In my last post I described the rule-breaking writing exercises I'm working on with my writing group. I promised to post an example: Don’t write a tight plot. Sounds easy, right? But here we want to focus on how to write a story with multiple trajectories that don’t quite add up. How might this work? … Continue reading Going Plotless
writing process
Blind Spots
I was inspired to write this post after reading Nannus' Turning the Other Way which explains what blind spots are and how they apply to all thinking. It's directed toward everyone, artists and non-artists alike. It's beautifully written and a quick read, so please check it out first. It might inspire you to take a stroll … Continue reading Blind Spots
The False Note: Small Decisions in Writing
I found a nice excerpt from an article in the NYT which I think applies to all writing: Here is Amos Oz on writing a novel: "It is like reconstructing the whole of Paris from Lego bricks. It’s about three-quarters-of-a-million small decisions. It’s not about who will live and who will die and who will … Continue reading The False Note: Small Decisions in Writing
Rejection Letters
Today I got my first rejection letter for a short story, but it's good news. Here's why... It's better to receive a crappy one-line personal note than a form letter. It means you stood out in the slush pile. Someone took time out of his or her busy day to send you a personal reply. … Continue reading Rejection Letters
Cut the Crap: Write Short
I've been lackadaisical in my novel writing lately, so I thought I'd try this writing prompt at the 13th Floor Paradigm blog. It's something I've been wanting to do for a while. I can never seem to write short (just scroll down for proof of that), so I thought I could use some practice. Listen … Continue reading Cut the Crap: Write Short
