The last two days of November are rife with author birthdays. Among the more well known are C.S. Lewis, Madeleine L'Engle, Louisa May Alcott (all on the 29th), Jonathan Swift, Samuel Clemens (Mark Twain), David Mamet, L.M. Montgomery and Winston Churchill (all on the 30th). While I have read a little of all of these, the ones I know best are the first four.
My father introduced me to Mark Twain when I was a child. I painted fences with Tom Sawyer, rafted the Mississippi with Huck Finn, jumped frogs in Calaveras County. Yes, his works may not be politically correct today, but they are good stories and well written. And they have stood the test of time - something all writers seek.
C.S. Lewis' Chronicles of Narnia afforded me endless hours of entertainment as I journeyed through the ways of Narnia. Today his stories have been made into movies that entertain us, but also bring whole new generations back to the books.
The one author I got to meet, Madeleine L'Engle, has enthralled thousands with her fantasy stories, but she is also a published poet and her inspirational works are nearly, if not more popular than her fictional stories.
For pure satire, we look to Jonathan Swift. Couched in the fantastic, as many political missives are, he makes a statement on government in his time. What is interesting is that things haven't changed much.
My writing may never reach the heights that these writers have. All I can do is keep trying; keep striving and use them and other noted authors as my guides. I believe a strong foundation in the classics is what gives new writers a solid base on which to build and these are some of the strongest. If you haven't looked lately - or ever - take a look at some of the authors who have been around for a long time. There's a reason why they're still being read.
Today's thought: "Luck is what happens when preparation meets opportunity." - Darrel Royal
Today's teaser: Take two characters from separate books and introduce them. For instance, what would happen if Tom Sawyer met Aslan? Or how would Jo March (Little Women) deal with the Lilliputs? Not into the classics? Try Scarlett O'Hara and Indiana Jones.
Thursday, November 30, 2006
Wednesday, November 29, 2006
More Downs than Ups
What is it with this week? It seems many of my friends are having bad weeks as well as my hubby and I. One friend fell and twisted her ankle badly - and this after dealing with a flooded office courtesy of our recent storms - then had car trouble with resulting expensive repairs. Another friend is ill; another dealing with family issues (mostly about money) and yesterday, my mother-in-law was in an accident (she's okay), but today we have to drive the eighty miles it takes to get to her in order to take care of issues.
Okay, that's enough. I'm building a fence...
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All the bad luck has to stay on that side of the fence. On this side are only good things. So say the mantra with me: Today will be a good day. Today will be a good day. Today will be a great day.
I wrote seven pages last night. The story is going well. And that is a good thing for me. How about you? How is your writing going?
Today's thought: Only those who dare to fail greatly can ever achieve greatly. - Robert Kennedy
Today's teaser: Just for yourself, take a piece of paper and list at least five good things in your life. Ten is even better. Put the list somewhere where you can look at it when you need it. If you want to post some positive thoughts, be my guest. We can all use some good news.
Okay, that's enough. I'm building a fence...
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All the bad luck has to stay on that side of the fence. On this side are only good things. So say the mantra with me: Today will be a good day. Today will be a good day. Today will be a great day.
I wrote seven pages last night. The story is going well. And that is a good thing for me. How about you? How is your writing going?
Today's thought: Only those who dare to fail greatly can ever achieve greatly. - Robert Kennedy
Today's teaser: Just for yourself, take a piece of paper and list at least five good things in your life. Ten is even better. Put the list somewhere where you can look at it when you need it. If you want to post some positive thoughts, be my guest. We can all use some good news.
Tuesday, November 28, 2006
Ups and Downs, Pt. 2
Please note: except for the thoughts/teaser - today's blog has nothing to do with writing. As usual, the teaser is at the end of the missive.
Yesterday was one of those good day/bad day type of days.
Down: I spent the night fighting insomnia (I lost) and was groggy most of the day.
Up: My hubby and I had plans to go shopping with our D-I-L and grandson.
Down: Just as she arrived to pick us up, our phone rang. My husband's kidney doctor wanted to know if he could come in that morning. (Note: My hubby has been fighting kidney disease for two years). What was odd was that we originally had an appointment scheduled, then the office called and rescheduled for January, now they wanted us in that morning. As my hubby had just finished a set of extensive tests, the call scared us more than a little.
Way Up: But the news was good as we found out he is in remission. The rescheduling was due to a change in the doctor's schedule not because of a problem.
Down: Stopped at a grocery store on the way home - they didn't have several things on my list so will have to go back out today to a different store to get the things I need.
