I went book shopping yesterday. I don't know why I picked up anything. I already had 130 books on my TBR list, three of which were recent arrivals via my boyfriend that I wanted to check out. And I already had six or seven that I have been sitting around various places in the house, [...]
Tag: mood
Ad Copy & Poetry: Kissing Cousins
Ad copy and poetry are about emotion. What's the result? The old tricks work for both.
On Intransitive Emotions: Emotional Writing Practice
Writing emotions is complicated. Do all your characters' emotions make sense? Tips for writing fiction and nonfiction.
Write like the Greats: Charles Bukowski
Emotion breaks across the page in poetry. I examine how Charles Bukowski hid vulnerability in his strength.
On Drinking, Smoking, & Drugs in Fiction
Readers think they're smart. Be prepared to go Gonzo rather than trying to trick them.
Chance, Luck, & The Deus ex Machina in Fiction Writing
Use chance and luck to explore subtle nuances of a character's choices and fufill their destiny.
Fullness of Absence: Capturing Silence in Writing
Silence as a space to be filled or cherished - the very idea made me think. Isn't silence already full?
Thoughts On Vampires: Death in Writing
Death is coming. For each of your characters. How will they live, knowing this truth? And what to do about vampires?
Editing for Creative Writing
Creativity is a gift. And a curse. Creative editors help writers make the most of their spark.
The Importance of Footwear in Fiction
Shoes connect people. Through time and space. Walk in your characters shoes - literally - to write better fiction.