You know you are a writer if -
Writing fills a hole in your soul
You write every day
You talk to invisible characters
You argue with people who do not exist
You read - lots
You have stories waiting to be written, stacking up in the corners of your brain.
You daydream
Your story has been criticised, but you know in its heart it is a good story, so you rewrite
You have doubt about your ability to write, but you still write.
You like being alone in your other worlds
You talk about your characters as if they are real
When you cannot find the time to write it feels like something is missing from your life
You have a burning desire to share you thoughts, views and opinions about the world, but speaking is not for you.
You lose time when writing
You love writing
Characters demand you write their story
Sometimes I need to reaffirm what I know is true- I am a writer.
My thoughts, learning and writing journey after attending Winchester Writer's Festival 2016.
Wednesday, 31 August 2016
Tuesday, 30 August 2016
Sci -Fi Genres explained
Continuing from yesterday
Some from Brandon and some gathered elsewhere.
Sci-Fi Genres - as a general rule, not set in stone!
Military
Space marine
Realistic Battles
Death
Tension
Guns and weaponry
Description of military lifestyle - and the readers of this genre know when you get it wrong.
Tactics - need to be feasible
Characters unwilling or unable to resolve issues peacefully
Mix of planet and space ship
Space Opera
Adventure
Travel
Centres on character development
Often contains romance
Generally optimistic view on the future
Mainly in outer space
Aliens
Can contain special powers - eg the force
Vast galactic empires
Often a series
Hard
Science is paramount, it has to be accurate, detailed and plausible.
Complex charcters grappling with a variety of personal, technological and/ or scientific problems
Most writers of this genre are scientists
Awesome endings
Cyberpunk
Modified humans, often mix of human and machine
Governments tend to be commercial not political and corrupt
Often dystopian
High technology but Low quality of life
Reluctant, bitter heroes
Cyberspace
Often a detective story
Whatever you chose, enjoy.
I have a space opera waiting for November!
Some from Brandon and some gathered elsewhere.
Sci-Fi Genres - as a general rule, not set in stone!
Military
Space marine
Realistic Battles
Death
Tension
Guns and weaponry
Description of military lifestyle - and the readers of this genre know when you get it wrong.
Tactics - need to be feasible
Characters unwilling or unable to resolve issues peacefully
Mix of planet and space ship
Space Opera
Adventure
Travel
Centres on character development
Often contains romance
Generally optimistic view on the future
Mainly in outer space
Aliens
Can contain special powers - eg the force
Vast galactic empires
Often a series
Hard
Science is paramount, it has to be accurate, detailed and plausible.
Complex charcters grappling with a variety of personal, technological and/ or scientific problems
Most writers of this genre are scientists
Awesome endings
Cyberpunk
Modified humans, often mix of human and machine
Governments tend to be commercial not political and corrupt
Often dystopian
High technology but Low quality of life
Reluctant, bitter heroes
Cyberspace
Often a detective story
Whatever you chose, enjoy.
I have a space opera waiting for November!
Monday, 29 August 2016
Adult Fantasy Genres Explained
I love his writing, sense of humour, his courses and his podcast.
I guess that makes me a fan of Brandon Sanderson.
There are videos of Brandon Sanderson's writing course online. I have watched most of them.
This is how he explained the typical adult fantasy genres a few years ago.
Epic
120k-150k words
A large cast
World building focus
The future of the world is at stake
Stand alone with sequel potential (first)
Heroic
80k - 100k words
Dudes or dudesses with swords!
Small cast
Gritty
Violent
Action
Urban
Around 70k words
Chicks in leather ( or dudes)
Our world setting often with a dark underworld
Paranormal
Mystery
Fast Paced
Dystopian
70k - 80k words
Small cast
Bad future
Power corrupts
Violence and death
Teenagers
and then there is Sci- fi - but that can wait for another day.
He said to write the book you want, but bear in mind the genres. You do not have to stick to the norm in the genre your story best fits.
Twist it if you wish..
I guess that makes me a fan of Brandon Sanderson.
There are videos of Brandon Sanderson's writing course online. I have watched most of them.
This is how he explained the typical adult fantasy genres a few years ago.
Epic
120k-150k words
A large cast
World building focus
The future of the world is at stake
Stand alone with sequel potential (first)
Heroic
80k - 100k words
Dudes or dudesses with swords!
Small cast
Gritty
Violent
Action
Urban
Around 70k words
Chicks in leather ( or dudes)
Our world setting often with a dark underworld
Paranormal
Mystery
Fast Paced
Dystopian
70k - 80k words
Small cast
Bad future
Power corrupts
Violence and death
Teenagers
and then there is Sci- fi - but that can wait for another day.
He said to write the book you want, but bear in mind the genres. You do not have to stick to the norm in the genre your story best fits.
Twist it if you wish..
Saturday, 27 August 2016
Don't just write
Pursue other creative hobbies and enhance your writing.
I have noticed many blogs, books and course mention taking a break from writing, especially if your are stumbling, or a character or scene needs fixing but you cannot see how.
Many people advocate another creative hobby.
Writing threads on social media and online writing groups are interspersed with 'what are your hobbies? What else do you do? etc. The answers are inevitably creative pastimes.
Why?
Painting / Drawing / Sculpture / Photography = observation. It helps you observe the world in more detail. Detail that could change your good story into a great one.
Cooking is about putting the correct flavours, scents and textures together. Writing about smells and tastes pulls your reader deeper into the story. If you can make their mouth water or crave a certain food you have them hooked.
Gardening is about colour, texture, scents, good and bad. Describe stagnate water through a physical reaction and your reader will crinkle their nose, living the moment of disgust with the character. You will also be int he fresh air surrounded by nature, this opens your mind to more ideas and thoughts.
Listening to music. Music is a powerful emotive media. It is a creator of mood , inspiration, white noise, focus, and memories. Often a piece of music will take you back in time. This can happen to your characters too.
Making music / singing is about rhythm, tone, vibration, and pitch. You are more aware of sounds, harmonic and discordant in the world. There is a rhythm to writing, it is part of your writer's voice. Music and songs tell a whole story in a short amount of time, it helps you to choose your words carefully.
Dancing / Walking /Cycling - all have a rhythm and a freeing of the subconscious. If you do these you are more likely to see the way people move, it enhances your characters body language.
Knitting, quilting, crocheting sewing all have a rhythm to them, once mastered it is almost meditative, fingers moving while the brain is free to wander. Perfect for a first draft, no inner editor. They rely on pattern, colours, sequence of events. So do stories.
Allow your creative hobbies to merge.
What do you do when you need a break from writing?
What are your hobbies when writing becomes a job?
I have noticed many blogs, books and course mention taking a break from writing, especially if your are stumbling, or a character or scene needs fixing but you cannot see how.
Many people advocate another creative hobby.
Writing threads on social media and online writing groups are interspersed with 'what are your hobbies? What else do you do? etc. The answers are inevitably creative pastimes.
Why?
Painting / Drawing / Sculpture / Photography = observation. It helps you observe the world in more detail. Detail that could change your good story into a great one.
Cooking is about putting the correct flavours, scents and textures together. Writing about smells and tastes pulls your reader deeper into the story. If you can make their mouth water or crave a certain food you have them hooked.
Gardening is about colour, texture, scents, good and bad. Describe stagnate water through a physical reaction and your reader will crinkle their nose, living the moment of disgust with the character. You will also be int he fresh air surrounded by nature, this opens your mind to more ideas and thoughts.
Listening to music. Music is a powerful emotive media. It is a creator of mood , inspiration, white noise, focus, and memories. Often a piece of music will take you back in time. This can happen to your characters too.
Making music / singing is about rhythm, tone, vibration, and pitch. You are more aware of sounds, harmonic and discordant in the world. There is a rhythm to writing, it is part of your writer's voice. Music and songs tell a whole story in a short amount of time, it helps you to choose your words carefully.
Dancing / Walking /Cycling - all have a rhythm and a freeing of the subconscious. If you do these you are more likely to see the way people move, it enhances your characters body language.
Knitting, quilting, crocheting sewing all have a rhythm to them, once mastered it is almost meditative, fingers moving while the brain is free to wander. Perfect for a first draft, no inner editor. They rely on pattern, colours, sequence of events. So do stories.
Allow your creative hobbies to merge.
What do you do when you need a break from writing?
What are your hobbies when writing becomes a job?
Friday, 26 August 2016
Writing Time Lord
When we write we control time.
No, this post it is not about Dr Who and his wonderful Tardis, but Pacing.
Pacing controls the speed in which the reader turns the pages. It varies depending on the type of story and the place in the story.
What does my story need to keep the reader turning the pages?
Conflict- this moves the story along at a cracking pace. many conflicts in quick succession can zip the reader along.
Moments of calm - for the reader to catch their breath and absorb what has been happening- maybe shift focus to a secondary character, or focus on the detail of something.
Scenes written in the moment - maybe a short moment but takes lots of words.
Flashbacks - generally a slower pace as they are showing not telling, use only when needed to give more background on the character or events.