Up: Celebrated with pizza for lunch - it's been one of the no-no's on my husband's very restricted diet.
Down: Got bills from the hospital for several of the procedures he had done in September. Their printout didn't match what we originally got so we will have to go to the accounting department to argue with them - again. Nine times he was in for the exact same procedure with exactly the same drugs, etc. Nine different bills; nine different charges; nine different fights. At least this will be the last time.
Up: Even though I was extremely groggy, I managed to get three pages written last night.
So at least the day ended on an upswing. A good day overall.
Today's thought: "He can who thinks he can, and he can't who thinks he can't. This is an inexorable, indisputable law." - Orison Marden
Today's teaser: Finish the following using a fan, fishing pole, keyboard: And so I trudged off to work, my stomach roiling....
Yesterday was one of those good day/bad day type of days.
Down: I spent the night fighting insomnia (I lost) and was groggy most of the day.
Up: My hubby and I had plans to go shopping with our D-I-L and grandson.
Down: Just as she arrived to pick us up, our phone rang. My husband's kidney doctor wanted to know if he could come in that morning. (Note: My hubby has been fighting kidney disease for two years). What was odd was that we originally had an appointment scheduled, then the office called and rescheduled for January, now they wanted us in that morning. As my hubby had just finished a set of extensive tests, the call scared us more than a little.
Way Up: But the news was good as we found out he is in remission. The rescheduling was due to a change in the doctor's schedule not because of a problem.
Down: Stopped at a grocery store on the way home - they didn't have several things on my list so will have to go back out today to a different store to get the things I need.
Up: Celebrated with pizza for lunch - it's been one of the no-no's on my husband's very restricted diet.
Down: Got bills from the hospital for several of the procedures he had done in September. Their printout didn't match what we originally got so we will have to go to the accounting department to argue with them - again. Nine times he was in for the exact same procedure with exactly the same drugs, etc. Nine different bills; nine different charges; nine different fights. At least this will be the last time.
Up: Even though I was extremely groggy, I managed to get three pages written last night.
So at least the day ended on an upswing. A good day overall.
Today's thought: "He can who thinks he can, and he can't who thinks he can't. This is an inexorable, indisputable law." - Orison Marden
Today's teaser: Finish the following using a fan, fishing pole, keyboard: And so I trudged off to work, my stomach roiling....
Monday, November 27, 2006
Ups and Downs
I told you about my friend who's contemplating quitting writing. That is still in the back of her mind, but today she's feeling better and looking at subbing to other agents and publishers. Yes, she may have to get a day job, but the writing will not stop.
That is the way of this business. A week ago, I was struggling to write a sentence. Last night, I wrote ten pages. Like everything else in life, writing has its ups and downs. Unfortunately, it often seems as though there are more downs than ups. This is a business of rejection. We write what we think is a wonderful story, clean it up, send it out with high hopes - and get rejected. Often multiple times.
Yes, I know there are those people out there who get snatched up with their first novel on their first try. While I congratulate them, I also envy them - and feel sorry for them in a way. Whether their first book does good or not doesn't matter. What matters is the second book. Maybe they have trouble writing it. Or maybe they have trouble selling it. By reaching the top of their game on the first try, they may take an even steeper tumble the second time around. (Or they may not - those people just frustrate me and spur me on). They have not learned the hard part of this business - sticking with it through the bad times. Keeping going in the face of rejections. Surviving this roller coaster ride that is the writing business.
To the rest of us who do struggle daily to make it to the top, know that you are not alone. There are many of us here on this slippery slope to success to toss you a rope when you need it. Yes, writing is a solitary endeavor - but making it to the top is better if you make friends along the way.
Today's thought: "Act as if what you do makes a difference. It does." - William James
Today's teaser: Symbols or props can be important in a story. Where would we be without the light saber in Star Wars? Holmes' pipe or Mary Poppins' umbrella? Do you have any symbolic props in your stories? Can you add them?
That is the way of this business. A week ago, I was struggling to write a sentence. Last night, I wrote ten pages. Like everything else in life, writing has its ups and downs. Unfortunately, it often seems as though there are more downs than ups. This is a business of rejection. We write what we think is a wonderful story, clean it up, send it out with high hopes - and get rejected. Often multiple times.
Yes, I know there are those people out there who get snatched up with their first novel on their first try. While I congratulate them, I also envy them - and feel sorry for them in a way. Whether their first book does good or not doesn't matter. What matters is the second book. Maybe they have trouble writing it. Or maybe they have trouble selling it. By reaching the top of their game on the first try, they may take an even steeper tumble the second time around. (Or they may not - those people just frustrate me and spur me on). They have not learned the hard part of this business - sticking with it through the bad times. Keeping going in the face of rejections. Surviving this roller coaster ride that is the writing business.
