...] about Talk Amongst Yourselves: Realistic Dialogue
Pacing Potholes: Common Hazards that Slow Forward Motion
Pacing is a difficult thing to master. Like driving a car, there are many things we need to be on top of to keep our story on the road. Are we glancing out the window enough to be aware of the setting around us? Do we have a destination in mind, or is our plot taking the scenic route? Did we … [Read more...] about Pacing Potholes: Common Hazards that Slow Forward Motion
Techniques For Atmosphere and Mood Building In Fiction
I thought today I'd take a quick look at how setting description can transcend to convey atmosphere through the deft manipulation of the five senses. First off, what is Atmosphere? Atmosphere is the mood created through the deliberate description of setting. Depending on the emotion you wish … [Read more...] about Techniques For Atmosphere and Mood Building In Fiction
Introducing Sensory Saturday…Meet the Setting Thesaurus!
Many elements go into creating a successful novel, but one of the most important is Setting. For a reader to relate to the current action, they need a physical anchor to tie the characters to. It can be difficult, finding the right words to convey a sense of place. The right description can create a … [Read more...] about Introducing Sensory Saturday…Meet the Setting Thesaurus!
Point of View, Part Deux: Which To Use
Why are there so many different viewpoints to choose from? Why isn't everything written in first person, or third, or omniscient? Because each viewpoint offers a different experience for readers, creating a strategic amount of distance between them and the characters. A story written in first … [Read more...] about Point of View, Part Deux: Which To Use
Evaluating Critique Feedback
So, you’ve mastered your anxiety and have placed your manuscript into the crittery waters of a new critique group. You wait, compulsively checking your inbox for the feedback to roll in. You’re excited, but a little scared, too. Will they laugh-out-loud where they’re supposed to, weep at the sheer … [Read more...] about Evaluating Critique Feedback
Critiquing 101: Accepting Criticism
Awhile back, I posted about when it might be time to find a critique group. Today I thought I'd take a look at a few things that will help you once you've decided to take the plunge. Making the decision to become a stronger writer Taking the leap to get your worked critiqued is a big step. … [Read more...] about Critiquing 101: Accepting Criticism