Tension - cliff hangers at end of chapter, but not always.
Time bomb- date /time something has to be done by or...
Sentence length - make it long for description. Short for action.
Chapter length - shorter chapters can speed the story along.
Dialogue- rapid fire means the reader reads faster.
Suspense - by prolonging the solution or outcome of an event, using longer sentences and chapters.
Choose words carefully - short active verbs, words which convey senses and action together speed up the action. Long, descriptive words and passages slow the pace.
Emotional investment - the reader needs to care and experience the story. Extend and prolong important scenes even if in reality they take only minutes. Think about when time slows for you. Use this to pull the reader in deep.
Learn the rhythm of the story and be true to it.
Easier said then done. I still have so much to learn.
No, this post it is not about Dr Who and his wonderful Tardis, but Pacing.
Pacing controls the speed in which the reader turns the pages. It varies depending on the type of story and the place in the story.
What does my story need to keep the reader turning the pages?
Conflict- this moves the story along at a cracking pace. many conflicts in quick succession can zip the reader along.
Moments of calm - for the reader to catch their breath and absorb what has been happening- maybe shift focus to a secondary character, or focus on the detail of something.
Scenes written in the moment - maybe a short moment but takes lots of words.
Flashbacks - generally a slower pace as they are showing not telling, use only when needed to give more background on the character or events.
Tension - cliff hangers at end of chapter, but not always.
Time bomb- date /time something has to be done by or...
Sentence length - make it long for description. Short for action.
Chapter length - shorter chapters can speed the story along.
Dialogue- rapid fire means the reader reads faster.
Suspense - by prolonging the solution or outcome of an event, using longer sentences and chapters.
Choose words carefully - short active verbs, words which convey senses and action together speed up the action. Long, descriptive words and passages slow the pace.
Emotional investment - the reader needs to care and experience the story. Extend and prolong important scenes even if in reality they take only minutes. Think about when time slows for you. Use this to pull the reader in deep.
Learn the rhythm of the story and be true to it.
Easier said then done. I still have so much to learn.
Thursday, 25 August 2016
Writing - Dream Job
Many people say they would like to be a professional author.
Including me.
Is it possible?
Of course, depending on ...
Your Personality
Writing requires hours of working alone, being disciplined enough to set your own work schedule or timetable and stick to it.
Your social skills need to be good enough to enable book signings, interviews and talks. Selling your product is vital at many stages.
You need to be strong when family and friends wish for your attention if you are working from a room at home.
You need to be able to say 'No', When you are successful people will be asking for your help with their manuscripts.
You need a positive attitude. Does failure and criticism send you spiralling into depression or make you determined to do better?
Many decisions are made for you, especially if traditionally published - if you like to be in control this may be a problem.
Do you like deadlines?
You need patience.
You need belief in yourself.
I hope you enjoy research, for your stories and for the profession.
Financial Aspects
What do you need to earn?
You need to manage your tax, carefully.
No regular wage.
Only a few authors have best seller success.
You will be self-employed and as such, unless you pay for insurance, no sick pay is available.
You will need money for conferences, courses books and, perhaps, travel.
Business of writing
You need to understand how the world of books works. Publishers, editors, agents, retailers.
What does marketing entail? What will you need to do? Only the best selling books get money thrown at them by publishing companies.
Daily news via online or monthly publications such as The Bookseller.
Are you making links with this world via social media?
Other Considerations
Are you happy with your hobby turning into your job?
How long are you willing to try and make it work? What is your back up plan if it does not turn out to be your dream job.
Are you prepared for networking on the internet?
Are you prepared to diversify? Factual writing as well as fiction, try a different genre. write short stories for magazines, read stories for audiobooks.
Chase your passion, enjoy your writing and if you can cope with all of the above your hobby can metamorphose into your dream job.
Could I do it?
I would need help with tax but otherwise I am sure it's possible. Working towards.
Including me.
Is it possible?
Of course, depending on ...
Your Personality
Writing requires hours of working alone, being disciplined enough to set your own work schedule or timetable and stick to it.
Your social skills need to be good enough to enable book signings, interviews and talks. Selling your product is vital at many stages.
You need to be strong when family and friends wish for your attention if you are working from a room at home.
You need to be able to say 'No', When you are successful people will be asking for your help with their manuscripts.
You need a positive attitude. Does failure and criticism send you spiralling into depression or make you determined to do better?
Many decisions are made for you, especially if traditionally published - if you like to be in control this may be a problem.
Do you like deadlines?
You need patience.
You need belief in yourself.
I hope you enjoy research, for your stories and for the profession.
Financial Aspects
What do you need to earn?
You need to manage your tax, carefully.
No regular wage.
Only a few authors have best seller success.
You will be self-employed and as such, unless you pay for insurance, no sick pay is available.
You will need money for conferences, courses books and, perhaps, travel.
Business of writing
You need to understand how the world of books works. Publishers, editors, agents, retailers.
What does marketing entail? What will you need to do? Only the best selling books get money thrown at them by publishing companies.
Daily news via online or monthly publications such as The Bookseller.
Are you making links with this world via social media?
Other Considerations
Are you happy with your hobby turning into your job?
How long are you willing to try and make it work? What is your back up plan if it does not turn out to be your dream job.
Are you prepared for networking on the internet?
Are you prepared to diversify? Factual writing as well as fiction, try a different genre. write short stories for magazines, read stories for audiobooks.
Chase your passion, enjoy your writing and if you can cope with all of the above your hobby can metamorphose into your dream job.
Could I do it?
I would need help with tax but otherwise I am sure it's possible. Working towards.
Wednesday, 24 August 2016
Can't write - go Dance.
Writer's block - an author's virus.
I have read many articles, blogs and listened to podcasts on this subject just in case I get it one day.
I may have had it in small doses, but continued to write anyway.
Symptoms
Brain freezes in the middle of a sentence
No ideas
Elusive words
Sit staring at a blank page or screen
Write, erase, write, erase, write, erase.....
Prefer housework to writing
My whole story is crap
Why am I wasting so much time?
Cause
Fear - failure, getting it wrong, going the wrong way.
Doubt
Attitude- thinking writing a publishable book is easy
Bad mood - emotions getting in the way
Internet beckons
Interruptions
Inner Editor
Your story has slowed - not enough action
Your characters are boring
Perfectionism
Don't feel like writing today
Cure
Write something else
Do some research
Set realistic goals
Write a scene you can see that occurs later in the story
Turn off that pesky inner editor, ignore spelling and grammar mistakes.
Do something else creative - paint, draw
Find some nature to breath in
Do some exercise - walk, cycle, swim, dance.
Write for yourself- because you love writing and it makes you feel wonderful
Write rubbish, it can only be polished it it exists
Don't stress about it - it is not permanent
Brandon Sanderson says 'BicHok' - Butt in chair Hands on keyboard and write.
Neil Gaiman says when it happens 3/4 of the way into a story. Don't give up. Analyse what is wrong and correct it.
Terry Pratchett says 'There's no such thing as writer's block. That was invented by people in California who couldn't write' - Yep very useful Terry, thanks.
I have read many articles, blogs and listened to podcasts on this subject just in case I get it one day.
I may have had it in small doses, but continued to write anyway.
Symptoms
Brain freezes in the middle of a sentence
No ideas
Elusive words
Sit staring at a blank page or screen
Write, erase, write, erase, write, erase.....
Prefer housework to writing
My whole story is crap
Why am I wasting so much time?
Cause
Fear - failure, getting it wrong, going the wrong way.
Doubt
Attitude- thinking writing a publishable book is easy
Bad mood - emotions getting in the way
Internet beckons
Interruptions
Inner Editor
Your story has slowed - not enough action
Your characters are boring
Perfectionism
Don't feel like writing today
Cure
Write something else
Do some research
Set realistic goals
Write a scene you can see that occurs later in the story
Turn off that pesky inner editor, ignore spelling and grammar mistakes.
Do something else creative - paint, draw
Find some nature to breath in
Do some exercise - walk, cycle, swim, dance.
Write for yourself- because you love writing and it makes you feel wonderful
Write rubbish, it can only be polished it it exists
Don't stress about it - it is not permanent
Brandon Sanderson says 'BicHok' - Butt in chair Hands on keyboard and write.
Neil Gaiman says when it happens 3/4 of the way into a story. Don't give up. Analyse what is wrong and correct it.
Terry Pratchett says 'There's no such thing as writer's block. That was invented by people in California who couldn't write' - Yep very useful Terry, thanks.
Tuesday, 23 August 2016
Characters who stick
Iowa course
No not stick people!
Although these are showing action and emotion.
Question -What makes a Character stick in the reader's mind?
Answer - They need to be Realistic
to-
Live
Love
Grow
Change - this can be slow
Make progress
Make mistakes - many times until learn
React emotionally
Have flaws
Have fears
Appeal or Repulse the reader
Want or need something
Be competent, but this is not enough to survive the story
Have friends
Have enemies- this may be themselves.