To the rest of us who do struggle daily to make it to the top, know that you are not alone. There are many of us here on this slippery slope to success to toss you a rope when you need it. Yes, writing is a solitary endeavor - but making it to the top is better if you make friends along the way.
Today's thought: "Act as if what you do makes a difference. It does." - William James
Today's teaser: Symbols or props can be important in a story. Where would we be without the light saber in Star Wars? Holmes' pipe or Mary Poppins' umbrella? Do you have any symbolic props in your stories? Can you add them?
Sunday, November 26, 2006
Keeping at it
I have a friend who is waiting for an agent's answer to her latest work. She's spoken with the agent and had high hopes, but the agent is now not so sure she'd be able to sell my friend's works. My friend writes sweet romance - but very long ones, not short category length. They are wonderful books. I've critiqued them and love them. But they will be a hard sell because there is no sex. Lots of romance and will she/won't she, but kisses is as far as it goes. There is a market out there, but it's not huge for this type and length of work.
So now my friend is thinking of quitting. She needs a source of income so may have to go to work outside the home. This is nothing new. Most writers have outside jobs. But her health is not good. If she goes to work full time, she may not be able to do anything else. Which would be a shame as readers would miss out on good stories.
Another friend is in a similar situation. She writes dark paranormal but may need to adjust how she does things as her family needs more income.
Both of these friends have the same thing in common - they have had the good fortune to be able to spend their time writing instead of trying to squeeze it in while working full time. Most writers don't have that luxury. I didn't until just a few years ago when my kids finally finished college (having four children in college at the same time puts a strain on the family budget) and we were able to breathe a little easier finance wise. But during that time, I did not lose sight of my goal - to be a full time writer. While I worked at other jobs, I also worked part time for two newspapers as a contracting journalist. I published articles in newsletters and magazines. I picked up jobs writing policy and procedures manuals for companies (I'm very good with detailed writing). I worked at learning my craft.
It took me a long time to sell and I'm not at the top of my game yet. But I know I will get there. I will not let the dream die. But there are days when the rejections get to me just as they do everyone. There are days where everything I write looks like crap and all I do is wonder why I do this to myself. There are days when I want to quit.
But then a little idea pops into my head and I have to write it down. And it nips at me until I do - and then expand on it. And before you know it, I have the bare bones of a story. And then I flesh it out. I cannot quit. A writer has to write. Even if I never make it to the big goal of print publication with the big boys... Even if I never sell another story. I am a writer. I cannot quit.
If nothing else, I have this blog and will write here. ;)
Today's thought: "Every noble work is at first impossible." - Thomas Carlyle
Today's teaser: Who is the person who most influenced your life? In what way?
So now my friend is thinking of quitting. She needs a source of income so may have to go to work outside the home. This is nothing new. Most writers have outside jobs. But her health is not good. If she goes to work full time, she may not be able to do anything else. Which would be a shame as readers would miss out on good stories.
Another friend is in a similar situation. She writes dark paranormal but may need to adjust how she does things as her family needs more income.
Both of these friends have the same thing in common - they have had the good fortune to be able to spend their time writing instead of trying to squeeze it in while working full time. Most writers don't have that luxury. I didn't until just a few years ago when my kids finally finished college (having four children in college at the same time puts a strain on the family budget) and we were able to breathe a little easier finance wise. But during that time, I did not lose sight of my goal - to be a full time writer. While I worked at other jobs, I also worked part time for two newspapers as a contracting journalist. I published articles in newsletters and magazines. I picked up jobs writing policy and procedures manuals for companies (I'm very good with detailed writing). I worked at learning my craft.
It took me a long time to sell and I'm not at the top of my game yet. But I know I will get there. I will not let the dream die. But there are days when the rejections get to me just as they do everyone. There are days where everything I write looks like crap and all I do is wonder why I do this to myself. There are days when I want to quit.
But then a little idea pops into my head and I have to write it down. And it nips at me until I do - and then expand on it. And before you know it, I have the bare bones of a story. And then I flesh it out. I cannot quit. A writer has to write. Even if I never make it to the big goal of print publication with the big boys... Even if I never sell another story. I am a writer. I cannot quit.
If nothing else, I have this blog and will write here. ;)
Today's thought: "Every noble work is at first impossible." - Thomas Carlyle
Today's teaser: Who is the person who most influenced your life? In what way?
