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, and 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
Silence as a space to be filled or cherished - the very idea made me think. Isn't silence already full?
Thoughts On Vampires
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.