Be active
Be empowering - changing the world around them in some way.
Oh that's easy then!
Have fun with your characters.
No not stick people!
Although these are showing action and emotion.
Question -What makes a Character stick in the reader's mind?
Answer - They need to be Realistic
to-
Live
Love
Grow
Change - this can be slow
Make progress
Make mistakes - many times until learn
React emotionally
Have flaws
Have fears
Appeal or Repulse the reader
Want or need something
Be competent, but this is not enough to survive the story
Have friends
Have enemies- this may be themselves.
Be active
Be empowering - changing the world around them in some way.
Oh that's easy then!
Have fun with your characters.
Monday, 22 August 2016
Intuitive writing
Iowa course
Steven Lumley talked about writing the first draft intuitively.
'Don't panic and make plans' but let your mind create the story as you go. This will give you choices when you edit.
Trust the writing will tell you the story. This allows for more powerful thinking, allowing your intuition to guide you.
Characters will develop and animate. You will learn more about the characters, and the plot will thicken.
The plot is a collaboration between you, the characters and your voice.
If the plot is too planned the story becomes stiff.
Have a direction in mind, but be prepared to be diverted.
Revisions and re-drafting is when you can tighten the plot, ensure the beginning supports the end, and build in tension and conflict.
My thoughts-
I think you need to understand your main character before writing so that you can write their reactions and emotions in a natural way.
The imaginative juices do flow better when you turn off your inner editor.
Learning to ignore spelling and grammar mistakes while writing a first draft is vital.
It is easy to write out of sequence, so there is no writers block to contend with- just write a scene you can see clearly.
I do not write in chapters on a first draft. It is one continuous story, this allows me to see the conflicts and hooks , and ensures my chapters are different lengths.
NaNoWriMo in November is a good exercise in this form of writing.
Do you have anything to add?
Steven Lumley talked about writing the first draft intuitively.
'Don't panic and make plans' but let your mind create the story as you go. This will give you choices when you edit.
Trust the writing will tell you the story. This allows for more powerful thinking, allowing your intuition to guide you.
Characters will develop and animate. You will learn more about the characters, and the plot will thicken.
The plot is a collaboration between you, the characters and your voice.
If the plot is too planned the story becomes stiff.
Have a direction in mind, but be prepared to be diverted.
Revisions and re-drafting is when you can tighten the plot, ensure the beginning supports the end, and build in tension and conflict.
My thoughts-
I think you need to understand your main character before writing so that you can write their reactions and emotions in a natural way.
The imaginative juices do flow better when you turn off your inner editor.
Learning to ignore spelling and grammar mistakes while writing a first draft is vital.
It is easy to write out of sequence, so there is no writers block to contend with- just write a scene you can see clearly.
I do not write in chapters on a first draft. It is one continuous story, this allows me to see the conflicts and hooks , and ensures my chapters are different lengths.
NaNoWriMo in November is a good exercise in this form of writing.
Do you have anything to add?
Saturday, 20 August 2016
To boldly go ...where no writer has been before
Is it possible to write an original story?
Yes.
There are many story patterns and similar themes - murder mystery, romance, fighting aliens, fulfilling a prophecy, saving the world ... and they can be told in a multitude of different ways.
Every cliche can be twisted.
Every scene can have an unexpected turn, maybe the opposite to what you were going to write - but the opposite works and is an original choice.
Original use of a tool or animal, NB: If you have giant wolves rather than horses, but they fulfil a horses role why have wolves? What do they do to push the plot forward that a horse couldn't.
But
Originality is not necessarily your characters, plot, or genre.
It is you. Understand where your ideas and writing passion is coming from.
Write with passion and experience the freshness of your story and the reader will too.
The reader is experiencing the world through your eyes, experience, thoughts, emotions and imagination. That is what makes a story unique.
Be brave.
Do not be a safe writer, following guidelines or trends.
Boldly go where only you have travelled.
Write freely for the first draft, let anything happen, go with your imaginative flow, write the same scene twice in different ways, experiment,, write out of sequence.
Be specific.
You want the reader to see your character and world the way you do? Describe them carefully, pick the perfect words. Not on the first draft, but when you are editing.
Set your Phasers and stun your readers!
Yes.
There are many story patterns and similar themes - murder mystery, romance, fighting aliens, fulfilling a prophecy, saving the world ... and they can be told in a multitude of different ways.
Every cliche can be twisted.
Every scene can have an unexpected turn, maybe the opposite to what you were going to write - but the opposite works and is an original choice.
Original use of a tool or animal, NB: If you have giant wolves rather than horses, but they fulfil a horses role why have wolves? What do they do to push the plot forward that a horse couldn't.
But
Originality is not necessarily your characters, plot, or genre.
It is you. Understand where your ideas and writing passion is coming from.
Write with passion and experience the freshness of your story and the reader will too.
The reader is experiencing the world through your eyes, experience, thoughts, emotions and imagination. That is what makes a story unique.
Be brave.
Do not be a safe writer, following guidelines or trends.
Boldly go where only you have travelled.
Write freely for the first draft, let anything happen, go with your imaginative flow, write the same scene twice in different ways, experiment,, write out of sequence.
Be specific.
You want the reader to see your character and world the way you do? Describe them carefully, pick the perfect words. Not on the first draft, but when you are editing.
Set your Phasers and stun your readers!
Friday, 19 August 2016
Paint with words
Last year I participated in the free online Iowa University course 'How Writers Write Fiction'
This is what I gleaned form Paul Harding's video on Immersion in settings.
If your story needs deep description -
Landscapes / City / Sea / Space
Sight - 'Think about how a painter may recreate a landscape and describe it as though you were the painter'. Pay attention to shading, variety and depth of colour, and contrast.
Sound - 'How would a musician create the landscape?' - Pay attention to the nuances of sound, how the weather effects the quality and the distance sound travels. Loud obvious sounds and those small delicate noises we often miss.
Detail - Focus on small detail as well as the wider view.
Character - how is the character's emotion effecting how they perceive the landscape? How does the landscape effect the character's mood?
Observation -
Step back and pay attention to the landscapes around you.
Forget what you know about a familiar landscape. Look at it with innocent eyes.
Imagine - what if there was a storm brewing - how would the landscape change?
Revisit - you can see the same landscape ten times and notice something different each time.
Precise writing
Why do you need to describe in this detail? Be clear on the importance for the story.
Choose words carefully. Each one needs to add to the story.
Not a catalogue of details or a list.
Point Of View - will change the perception. Try placing each of your characters in the same street - they will all observe differently.
The assignment -
Spend 30 mins somewhere and observe everything.
Take a small piece of a previous assignment and create a new scene with a rich description. Think about precision and detail.
This was my attempt - I have resisted the temptation to edit!
This is one of the three peer reviews which are guided by questions. Very useful.
This is what I gleaned form Paul Harding's video on Immersion in settings.
If your story needs deep description -
Landscapes / City / Sea / Space
Sight - 'Think about how a painter may recreate a landscape and describe it as though you were the painter'. Pay attention to shading, variety and depth of colour, and contrast.
Sound - 'How would a musician create the landscape?' - Pay attention to the nuances of sound, how the weather effects the quality and the distance sound travels. Loud obvious sounds and those small delicate noises we often miss.
Detail - Focus on small detail as well as the wider view.
Character - how is the character's emotion effecting how they perceive the landscape? How does the landscape effect the character's mood?
Observation -
Step back and pay attention to the landscapes around you.
Forget what you know about a familiar landscape. Look at it with innocent eyes.
Imagine - what if there was a storm brewing - how would the landscape change?
Revisit - you can see the same landscape ten times and notice something different each time.
Precise writing
Why do you need to describe in this detail? Be clear on the importance for the story.
Choose words carefully. Each one needs to add to the story.
Not a catalogue of details or a list.
Point Of View - will change the perception. Try placing each of your characters in the same street - they will all observe differently.
The assignment -
Spend 30 mins somewhere and observe everything.
Take a small piece of a previous assignment and create a new scene with a rich description. Think about precision and detail.
This was my attempt - I have resisted the temptation to edit!
Snow Glitter
The dark-wood chalet contrasted against the pristine snow
and tall, frosted, pine trees. It looked like an elf’s house topped with a
thick, undulating, white blanket bulging over the edge, defying gravity.
She laughed like a child, and the
magic of Christmas had sunk into her heart, when a whisper of wind brushed the roof,
and the air filled with sparkling glitter.
He leant close, loosened the warm
blue scarf from her neck and whispered, ‘This way.’ His lips left a warm kiss that
the air turned to ice. She smiled and tugged the scarf back up to cover her
ears and nose.
He took her hand and led her past
the haven of cosy warmth and into the silent, dry cold of the forest. Next to a
log pile, so neatly stacked with the sawn circular ends facing the pathway that
it looked like modern art, were two pairs of snow shoes and a backpack, their
bright blue and red colours shouting their presence. The sharp, fresh scent of
pine resin permeated her scarf as they sat on a cleared log and he helped her tighten
the straps of the cumbersome footwear. The ratchet clicking its man-made sound
into the trees, disturbing two small birds who squawked their displeasure
before returning to their search for small insects huddling beneath the rough,
scaled bark.