Saturday, November 25, 2006
Revisions
I have a manuscript I have been trying to sell. I've had agents tell me it was good - one even went so far as to do a complete line edit before her boss rejected it. Right now, I'm waiting on four more agents. I believe in this story. I believe it's a good story. I just need to convince the powers that be that it's a good story.
But that doesn't mean it can't use some revisions. I just sent the beginning off to some friends of mine. Basically I'm getting back that I should probably scrap the first chapter. Although there is action, it's not enough to draw the reader in - too much back story I guess. So... that is my next project. Work on this story to make it even better.
And I will. I think today's thought is appropriate for my current state of mind. I'm aiming high with this one. I believe it's my best.
Today's thought: "In the long run, people hit only what they aim at. Therefore, they had better aim at something high." - Henry David Thoreau
Today's teaser: Write a brief scene about the first time you did something - rode a bike, drove a car, jumped out of an airplane - and how it made you feel. Remember those feelings and use them in a story.
But that doesn't mean it can't use some revisions. I just sent the beginning off to some friends of mine. Basically I'm getting back that I should probably scrap the first chapter. Although there is action, it's not enough to draw the reader in - too much back story I guess. So... that is my next project. Work on this story to make it even better.
And I will. I think today's thought is appropriate for my current state of mind. I'm aiming high with this one. I believe it's my best.
Today's thought: "In the long run, people hit only what they aim at. Therefore, they had better aim at something high." - Henry David Thoreau
Today's teaser: Write a brief scene about the first time you did something - rode a bike, drove a car, jumped out of an airplane - and how it made you feel. Remember those feelings and use them in a story.
Friday, November 24, 2006
The Delight of a Child
Today is my grandson's third birthday, although we celebrated yesterday when all were gathered for our big dinner.
Watching him open his presents (after his nap) brought back the memories of when my own children were small - their delight in the toys and games they received. My grandson's delight was no less intense. He ripped into the paper (with some help from Mommy and Daddy), and beheld what lay within. The bright smile on his face, his giggles and excitement brought smiles to everyone's faces.
Ah to be a child again.
But no, I like being an adult. Making my own choices. Doing what I want when I want. But we should all have a bit of the childlike delight also. That excitement that comes with each new day - new things to explore and learn; new adventures to be had.
Maybe that's why I'm a writer. Being a writer gives me a chance to explore and learn and stretch my imagination. Although writing is a tough job, there is also an undercurrent of excitement when a new story is begun - or one is finished. There is a sense of adventure as we take our characters on their journeys. There is wonder when it all works out in the end. Take a minute to remember what it is to be a child and bring that sense to your writing.
Today's thought: "You never fail until you stop trying." - Florence Griffith Joyner
Today's teaser: Your character is a straight-laced good girl - but now she has to do something out of character - strip or commit a crime or hurt someone. What does she have to do and why? How does she react?
Watching him open his presents (after his nap) brought back the memories of when my own children were small - their delight in the toys and games they received. My grandson's delight was no less intense. He ripped into the paper (with some help from Mommy and Daddy), and beheld what lay within. The bright smile on his face, his giggles and excitement brought smiles to everyone's faces.
Ah to be a child again.
But no, I like being an adult. Making my own choices. Doing what I want when I want. But we should all have a bit of the childlike delight also. That excitement that comes with each new day - new things to explore and learn; new adventures to be had.
Maybe that's why I'm a writer. Being a writer gives me a chance to explore and learn and stretch my imagination. Although writing is a tough job, there is also an undercurrent of excitement when a new story is begun - or one is finished. There is a sense of adventure as we take our characters on their journeys. There is wonder when it all works out in the end. Take a minute to remember what it is to be a child and bring that sense to your writing.
Today's thought: "You never fail until you stop trying." - Florence Griffith Joyner
Today's teaser: Your character is a straight-laced good girl - but now she has to do something out of character - strip or commit a crime or hurt someone. What does she have to do and why? How does she react?
Thursday, November 23, 2006
Happy Thanksgiving
No grammar lessons today.
No insights into the writing life.
No tips.
No teasers.
Just a heartfelt wish that you and yours have a safe and happy Thanksgiving.
Thought for today:
Thanksgiving
For each new morning with its light,
For rest and shelter of the night,
For health and food,
For love and friends,
For everything
Thy goodness sends.
Ralph Waldo Emerson
No insights into the writing life.
No tips.
No teasers.
Just a heartfelt wish that you and yours have a safe and happy Thanksgiving.
