As the summer sun beckons and the allure of vacation grows stronger, many of us writers find ourselves torn between the desire to relax and the need to keep our creative momentum going. I’ve faced this dilemma countless times, and I’m here to share some strategies that have helped me maintain productivity without sacrificing the joys of summer. Let’s explore how we can make the most of the season while still nurturing our writing careers.
Outsider art is created by those who don’t fit it. Or those who choose not to. Being true to one’s spirit brings me to my writer’s dilemma – highfalutin words: love ’em or leave ’em? Scribblers, decide how much of your authentic self you wish to expose, how commercially viable you may or may not be, and what kind of legacy you wish to bestow upon the world.
Whether you’re a seasoned author or just starting your literary journey, one thing is clear: a writer’s toolkit is like a treasure chest, filled with essential software and tools that can elevate your craft to new heights. So, gather ’round, my fellow wordsmiths, as I unveil the gems that have become my loyal companions in the quest for literary greatness.
As an author or writer, you understand the importance of honing your craft, but finding the right mentor can be akin to searching for a needle in a haystack. Fear not, for in this article, we’ll embark on a journey to uncover the secrets of finding your ideal writing coach, armed with statistics, insights, and the power of storytelling.
As the days grow longer and the temperature rises, summer presents both opportunities and challenges for writers. The season offers a wealth of inspiration, from beach scenes to sun-drenched afternoons, but it also brings distractions that can derail even the most dedicated writer.
In the heart of the Caribbean, under the canopy of swaying palms and against the rhythm of the ocean waves, a young girl named Leila listened to her grandmother’s tales. These stories, rich with folklore and history, were more than just bedtime entertainment—they were a window into the vibrant culture and resilient spirit of the Caribbean people. For authors and writers seeking to capture this essence in their work, crafting a book with a Caribbean theme is both a rewarding and intricate endeavor.
Mythology and folklore have long been a source of inspiration for writers, providing a rich tapestry of stories, characters, and themes to draw upon. As a writer who is passionate about both mythology and queer representation, I find the intersection of these two areas incredibly exciting and ripe with potential. Writing queer mythological books offers a unique opportunity to reimagine ancient tales and breathe new life into timeless narratives.
Father characters can be some of the most compelling figures in literature. They often serve as pillars of strength, sources of wisdom, or, in some cases, complex figures with their own sets of flaws and struggles. Creating believable and memorable father characters requires a delicate balance of understanding their roles, motivations, and relationships within the story.
As writers, we constantly seek ways to enhance our stories and captivate our readers from the very first page. One powerful tool to achieve this is the epigraph. An epigraph—a quote placed at the beginning of a book or chapter—can foreshadow themes, set the mood, and provide a lens through which readers interpret the narrative.
As writers, we often find ourselves tasked with portraying intimate and romantic scenes that are not only engaging but also respectful and realistic. These moments of vulnerability can be powerful tools for character development and plot advancement, but they also require careful handling to ensure they are portrayed sensitively and authentically. In this article, I’ll share guidelines for crafting intimate scenes that enhance character development while maintaining sensitivity and respect.
As writers, we are continually seeking innovative ways to tell stories and engage readers. One such approach is the epistolary novel, a narrative told through letters, diary entries, emails, or other documents. Epistolary novels offer a unique storytelling format that allows for intimate character development, intricate plot twists, and immersive world-building. In this article, I’ll explore the art of writing epistolary novels, discussing the challenges and opportunities they present.
Creating a Standout Synopsis In the journey from manuscript to published book, writing a book synopsis is one of the most crucial steps. This condensed summary of your novel is your ticket to capturing the attention of agents, editors, and…
So, you’ve finished your book. You’ve edited it yourself. You’ve combed through every word at least ten times and it couldn’t be more perfect. Your genius has been perfectly captured in your writing, and you’re ready to hit “Publish” and let the world bask in the glory of your literary prowess. But wait! There’s a little voice in your head saying “Hold on a minute, hotshot. Even the best writers need an editor.”
As an author, it’s not uncommon to feel like an imposter or doubt your abilities. The creative process can be a rollercoaster ride of highs and lows, and it’s easy to get stuck in a negative mindset. However, there are strategies you can use to overcome self-doubt and imposter syndrome, cultivate a positive author mindset, and become a more confident and productive writer.
In the vast world of literature, authors embark on a journey that commences with a blank page and culminates in a published book gracing shelves or illuminating screens. Along this intricate path, they encounter a plethora of choices, from sculpting characters to honing plots, from seeking representation to selecting the right publishing avenue. Each decision marks a pivotal moment, shaping the trajectory of their work and the terms under which it finds its audience.
Lucineh is the proud author of Lost Souls, published earlier this year. She is of British and French nationality and of Armenian descent. Lucineh has been an educator for nearly fifteen years and holds a bachelor’s and master’s degree. Lucineh is passionate about music, literature and languages and fiercely believes in the power of writing. When putting pen to paper, Lucineh loves to fully embody her characters’ thoughts and feelings, giving them the authenticity that each one deserves. Through her writing and creativity, Lucineh hopes to inspire both readers and aspiring writers!
Ricardo Moran’s writing has been published or is forthcoming in Beatific Magazine, Cider Press Review, Midwest Quarterly, Perceptions Magazine, East Jasmine Review, The Seattle Star, and Willa Cather Review. Ricardo is a member of the Nebraska Writers Guild;serves on the board of San Diego Writers Ink;and works as a content writer. He currently lives in Albania, enjoys traveling, and learning how to say “good morning” in as many languages as possible.
Kathryn Jeanne can usually be found somewhere by the beach. Whether she’s walking her dog, reading a book, or working on her next novel, she loves to be by the water. That is why she resides in sunny Santa Monica, California. Writing a novel was not in her original plans, but having read countless summer romance books she decided it was time to create her own. The more she wrote, the more she fell in love with the process and A Summer in Nixie came to life. Kathryn Jeanne doesn’t plan on stopping with just one book. She is already in the process of her second with more ideas on the way.
Kim Berkley is a fantasy author, narrative designer, and freelance writer with a talent for productive procrastination and a fondness for cats.
Janet is a multi-genre artist and design consultant. She’s a shining example of turning challenges into opportunities. Being creative to the core, her inspiration comes from nature and she’s following the urge within to dwell in the quiet stillness she has come to know. It is here that the words come—expressed through her writing, poetry, photography or art. She knows she is here to make a difference and help others get through the suffering and learn how to soar.