Their first steps were clumsy and
their laughter bounced off the snow-laden branches causing silver cascades to
lightly dust their hats.
‘Come on,’ he said and led the
way along a pathway that was not visible to her eyes. Branches created archways
that they ducked beneath, but these were spring loaded and a breath of a touch released
the tension, the branch returning to its natural position and flinging snow
crystals high in the air. Her eyes followed the sparkling powder upward and she
almost overbalanced, she had never seen trees that pierced the sky before.
She could hear flurries of snow
fall through the forest, the occasional call of a bird in the distance, the
crunch of their shoes breaking through the thin icy crust and sinking into the
softer snow below. The loudest sound was her heart and the huff of their
breath.
‘Through here,’ he gestured for
her to walk in front as he held back a doorway of branches. She touched his red
cheek with her gloved hand and smiled. He saw the smile in her eyes and
mirrored it in anticipation.
She stood motionless, withholding
the breadth that would cloud her vision, and unwilling to move in fear of
breaking even one of the diamond shaped crystals that had formed in the small
valley. Contrasting black bulrush heads outlined a frozen lake which reflected
the delicate colours of the evening sky. She had never seen beauty on this
scale before, tears froze on her eyelashes.
He wrapped his arms around her,
sharing his body heat. They absorbed the solitude, a welcome contrast to their
frenetic city life.
This is one of the three peer reviews which are guided by questions. Very useful.
Reviewer 1
I was struck by the spring-loaded branches bouncing back and scattering
snow, the trees piercing the sky, the dark wooden chalet against the snow-laden
trees. The entire fantasy element and thick, deep woods crowded with vegetation
leave an image of an encompassing environment. The thick undulating blanket
which bulged over the edge is very vivid as are the archways of branches and
the loudest sound was her hurt. That last one is very powerful because it
brings the experience so close to her centre, both emotions and body.
The feeling is of joy and wonder, and it is very strong. It feels like a
calm yet sparkling place, beautiful in a fantasy-like way and peaceful. I expect
that they are going to have a night that is in tune with the setting --
peacefully joyful.
I feel that I'm seeing a complete environment for these two people at
this moment. They couldn't take in any more. I know there could be animals,
more specific vegetation, perhaps a stream running by, but I feel this is
enough. For my own personal tastes, maybe a little too much.
You also get casual comments from other participants, such as -
This moment is absolutely beautiful! It almost seems like it belongs in
a snow globe, and makes me want winter.
I recommend the course. It clashes with NaNoWriMo so you need to find enough hours to do both.
Thursday, 18 August 2016
MG Writing 8-12 year olds
I had an MG.
It was British Racing Green and not in the best of condition.
Someone crashed into it a few weeks after I bought it.
Ho hum.
No more MG.
But I digress, don't worry, this is a writing post.
MG = Middle Grade or 8-12 yr old readers.
My first book- self published was for this age group. Should have researched first, but putting it out in the world has helped me to move along the writing pathway.
My research says-
30-50,000 words max
Child characters
One major plot arc in a 3 act structure
Modern language- not patronising, not too complicated
Humour
Action
Short chapters with hooks
Fast plot
Little introspection
Mystery and Possibilities
Hints and clues
Series
No preaching, profanity, graphic violence or sex
Plus, of course, all the usual good writing techniques - dialogue to fit character, grammar, tight writing, active and powerful verbs, show not tell etc...
It was British Racing Green and not in the best of condition.
Someone crashed into it a few weeks after I bought it.
Ho hum.
No more MG.
But I digress, don't worry, this is a writing post.
MG = Middle Grade or 8-12 yr old readers.
My first book- self published was for this age group. Should have researched first, but putting it out in the world has helped me to move along the writing pathway.
My research says-
30-50,000 words max
Child characters
One major plot arc in a 3 act structure
Modern language- not patronising, not too complicated
Humour
Action
Short chapters with hooks
Fast plot
Little introspection
Mystery and Possibilities
Hints and clues
Series
No preaching, profanity, graphic violence or sex
Plus, of course, all the usual good writing techniques - dialogue to fit character, grammar, tight writing, active and powerful verbs, show not tell etc...
Wednesday, 17 August 2016
Pretzel your plot.
I have too much plot, but not enough twist.
How to plot twist effectively
Foreshadowed - the reader thinks one thing is going to happen, but something changes. Or it is surprising but inevitable.
Character Driven - Know your characters and build in reasons for the twist through character traits, likes, reactions, habits etc.
Character Struggles - allow them to almost succeed then change something. Make it more difficult for the character, Maybe the twist changes their view if the world.
Defy your reader- what is your reader expecting? Don't give them that. Bury clues in action scenes.
No Tricks - you do not want your reader to feel cheated, the twist needs to feel possible when it happens. No dreams.
Untrustworthy Narrator - especially if in deep point of view or first person - your character misunderstands what is happening or being said to them.
Reversal of role - give your character a personality flaw that allows them to turn from hero to villain or vice -versa.
Start in the middle. - start your story in the middle of the action. No backstory for the reader means the story is open ended and the unexpected is expected!
Kill a Character - a main character dying throws the plot in a new direction. make sure the reader cares and doesn't think you will let the character die.
Delight - the reader needs to be pleased with the twist and following outcome, they may hate you for killing a character but then understand why as the story progresses.
Reason - the plot twist needs to advance the story.
Enjoy plot twisting and eating pretzels.
How to plot twist effectively
Foreshadowed - the reader thinks one thing is going to happen, but something changes. Or it is surprising but inevitable.
Character Driven - Know your characters and build in reasons for the twist through character traits, likes, reactions, habits etc.
Character Struggles - allow them to almost succeed then change something. Make it more difficult for the character, Maybe the twist changes their view if the world.
Defy your reader- what is your reader expecting? Don't give them that. Bury clues in action scenes.
No Tricks - you do not want your reader to feel cheated, the twist needs to feel possible when it happens. No dreams.
Untrustworthy Narrator - especially if in deep point of view or first person - your character misunderstands what is happening or being said to them.
Reversal of role - give your character a personality flaw that allows them to turn from hero to villain or vice -versa.
Start in the middle. - start your story in the middle of the action. No backstory for the reader means the story is open ended and the unexpected is expected!
Kill a Character - a main character dying throws the plot in a new direction. make sure the reader cares and doesn't think you will let the character die.
Delight - the reader needs to be pleased with the twist and following outcome, they may hate you for killing a character but then understand why as the story progresses.
Reason - the plot twist needs to advance the story.
Enjoy plot twisting and eating pretzels.
Tuesday, 16 August 2016
Writing Humour
I have never seen myself as a funny person.
I like puns but have not used them in my writing.
I have a sci-fi story in my head and it needs humour. Not LOL all the time, but something to make the reader smile.
So how to make your reader smile, laugh, giggle?
What makes you laugh? - good starting point. Why do you find a line or situation funny? Note it , use it. Gather funny moments.
Character's voice - does your character speak without thinking? Is s/he easily misunderstood? Does s/he use humour rather than cry?
Misreading situations - humour can come from misunderstanding of an action or words
Descriptions - exaggerate, use loads of adjectives, go crazy and paint a funny picture.
Sexual innuendos - use them in inappropriate places , by accident.
Surprising - but needs a set up, a lead towards then the funny twist. Maybe use the rule of three - two similar ideas together - add the third.
Metaphors and Similes - use as descriptors to add comedy to a normal action. Bad similes work well in humour.
Change a cliche - the mind knows the end- you change it and the reader smirks.
Normal life with a twist - strange situations, exaggerated moments.
K words - why I don't know, but words containing the hard K sound are funnier!
Less is more - use humour sparingly, we cannot laugh continually and still read a good story.
Avoid sarcasm - because it often relies on infection and tone it can be too harsh when written.
Practice- try some out on your Facebook or twitter friends.
I have not dared to try making this post funny- one day I will have the confidence.
Are you a funny writer?
I like puns but have not used them in my writing.
I have a sci-fi story in my head and it needs humour. Not LOL all the time, but something to make the reader smile.
So how to make your reader smile, laugh, giggle?
What makes you laugh? - good starting point. Why do you find a line or situation funny? Note it , use it. Gather funny moments.
Character's voice - does your character speak without thinking? Is s/he easily misunderstood? Does s/he use humour rather than cry?
Misreading situations - humour can come from misunderstanding of an action or words
Descriptions - exaggerate, use loads of adjectives, go crazy and paint a funny picture.
Sexual innuendos - use them in inappropriate places , by accident.
Surprising - but needs a set up, a lead towards then the funny twist. Maybe use the rule of three - two similar ideas together - add the third.
Metaphors and Similes - use as descriptors to add comedy to a normal action. Bad similes work well in humour.
Change a cliche - the mind knows the end- you change it and the reader smirks.
