An Interview with Marilyn Whitehorse
In the topside world, I teach academic writing at a community college in Honolulu, Hawaii. In the river that flows beneath, I am a writer, collage artist, and photographer.
Atmosphere Press
Optimizing Your Writing Space for Creativity
As a writer who has experimented with various workspace setups over the years, I’ve come to realize the profound impact our environment can have on our creativity and productivity. The ancient Chinese practice of feng shui, often dismissed as mere superstition, actually offers some practical insights into creating a harmonious and inspiring writing space. In this article, I’ll explore how we can apply these principles to optimize our writing environments and potentially unlock new levels of creativity!
Crafting the Perfect Summer Romance: A Guide for Fiction Writers
I’ve always been fascinated by the enduring appeal of summer romance novels. There’s something magical about stories that unfold under the warm sun, against the backdrop of lazy beach days and endless possibilities. This magic isn’t just in the pages; it’s reflected in the publishing world too, where summer romances consistently top bestseller lists during the warmer months. Readers are eager to dive into stories that mirror the carefree spirit of the season, making summer romance a phenomenon that publishers and booksellers prepare for each year!
Discovering the Perfect Poolside Reads
As summer arrives in all its glory, bringing long, sun-drenched days and the gentle lull of waves, it’s the perfect time to indulge in some leisurely summer reading. There’s something magical about curling up with a good book by the pool or on the beach, where the world seems to slow down and the stories on the pages come to life. Whether you’re seeking inspiration, adventure, or a bit of mystery, there’s a perfect book waiting for you in this carefully curated summer reading list. Each selection promises to transport you to another world, making your sunny afternoons even more enjoyable.
Serialized Fiction: The Comeback of Episodic Storytelling
Writing trends come and go. But one trend that’s making a significant comeback and reshaping the way we tell stories is serialized fiction. This age-old format, once popularized by literary giants like Charles Dickens, is experiencing a renaissance in the digital age. Today, I’m excited to explore this resurgence and share insights on how authors can leverage this storytelling method to engage readers and potentially boost their careers!
The Writer’s Time Capsule: What Would You Tell Your Future Self?
As writers, we’re constantly evolving, learning, and growing. Our words today may inspire, guide, or even surprise our future selves. That’s why I’m excited to explore the concept of a writer’s time capsule – a unique way to capture our current thoughts, dreams, and advice for our future writing selves. If you’re looking for a creative exercise that not only preserves our present perspective but also serves as a powerful tool for reflection and growth in our writing journey, read on!
How to Stay Productive as a Writer During Summer
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.
The Inside Scoop on an Outsider Scribe
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.
The Writer’s Toolkit: Software, Apps, and Tools for Writing
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.
Finding a Writing Coach: A Journey to Enhance Your Craft
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.
Summer Writing Challenges
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.
Crafting Stories with a Caribbean Flair: A Guide for Writers
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.
Exploring and Writing Mythology Through a Queer Lens
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.
Writing Fictional Fathers
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.
Curating Epigraphs for Literary Impact
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.
Writing Intimate Scenes with Sensitivity
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.
The Art of Writing Epistolary Novels
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.
Writing a Book Synopsis That Sells
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…
Even Pro Writers Need Pro Editors
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.”
Author Mindset: Overcoming Self-Doubt
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.