Category: Friday’s Findings

  • FRIDAY’S FINDINGS

    FRIDAY’S FINDINGS

    Layering helps the writer flesh out her stories and novels. Applying this technique can break down the intimidation when it comes to a blank page and motivate the writer to tell the story one bit at a time. Before she knows it, the scene has been written. Here are some articles on layering: Layering and…

  • Friday’s Findings

    Friday’s Findings

    A few weeks ago, I started to read a book by a self-published author. As I chugged through the first chapter of this science-fiction novel, I was getting into the story, but one thing was annoying me. The author had really overdone it with the exclamation marks. Now, I’m not saying never use an exclamation…

  • Friday’s Findings

    Friday’s Findings

    One of my goals this year is to write at least one or two short stories. Short fiction is a great way to get some writing practice in — hone the craft, so to speak — and attain the satisfaction of completing a writing project. What are some writing goals for you in 2021? Inspirations…

  • Friday’s Findings

    Friday’s Findings

    It’s the first day of a new year, and I’m in my man cave. I’m sitting at my computer next to the window and it’s still dark outside. I can hear the rain falling and I find it soothing. First thing for 2021, I’m doing some of my favorite things: drinking caramel creme coffee; setting…

  • Friday’s Findings

    Friday’s Findings

    What makes writing bad? A thousand answers exist to that question. While it’s always a good idea to focus on honing the writing craft in a positive direction, knowing what not to do can’t hurt. The Bulwer Lytton contest has been showcasing disasters in fiction since the 80s. They’re cringe-worthy. They’re shocking. They’re hilarious. And…

  • Friday’s Findings

    Friday’s Findings

    It’s hard to believe almost a year ago I attended my first Imaginarium conference. This event brings together writers and editors of science fiction, fantasy, horror and other genres that fit into the “speculative fiction” category. Imaginarium offers workshops on honing the fiction writing craft and marketing a writer’s products This year, due to COVID-19,…

  • Friday’s Findings

    Friday’s Findings

    Well, I’ve done it. I’ve used two of my favorite things in juxtaposition: Bullet Journalling Evernote I started using Evernote to do my Bullet Journal. If you aren’t familiar with either and are interested in organizing your life, I recommend them both. Meanwhile, here are some articles on writing I’ve come across lately: How To…

  • Friday’s Findings

    Friday’s Findings

    Writing a novel, or even a short story, can be daunting. “I’ll never finish.” “I don’t have time.” “I’m not a good writer.” Everyone who writes fiction feels this way at times. Here are some habits I’ve picked up along the way to keep me from feeling overwhelmed: I email a scene idea to myself.…

  • Friday’s Findings

    Friday’s Findings

    Writing is healing. I haven’t hugged my mom since January. This thought occurred to me earlier this week, and I burst out in tears. Yes, we’ve gotten together for walks outside, wearing masks, keeping six feet apart. We talk on the phone once or twice a week. But I haven’t hugged her lately. So this…