Normal life with a twist - strange situations, exaggerated moments.
K words - why I don't know, but words containing the hard K sound are funnier!
Less is more - use humour sparingly, we cannot laugh continually and still read a good story.
Avoid sarcasm - because it often relies on infection and tone it can be too harsh when written.
Practice- try some out on your Facebook or twitter friends.
I have not dared to try making this post funny- one day I will have the confidence.
Are you a funny writer?
Monday, 15 August 2016
World Building - Religion
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Creating a religion is not something I have attempted to do yet.
It is something I need for one of my stories in waiting so I have been dong some research.
So far-
Why have religion in your story?- religion has influenced much of the real world , if there is not religion in your fantasy world there may be a gap.
What does it need to do? - Explain the explainable, provide hope, purpose, conflicts and if they are essential to your story - prophecies.
What does it look like?
Tell all sides - you are not preaching so ensure all sides are told. Different characters have different viewpoints of the same religion as well as different religions.
Base on a real religion - it will feel more realistic - adapt for your world and characters- a desert religion will not be appropriate for an ice planet.
It can be important to the characters - either as a believer or an atheist.
It may be background - if it is not important to the characters but exists in the world, mention it lightly during interactions with others or buildings or a story.
Be aware of your own beliefs - aspects of your beliefs will influence your story.
May be linked to your magic system - maybe the gods give their followers magic.
Consider creation and afterlife - how will this effect your plot and characters?
Rituals, songs, prophecies. - It may explain behaviour. If you have prophecies be original with them in some way.
Read -read fantasy stories which are based on religion, Read like a writer and highlight how the religion is woven into the story and used to give the story momentum.
Not easy then.
Good luck.
Creating a religion is not something I have attempted to do yet.
It is something I need for one of my stories in waiting so I have been dong some research.
So far-
Why have religion in your story?- religion has influenced much of the real world , if there is not religion in your fantasy world there may be a gap.
What does it need to do? - Explain the explainable, provide hope, purpose, conflicts and if they are essential to your story - prophecies.
What does it look like?
Tell all sides - you are not preaching so ensure all sides are told. Different characters have different viewpoints of the same religion as well as different religions.
Base on a real religion - it will feel more realistic - adapt for your world and characters- a desert religion will not be appropriate for an ice planet.
It can be important to the characters - either as a believer or an atheist.
It may be background - if it is not important to the characters but exists in the world, mention it lightly during interactions with others or buildings or a story.
Be aware of your own beliefs - aspects of your beliefs will influence your story.
May be linked to your magic system - maybe the gods give their followers magic.
Consider creation and afterlife - how will this effect your plot and characters?
Rituals, songs, prophecies. - It may explain behaviour. If you have prophecies be original with them in some way.
Read -read fantasy stories which are based on religion, Read like a writer and highlight how the religion is woven into the story and used to give the story momentum.
Not easy then.
Good luck.
Sunday, 14 August 2016
Reading like a writer - Jonathon Unleashed.
This is not a book review but a review of what I have learn from a book.
Jonathon Unleashed by Meg Rosoff
I enjoyed this book, staying up late to continue reading, but I also kept a part of my brain in writer mode.
What have I learnt?
Meg Rosoff has a voice.
I listened to her keynote speech at Winchester and when I read this book I could hear her voice, her humour and her opinions on the world.
I want to have a distinct voice too. Something to work on.
The main plot is simple
It is very simple. There is a dog sub plot and some romance, but essentially the plot is simple.
Mine are still too complicated. I need to strip them back to bones. Find out what is truly needed for my charter to grow.
The story deals with a human emotion
Jonathon is drifting through life, not knowing what he wants or where he is going. He takes the path of least resistance, but it doesn't work out. he has to think about what he wants out of life.
Gracie wants to be normal so she hides her abilities. It doesn't work out. She has to accept who she is.
Okay, I think that part of The Finder works.
There are few dialogue tags
There are some 'said's but generally she is using an action before or after speech to indicate who is talking.
I do this, I think I have this sussed.
There are memorable secondary characters
The secondary characters all have very distinctive traits.
I do not have many secondary characters, I think they are distinguishable. My story is not as tongue in cheek or numerous as this one, so maybe they are ok. I will check.
The main character has a distinct voice
Not only in his speech , but his thoughts too.
Gracie is not as crazy as Jonathon. Is her voice distinct? I am not sure.
The sentence lengths vary
I did have atrait of long senetnecs, I need to check I haven't gone too short.
The chapter lengths vary
This moves the pace and rhythm of the story along well.
I do this.
It has a gentle ending after resolution.
This gentle tail off after resolution of the main plot was spoken about at the conference. I can see how it works.
Mine is too abrupt at the moment. Something to keep in mind when I get to the end of this rewrite.
That's it, apart from the fierce desire to have a book published that people stay up late reading, forcing their eyes to remain open.
Jonathon Unleashed by Meg Rosoff
What have I learnt?
Meg Rosoff has a voice.
I listened to her keynote speech at Winchester and when I read this book I could hear her voice, her humour and her opinions on the world.
I want to have a distinct voice too. Something to work on.
The main plot is simple
It is very simple. There is a dog sub plot and some romance, but essentially the plot is simple.
Mine are still too complicated. I need to strip them back to bones. Find out what is truly needed for my charter to grow.
The story deals with a human emotion
Jonathon is drifting through life, not knowing what he wants or where he is going. He takes the path of least resistance, but it doesn't work out. he has to think about what he wants out of life.
Gracie wants to be normal so she hides her abilities. It doesn't work out. She has to accept who she is.
Okay, I think that part of The Finder works.
There are few dialogue tags
There are some 'said's but generally she is using an action before or after speech to indicate who is talking.
I do this, I think I have this sussed.
There are memorable secondary characters
The secondary characters all have very distinctive traits.
I do not have many secondary characters, I think they are distinguishable. My story is not as tongue in cheek or numerous as this one, so maybe they are ok. I will check.
The main character has a distinct voice
Not only in his speech , but his thoughts too.
Gracie is not as crazy as Jonathon. Is her voice distinct? I am not sure.
The sentence lengths vary
I did have atrait of long senetnecs, I need to check I haven't gone too short.
The chapter lengths vary
This moves the pace and rhythm of the story along well.
I do this.
It has a gentle ending after resolution.
This gentle tail off after resolution of the main plot was spoken about at the conference. I can see how it works.
Mine is too abrupt at the moment. Something to keep in mind when I get to the end of this rewrite.
That's it, apart from the fierce desire to have a book published that people stay up late reading, forcing their eyes to remain open.
Friday, 12 August 2016
I'll write a picture book.
Easier said than done
I have several picture book stories I wrote when teaching primary children. I am thinking of looking at them with a view to publish.
This is the advice I have gleaned from blogs, sites, agents, publishers..
It's hard - they may be only 500- 1000 words, but they need the same narrative and care as a novel.
Read as many picture books as you can and absorb the rhythm to the succinct use of words. One person suggested you need to read 500 picture books before you write one. I think I have done this.
Find a character - something alive is preferable to an object. Mick Inkpen wrote about a balloon but it was with a boy. On it's own it would have been a weak story.
Find a theme - make it emotional not a message. Children do not like to be lectured. Heavy morals are a no go.
Narrative - Solve a problem. It may be short but it needs a story structure. Do not end the book by waking up.
Write - for lively, clever children - don't patronise.
Said - is all you need for a dialogue tag.
Show not Tell - although the illustrations will show much tot he reader the words must do this too.
Think about the adults - Remember it will be adults who have to read the story over and over, make sure they can enjoy it too.
Read it aloud - Listen for the rhythm. Ask a friend to read it aloud to you.
Re-Write- as many times as needed. Every word and punctuation must count.
Make it - Fold paper to make 32 pages- leave the first 2 blank. Does your text fit? Page turning in a picture book is important.
Read it to children - and adults.
Do Not -
Rhyme - wait until you have written a few and understood the rhythm.
Illustrate - unless you are a professional artist.
Find an illustrator - Publishers have their own
Do - enjoy the experience and have a few ready before approaching an agent or publisher. They may ask to see something else you have written.
Oh and a few more hours each day would be great too!
I have several picture book stories I wrote when teaching primary children. I am thinking of looking at them with a view to publish.
This is the advice I have gleaned from blogs, sites, agents, publishers..
It's hard - they may be only 500- 1000 words, but they need the same narrative and care as a novel.
Read as many picture books as you can and absorb the rhythm to the succinct use of words. One person suggested you need to read 500 picture books before you write one. I think I have done this.
Find a character - something alive is preferable to an object. Mick Inkpen wrote about a balloon but it was with a boy. On it's own it would have been a weak story.
Find a theme - make it emotional not a message. Children do not like to be lectured. Heavy morals are a no go.
Narrative - Solve a problem. It may be short but it needs a story structure. Do not end the book by waking up.
Write - for lively, clever children - don't patronise.
Said - is all you need for a dialogue tag.
Show not Tell - although the illustrations will show much tot he reader the words must do this too.
