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 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 …
Twelve Posts on Writing, Day Five: Watch your aim
If you ever get a chance to attend a reading or workshop with Ron Carlson, go. I can’t stress it enough: GO. I’ve only talked with him a couple of times, but each time I walked away with these amazing …
Twelve Posts on Writing, Day Four: Focus, Breathe, Wait
I just got back from yoga. I do hot yoga, where the studio is heated to 105° with the humidity cranked up to around 40%. I haven’t been in a while, and to be honest, today kicked my tail. I …