A while back, I was writing a scene in which my protagonist is given a choice. I made that choice for her, assuming I knew best. I wrote along my merry way, into the next chapter, la-la-laaaa… The story slowed. …
Twelve Posts on Writing, Day Nine: Half-pantsed with a plan
When I go to readings or workshops I often hear people ask the author or presenter, “Do you outline?” The subject generates a lot of chatter out there in the writing world. Do a quick Google search and you’ll see …
Twelve Posts on Writing, Day Eight: Going fishing
When I was a kid, my family went camping. A lot. I’m not talking KOA-comfort, complete-with-showers camping, either. I’m talking the rugged, dirty, go-behind-a-tree type here. And on these trips, we always took our fishing poles. Mine was black with …
Twelve Posts on Writing, Day Seven: Ugly first, then beautiful
I wanted to write this post close on the heels of the last, as they’re somewhat related. The other night I was working with PMC clay, making silver pendants to give as gifts. My ideas for the designs felt stilted. …
Twelve Posts on Writing, Day Six: Don’t be afraid to break it
A friend called a while back, wanting feedback on a story she’d written for a contest in our local newspaper. I listened as she read, and jotted down notes of what I liked and also what I thought she could …