Think about the adults - Remember it will be adults who have to read the story over and over, make sure they can enjoy it too.
Read it aloud - Listen for the rhythm. Ask a friend to read it aloud to you.
Re-Write- as many times as needed. Every word and punctuation must count.
Make it - Fold paper to make 32 pages- leave the first 2 blank. Does your text fit? Page turning in a picture book is important.
Read it to children - and adults.
Do Not -
Rhyme - wait until you have written a few and understood the rhythm.
Illustrate - unless you are a professional artist.
Find an illustrator - Publishers have their own
Do - enjoy the experience and have a few ready before approaching an agent or publisher. They may ask to see something else you have written.
Oh and a few more hours each day would be great too!
Thursday, 11 August 2016
No research - it's Fantasy.
Even fantasy needs to be believable.
I thought I didn't do much research before writing my first draft,just looking up things as needed. My story ideas ferment slowly in my head before I commit them to paper. I am researching elements without realising. Now I want to do it with purpose too.
Why research?
You are less likely to jolt a reader our of the story if you understand simple facts and rules.
Military tactics for battle scenes , deployment of troops etc
Animals - care of / under stress / natural reactions.
City politics - a few details here can keep the reader believing.
Royal protocol - invent your own but make it real.
Folklore - if you know this you can avoid cliches
Culture - especially if you are creating a different race.
Chain reactions - if your magic involves chemicals you do not need to be a scientist but a little knowledge helps.
Weather- if you wish to create a magic related to weather its best to know how weather systems work and the consequences of messing with them.
Weapons - you need to know how a weapon works before you can customise it with magic.
Descriptions - often worth looking up pictures to get a few details well described. If you get a couple of small details right the reader believes you know it all!
But not too much.
You are not writing a textbook - use your research in a practical way.
The character may not know what to do, they can ask someone else to take care of the engine / animal etc.
You can use past experience.
Choose which issues need to be researched.
Your character can use common sense, they may get it wrong but that adds to the story.
Enjoy your research, Most of what you learn you will not use, but the knowledge creates a foundation for your story.
I thought I didn't do much research before writing my first draft,just looking up things as needed. My story ideas ferment slowly in my head before I commit them to paper. I am researching elements without realising. Now I want to do it with purpose too.
Why research?
You are less likely to jolt a reader our of the story if you understand simple facts and rules.
Military tactics for battle scenes , deployment of troops etc
Animals - care of / under stress / natural reactions.
City politics - a few details here can keep the reader believing.
Royal protocol - invent your own but make it real.
Folklore - if you know this you can avoid cliches
Culture - especially if you are creating a different race.
Chain reactions - if your magic involves chemicals you do not need to be a scientist but a little knowledge helps.
Weather- if you wish to create a magic related to weather its best to know how weather systems work and the consequences of messing with them.
Weapons - you need to know how a weapon works before you can customise it with magic.
Descriptions - often worth looking up pictures to get a few details well described. If you get a couple of small details right the reader believes you know it all!
But not too much.
You are not writing a textbook - use your research in a practical way.
The character may not know what to do, they can ask someone else to take care of the engine / animal etc.
You can use past experience.
Choose which issues need to be researched.
Your character can use common sense, they may get it wrong but that adds to the story.
Enjoy your research, Most of what you learn you will not use, but the knowledge creates a foundation for your story.
Wednesday, 10 August 2016
The Big Beginning
Create an awesome beginning
The first word invites the reader to the second.
The first sentence entices the reader to the second.
The first paragraph ensures the reader will continue to the second...I'm sure you get the idea.
How?
Distinctive voice.
Action - something happening , it does not need to be big.
Speech - but not dialogue as the first line.
Hint at the plot.
Introduce your character.
Something familiar but original.
A promise to the reader of what is to come. - Don't let them down.
A clear hint of the genre.
Create questions in the readers mind.
Begin in the third part of a scene.
A factual statement.
A statement of wonder.
Start with a conflict or dilemma.
Avoid -
Backstory
Info-dump.
Starting the story too early - sometimes its worth cutting your first chapter entirely.
Cliches - The dream. Awakening. An hallucination. A daydream.
Setting a scene.
Revisit your beginning when you have reached the end and check if it is doing its job. Sometime the story has changed from its original pathway and a new beginning is needed.
The first word invites the reader to the second.
The first sentence entices the reader to the second.
The first paragraph ensures the reader will continue to the second...I'm sure you get the idea.
How?
Distinctive voice.
Action - something happening , it does not need to be big.
Speech - but not dialogue as the first line.
Hint at the plot.
Introduce your character.
Something familiar but original.
A promise to the reader of what is to come. - Don't let them down.
A clear hint of the genre.
Create questions in the readers mind.
Begin in the third part of a scene.
A factual statement.
A statement of wonder.
Start with a conflict or dilemma.
Avoid -
Backstory
Info-dump.
Starting the story too early - sometimes its worth cutting your first chapter entirely.
Cliches - The dream. Awakening. An hallucination. A daydream.
Setting a scene.
Revisit your beginning when you have reached the end and check if it is doing its job. Sometime the story has changed from its original pathway and a new beginning is needed.
Tuesday, 9 August 2016
Eat waffle, don't write it.
Strong prose is immediate, concrete and precise.
I know a strong prose helps the reader become immersed in the story, but like many writers my first draft is full of waffle.
How to cut the fluff?
Immediate -
Active verbs not passive. I was going to the shop = I went.
He half-ran = He jogged / trotted
He continued to walk forward = he strode
She knew she needed = She needed
I thought I wanted =I wanted
He began to sneeze = He sneezed
Concrete -
Evoke senses, be tangible.
Show not tell.
Rather than describing the library as immense, describe what the character sees, smells, hears, notices. This will not only feed the reader's imagination but tell the reader something about the character.
Precise -
Choose your words carefully.
Every word adds to the story.
Usually it means using fewer words, cutting your first draft by 20%. He ran very quickly =he dashed.
If you use the generic word such as dog or boat or flower - the reader may imagine something different from you. Mastiff, Gondola, Daisy are precise.
Replace explanatory phrases with a word. The clouds dropped their heavy load of water =It rained.
I know a strong prose helps the reader become immersed in the story, but like many writers my first draft is full of waffle.
How to cut the fluff?
Immediate -
Active verbs not passive. I was going to the shop = I went.
He half-ran = He jogged / trotted
He continued to walk forward = he strode
She knew she needed = She needed
I thought I wanted =I wanted
He began to sneeze = He sneezed
Concrete -
Evoke senses, be tangible.
Show not tell.
Rather than describing the library as immense, describe what the character sees, smells, hears, notices. This will not only feed the reader's imagination but tell the reader something about the character.
Precise -
Choose your words carefully.
Every word adds to the story.
Usually it means using fewer words, cutting your first draft by 20%. He ran very quickly =he dashed.
If you use the generic word such as dog or boat or flower - the reader may imagine something different from you. Mastiff, Gondola, Daisy are precise.
Replace explanatory phrases with a word. The clouds dropped their heavy load of water =It rained.
Monday, 8 August 2016
The Cost of Magic
You can buy magic - where?
To have a magic system that is believable it needs rules and a cost or consequence.
When Frodo uses the ring Sauron can see him.
In Dune the magic is linked to religion and politics- the cost of using it has huge ramifications.
Magic is often addictive.
A superhero's magic has limits.
Create an Awesome Magic System -
Understand - the reader needs to understand the rules of the magic and how it works before it is used to solve a conflict. The writer need to understand the magic to see where conflicts may be created. But have an element of mystery to the magic too. Let the character find out more as the story progresses.In Harry Potter new magic rules are learnt as the characters progress through the school.
Limitations- sometimes the limitations are more interesting than the magic. In the case of a superpower the limitation is what makes the character more likeable, more human.
Be Clever - give your characters magic but have them use it in a surprising way. Maybe the hero discovers no man can kill the monster. He needs to find a woman to do it for him.
Be Realistic - if magic is telekinesis don't move goods by carriage or train - unless there is a reason for this. If magic creates light then candle makers and wax makers go out of business.
Be Emotional - the character may have to learn the cost - and live with the cost. Creates tension, conflict, dilemma. The character need to be changed by the magic.
Be Descriptive - What does it feel like to hold, wield, create, release magic? Use all the senses to help the reader with their desire to be magical too.
Be Unique - take a common magic cost and twist it. Using magic makes you age becomes using magic makes the people you love age. It can be a tool, a language, a gift, an art, good, evil, inherited, found. Is it an internal or external magic?
Now go and create Magic -
As a writer you are creating something from nothing.
You have an internal magic which flows through your fingers.
You know the cost.
To have a magic system that is believable it needs rules and a cost or consequence.
When Frodo uses the ring Sauron can see him.
In Dune the magic is linked to religion and politics- the cost of using it has huge ramifications.
Magic is often addictive.
A superhero's magic has limits.
Create an Awesome Magic System -
Understand - the reader needs to understand the rules of the magic and how it works before it is used to solve a conflict. The writer need to understand the magic to see where conflicts may be created. But have an element of mystery to the magic too. Let the character find out more as the story progresses.In Harry Potter new magic rules are learnt as the characters progress through the school.
Limitations- sometimes the limitations are more interesting than the magic. In the case of a superpower the limitation is what makes the character more likeable, more human.
Be Clever - give your characters magic but have them use it in a surprising way. Maybe the hero discovers no man can kill the monster. He needs to find a woman to do it for him.
Be Realistic - if magic is telekinesis don't move goods by carriage or train - unless there is a reason for this. If magic creates light then candle makers and wax makers go out of business.
Be Emotional - the character may have to learn the cost - and live with the cost. Creates tension, conflict, dilemma. The character need to be changed by the magic.
Be Descriptive - What does it feel like to hold, wield, create, release magic? Use all the senses to help the reader with their desire to be magical too.
Be Unique - take a common magic cost and twist it. Using magic makes you age becomes using magic makes the people you love age. It can be a tool, a language, a gift, an art, good, evil, inherited, found. Is it an internal or external magic?
Now go and create Magic -
As a writer you are creating something from nothing.
You have an internal magic which flows through your fingers.
You know the cost.
Saturday, 6 August 2016
Editing Layers
I can edit the layers of rainbow cake- no problem.
Editing a story is slower, but as satisfying - honest. In fact it is more satisfying because at the end you will not have stomach ache and problems with your trouser buttons, but a good, well-written story.
Rewriting is the key to good writing.
Editing and revising is always necessary - no-one writes a polished story in a first draft.
I can write a first draft in 4-6 weeks, but it takes 6-12 months to revise, edit and rewrite before thinking about approaching an agent. You will continue to rewrite for the agent, and then the publisher!
What can make it easier?
Patience - put your first draft away for at least a month, come back to it with a fresh mind. If possible work on something else while you let it ferment.
Positive attitude- you'll need it, it can be soul destroying to pick over a chapter and then pass it on for someone to read. They find a mistake in the first sentence - ahhh.
Time- in chunks. Oh yeah,you need lots of time, but pace yourself. After an hour, or whatever suits your attention span, take a sort break to refresh and refocus. Leave time between edits too - a week is good. You'll have fresh eyes again.
Edit in layers- First maybe to find and replace certain words such as bit, little, nice, that etc. There is a good list in Marcy Kennedy's Busy Writer's Guides. The next layer maybe focusing on showing not telling, looking for plot problems, changing passive verbs to active ones, looking for repetition- not of a word but of an idea, the dialogue and dialogue tags , creating tighter descriptions...
Read aloud - Where you stumble, the reader will stumble. You will find sticky sentences, spelling and grammar errors, inconsistencies in characters voice etc . When we read silently our mind often corrects problems subconsciously. Reading aloud is active. I am not very good at this part, I start aloud and then lapse into silence!
Never delete - I save each edit as a separate file. You may remove huge chunks of your story, keep them somewhere, they might be used in a different way, as a memory, or in a sequel.
Be brave- you need others to read and give you feedback. Writing groups can be very useful or online writing communities like Wattpad and WriteOn.
Learn - accept peoples opinions, however negative they may feel at first glance. They are your audience, listen to them.
Be thorough - when you think you have done all you can, look at each line- do you need all the words? Can you condense? Do you need the sentence? What is it adding to the story?
Stop - at some time you will need to stop. If you eat the whole cake you will be sick and never want to eat a rainbow again!
Let go of Perfectionism -The story will never be perfect even when professionals have helped and guided you. It can be a well-written, good story. Over editing may wash away your unique voice.
Phew- I'm exhausted just thinking about the process. Need cake.
Good luck and enjoy.
.
Editing a story is slower, but as satisfying - honest. In fact it is more satisfying because at the end you will not have stomach ache and problems with your trouser buttons, but a good, well-written story.
Rewriting is the key to good writing.
Editing and revising is always necessary - no-one writes a polished story in a first draft.
I can write a first draft in 4-6 weeks, but it takes 6-12 months to revise, edit and rewrite before thinking about approaching an agent. You will continue to rewrite for the agent, and then the publisher!
What can make it easier?
Patience - put your first draft away for at least a month, come back to it with a fresh mind. If possible work on something else while you let it ferment.
Positive attitude- you'll need it, it can be soul destroying to pick over a chapter and then pass it on for someone to read. They find a mistake in the first sentence - ahhh.
Time- in chunks. Oh yeah,you need lots of time, but pace yourself. After an hour, or whatever suits your attention span, take a sort break to refresh and refocus. Leave time between edits too - a week is good. You'll have fresh eyes again.
Edit in layers- First maybe to find and replace certain words such as bit, little, nice, that etc. There is a good list in Marcy Kennedy's Busy Writer's Guides. The next layer maybe focusing on showing not telling, looking for plot problems, changing passive verbs to active ones, looking for repetition- not of a word but of an idea, the dialogue and dialogue tags , creating tighter descriptions...
Read aloud - Where you stumble, the reader will stumble. You will find sticky sentences, spelling and grammar errors, inconsistencies in characters voice etc . When we read silently our mind often corrects problems subconsciously. Reading aloud is active. I am not very good at this part, I start aloud and then lapse into silence!
Never delete - I save each edit as a separate file. You may remove huge chunks of your story, keep them somewhere, they might be used in a different way, as a memory, or in a sequel.
Be brave- you need others to read and give you feedback. Writing groups can be very useful or online writing communities like Wattpad and WriteOn.
Learn - accept peoples opinions, however negative they may feel at first glance. They are your audience, listen to them.
Be thorough - when you think you have done all you can, look at each line- do you need all the words? Can you condense? Do you need the sentence? What is it adding to the story?
Stop - at some time you will need to stop. If you eat the whole cake you will be sick and never want to eat a rainbow again!
Let go of Perfectionism -The story will never be perfect even when professionals have helped and guided you. It can be a well-written, good story. Over editing may wash away your unique voice.
Phew- I'm exhausted just thinking about the process. Need cake.
Good luck and enjoy.
.
Friday, 5 August 2016
Jumping around
This is not about trampolining it's Third Person Limited Perspective
This is what I understand so far - although often I feel like I can diving in without a clue!
It is a fun perspective, you can change the viewpoint to more than one character. This can be confusing for the writer and reader. Ensure a new viewpoint is clearly marked - the characters name at the beginning of a chapter is common.
Remember in this style the narrator does not have a voice - this would be omniscient.
What is good about it?
Many viewpoints.
Characters are she, he, and they, not I, we, and us.
This is when you have a given scene from a particular characters viewpoint. Nothing is written that the character cannot see or know. For example they cannot see their cheeks redden, they can feel the heat.
Description is through a characters eyes, what they can't see you don't write.
It is a reliable perspective as the reader can obtain more information from many sources.
Thoughts are generally in italics or ".."she thought or - ...- I hate italics as they are hard to read, my eyes are not as good as they used to be!
You can swap between close up narrative - as if you are on the character's shoulder- and camera - as if you are watching the scene from a camera mounted on the wall.
I am still a little confused between this and first person - ho hum, I'll get there. I think I have written Intimate Lines in third limited.
Here is an excerpt -
This is what I understand so far - although often I feel like I can diving in without a clue!
It is a fun perspective, you can change the viewpoint to more than one character. This can be confusing for the writer and reader. Ensure a new viewpoint is clearly marked - the characters name at the beginning of a chapter is common.
Remember in this style the narrator does not have a voice - this would be omniscient.
What is good about it?
Many viewpoints.
Characters are she, he, and they, not I, we, and us.
This is when you have a given scene from a particular characters viewpoint. Nothing is written that the character cannot see or know. For example they cannot see their cheeks redden, they can feel the heat.
Description is through a characters eyes, what they can't see you don't write.
It is a reliable perspective as the reader can obtain more information from many sources.
Thoughts are generally in italics or ".."she thought or - ...- I hate italics as they are hard to read, my eyes are not as good as they used to be!
You can swap between close up narrative - as if you are on the character's shoulder- and camera - as if you are watching the scene from a camera mounted on the wall.
I am still a little confused between this and first person - ho hum, I'll get there. I think I have written Intimate Lines in third limited.
Here is an excerpt -
Nadia
watched him pull the door open with one hand whilst the other swept through his
wild hair. If he was trying to smarten his appearance before asking Jessica for
a favour, he was wasting his time. She lowered her head and the ghost of a
smile graced her lips. Jessica didn’t do favours, and he didn’t do smart. She
knew who he was. Jack Peterson, the college art teacher and heartthrob of many
a student’s dreams. He attended the gallery’s shows, pausing to admire a worthy
painting or wrinkling his nose in dismay at what some people call art. She had
watched him drinking coffee in the Cup and Kettle, so engrossed in a book that
he didn’t notice the tipping of the cup paused mid-flight, until a drip landed
on his jeans, adding to the artwork of stains.
‘Oh Jack darling, how pleasant to
see you on this miserable grey day,’ Jessica glided across the gallery and
place two perfectly formed air kisses either side of his stubble shadowed
cheeks. Her eyes flitted across his dishevelled appearance and her nose twitched.
Jack smiled. ‘Jessica. You are looking as
beautiful as ever. How is business?’ He glanced around the pristine gallery
with its most recent works of art displayed in a sensitive and attractive
manner.
Thursday, 4 August 2016
Whose head are you in?
First person narrative
When I began writing my stories I had no idea what viewpoint I was writing in, I wrote. I have learnt it is a good idea to think about this before writing the story!
I am working towards wise old owl status.
These notes are a culmination of my understanding from various places.
First Person is a -
Personality driven narrative - you read the story through their emotional reactions and perception.
An unreliable voice - you see the narrative through the character's eyes - it is an easy way to trick the reader into believing one aspect of a situation, or believing malice when there is none.
Very common in YA books as it is easy to identify with someone whose emotions you are intimate with.
A way to build immediacy and urgency - not about where they are but why they are there.
Full of introspection and character thoughts and opinions.
Based on fewer characters- if you have more than one make sure you start a new chapter or make it very clear you have changed heads!
Way to cheat on info dumps - hide past events and places in their memories and thoughts.
The Finder is written in first person and it is fun to use, but all the time you need to remember that you can only comment on what the viewpoint character is touching, seeing, feeling, smelling, or tasting.
When I began writing my stories I had no idea what viewpoint I was writing in, I wrote. I have learnt it is a good idea to think about this before writing the story!
I am working towards wise old owl status.
These notes are a culmination of my understanding from various places.
First Person is a -
Personality driven narrative - you read the story through their emotional reactions and perception.
An unreliable voice - you see the narrative through the character's eyes - it is an easy way to trick the reader into believing one aspect of a situation, or believing malice when there is none.
Very common in YA books as it is easy to identify with someone whose emotions you are intimate with.
A way to build immediacy and urgency - not about where they are but why they are there.
Full of introspection and character thoughts and opinions.
Based on fewer characters- if you have more than one make sure you start a new chapter or make it very clear you have changed heads!
Way to cheat on info dumps - hide past events and places in their memories and thoughts.
The Finder is written in first person and it is fun to use, but all the time you need to remember that you can only comment on what the viewpoint character is touching, seeing, feeling, smelling, or tasting.
Wednesday, 3 August 2016
Character voice - as individual as a snowflake.
As in real life each character needs to sound different to the reader.
Get to know your characters by -
Taking them out for coffee - see earlier post in July
Draw them - you don't have to be an artist this helps you to visualise their physical characteristics which will influence how they sound.
Draw where they live - again helps you to see and hear them at home. How differently will they sound when placed in a stressful environment?
Fill in a character questionnaire - there are loads to choose from - imagine you are asking the character the questions and listen to the rhythm of their speech, the vocabulary they use.
Find their flaws- what is the worst thing they have done? Do they carry shame in their body? Voice? Avoid talking about certain subjects?
Look at yourself -What makes you sound different from your family members or friends? How is your speech different from your child's?
Think about mannerisms and non-verbal body language- does your character use their hands while talking, do they look down when they lie? Do they cough when nervous?
Place each of your characters in a situation and watch how they react. What will they remember? How would they describe it? Which sense is dominant- do they remember the smells or sounds etc.?
Great exercise -
You have 800- 1000 words.
Write about three characters in the same place, together. They talk about a remembered event. Each has their own perspective. How do their voices differ?
It was an assignment - here's my attempt.
Get to know your characters by -
Taking them out for coffee - see earlier post in July
Draw them - you don't have to be an artist this helps you to visualise their physical characteristics which will influence how they sound.
Draw where they live - again helps you to see and hear them at home. How differently will they sound when placed in a stressful environment?
Fill in a character questionnaire - there are loads to choose from - imagine you are asking the character the questions and listen to the rhythm of their speech, the vocabulary they use.
Find their flaws- what is the worst thing they have done? Do they carry shame in their body? Voice? Avoid talking about certain subjects?
Look at yourself -What makes you sound different from your family members or friends? How is your speech different from your child's?
Think about mannerisms and non-verbal body language- does your character use their hands while talking, do they look down when they lie? Do they cough when nervous?
Place each of your characters in a situation and watch how they react. What will they remember? How would they describe it? Which sense is dominant- do they remember the smells or sounds etc.?
Great exercise -
You have 800- 1000 words.
Write about three characters in the same place, together. They talk about a remembered event. Each has their own perspective. How do their voices differ?
It was an assignment - here's my attempt.
'It's like, so weirdy. Why d'we celebrate Christmas?' Pippa asked as she wandered around the small lounge, touching the little silver and gold metal stars her mother had strewn on the black reflective surface of the table. 'And why stars? We can see all the stars we want.' She gestured at the expanse of space through the glass that graced one side of the room.
'Because we have to remember, Pippa. It would be too easy to forget traditions, too easy to think that this is normal life. You need to remember or you will never adapt when we reach Quintana.' Claire stepped back into the galley kitchen and made hot chocolate the old fashioned way. The rich, sweet, smell chased her mind back to one particular Christmas Eve.
'Remember the Chalet?' She called out to her daughter, it was more of a plea than a question. Tears blurred her vision and she grasped the curved edge of the pristine work surface, it was cold, not warm like her well-used, wooden kitchen table back home. She shook her head, not home anymore. It was cold that Christmas when Dan had whisked them off to a chalet in the Alps. Three days of pure white snow that turned into glitter when thrown in the air. She had laughed like a child and the magic of Christmas had sunk into her heart. The small, dark-wood chalet, contrasted against the snow and tall, frosted pine trees, had looked like an elf's house. Downstairs there was only one room, dominated by a crackling wood fire, it had felt safe and warm. Upstairs were two bedrooms with sloping roof beams that Dan forgot on numerous occasions, each time he held his head and rolled on the bed, squealing like a piglet. She and Pippa had laughed until their sides ached. She brushed away the tears and sighed at the compact, efficient space. It was not a kitchen. She lifted two of the mugs and stepped through to the lounge.
'Mum,' Claire placed the mugs on the table before turning to retrieve the last one. 'Smell this. It's real hot chocolate, like we had in the chalet. What a lovely Christmas that was.'
Isabelle waited for the aroma to drift her way. 'Pippa love, be a darling and fetch my shawl, it could be cold tonight.' It was cold that Christmas at the chalet. Not in the pokey little rooms that poor Dan had fought his way around, but outside. Dan and Claire had insisted on a walk as the sun went down, Claire exclaiming over the colours, icicles and snow as if she were a child. Isabelle's hands and feet tingled as she remembered the biting cold that touched her bones. She reached for a mug and wrapped her hands around it. It was hot. 'Where did you get the real chocolate from? This must have cost an awful lot of work hours. Only for memories of a freezing Christmas.' She blew on the frothy top and lifted the drink to her lips.
Pippa raised her eyes to the curved, grey ceiling. 'Oh, Gran.' She said, not adding that the temperature was constant in the space ship. She took two steps to the door of her gran's room, reached inside and snagged the soft, faded-green shawl from its nook. She nuzzled it into her cheek and remembered climbing up creaking stairs, racing along a tinsel decorated corridor and searching through piles of cat-cuddled clothes to find 'The Christmas Shawl.'
'Here y'are, Gran.' She draped it around Isabelle's frail shoulders and hugged her briefly. Poor Gran, sh' missed earth.
'Thank you sweetie. You are a darling girl, even if you have forgotten how to speak properly. You were such a wee thing that year, the snow was taller than you. Do you remember?'
How could I not? Though Pippa. I am reminded every Christmas Eve.
Someone laughed in the corridor outside their apartment. It triggered a memory of her dad laughing and wrapping her in an enormous, multi-coloured quilt, but the picture faded as if she was looking through a comet-tail.
'Sometimes I think the memories s'not mine, but what you've told me.' She admitted as she sat on the fixed seat and picked up the last mug. 'Was there a quilt?'
Claire lowered her mug, unaware of the froth on her upper lip.
Pippa smiled.
Gran spoke, 'I do declare you are still a child, Claire.' She indicated her lip.
Claire giggled as she wiped it off, and then licked her finger. 'Yes, Christmas brings my inner child out. I had forgotten about the quilt. What did Dan call it?'
'A dream- quilt.' As Pippa sipped her chocolate crazy snow-creatures, a wild sledge ride and her dad's grin flashed through her mind.
'I miss snow,' said Claire. 'You were right about the stars Pippa. But I was too late to get snowflakes.'
'I miss Dad. He stuffed a pillow up his jumper and stuck cotton wool on his face.' Pippa span a silver star, it twinkled in the harsh light. 'Was that at the chalet?'
'No, that was at home.' Claire shut her eyes and pictured her husband. Would they ever share a Christmas again?
'I miss my home,' said Isabelle. 'However, under no circumstance do I miss the rain, or the cold.' She tugged the edges of her shawl together. 'Will it be cold on Quintana?'
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