Thought for today:
Thanksgiving
For each new morning with its light,
For rest and shelter of the night,
For health and food,
For love and friends,
For everything
Thy goodness sends.
Ralph Waldo Emerson
Wednesday, November 22, 2006
Pet Peeve - Bring/Take
I just finished reading another book where the author messed up the use of bring and take. And I heard the same problem on two tv shows last night. This is a pet peeve of mine.
Most people use the words interchangeably. That is wrong since they are not the same word! They do not have the same meaning. They should not be used in place of one another.
(Pant pant pant) Okay, rant over. Now the lesson.
Bring is a verb that means to come to a place with something; to cause someone or something to come to a place. (It has a lot more meanings, but this is the one I'm dealing with here.) One way of looking at it is the thing you are going to get is away from you and you are going to get it and carry it (or cause it to be moved) with you. Example: I'll bring baked beans to the party. (You don't have them yet, but will get them and deliver them. You're not there yet.) Think of this as moving something from there to here.
Take means lay hold of something or remove someone or something from a particular place; to carry with you or accompany to a specified place. You already have the thing with you and you are going to keep possession while you travel to where you are are going. Example: I'm going to take the beans to the party. (You have the beans in your possession and are going go to the party with them already in hand.) Think of it as moving something from here to there.
Clear as mud? Yes, the two are very close in meaning. But there is a subtle difference. Maybe I'm the only one who cares about this difference. In the grand scope of things, it is a little annoyance that has no importance whatsoever. Except to someone who cares about words and their use.
And as writers, we should care.
Today's thought: "You must have long range goals to keep you from being frustrated by short range failures." - Charles C. Noble
Today's teaser: Use the following in a short paragraph: school bell, blush, barbed wire, heater
Most people use the words interchangeably. That is wrong since they are not the same word! They do not have the same meaning. They should not be used in place of one another.
(Pant pant pant) Okay, rant over. Now the lesson.
Bring is a verb that means to come to a place with something; to cause someone or something to come to a place. (It has a lot more meanings, but this is the one I'm dealing with here.) One way of looking at it is the thing you are going to get is away from you and you are going to get it and carry it (or cause it to be moved) with you. Example: I'll bring baked beans to the party. (You don't have them yet, but will get them and deliver them. You're not there yet.) Think of this as moving something from there to here.
Take means lay hold of something or remove someone or something from a particular place; to carry with you or accompany to a specified place. You already have the thing with you and you are going to keep possession while you travel to where you are are going. Example: I'm going to take the beans to the party. (You have the beans in your possession and are going go to the party with them already in hand.) Think of it as moving something from here to there.
Clear as mud? Yes, the two are very close in meaning. But there is a subtle difference. Maybe I'm the only one who cares about this difference. In the grand scope of things, it is a little annoyance that has no importance whatsoever. Except to someone who cares about words and their use.
And as writers, we should care.
Today's thought: "You must have long range goals to keep you from being frustrated by short range failures." - Charles C. Noble
Today's teaser: Use the following in a short paragraph: school bell, blush, barbed wire, heater
Tuesday, November 21, 2006
Breaking the Rules
I read Nat's comments from earlier this week and have to say I agree with her completely. There are times when you have to use a was/-ing construction in your writing. Otherwise, the meaning isn't clear.
Wait a minute, you say. Isn't that what you told us not to do? Yes. And no. I told you that sometimes the use is necessary, but to watch out for it in case it causes too much passivity.
The thing with grammar is, you should know the rules so you know when to break them. To paraphrase a line from the movie Pirates of the Caribbean: "They're more like guidelines."
There are certain rules in grammar that should be as closely adhered to as possible. These mostly involve punctuation such as where to put apostrophes, quotes, and periods over question marks. The rest of grammar is pretty much a gray area. There are guidelines - and multiple books filled with how to follow those guidelines - but when we are writing, it sometimes becomes necessary to bend, break or even shatter those guidelines in order to get our meaning or the tone of the story across to the reader. If following the rules gives you a rough passage, then break the rules.
I spoke before about a writer I know who refuses to use the word "was" in any of her writing. When I read her stuff, I am often pulled out of the story as the sentences are stilted or strangely written in order to work around not using this word. It makes no sense to me. She tells a good story, but by stubbornly refusing to use this one little word, she loses the reader as they struggle to make sense of what's written. Take a look at any writer - especially best sellers. "Was" is in there. You may not see it - which is a good thing - but it's there. It's not seen because it makes the words flow better.
So learn the rules of grammar, spelling, punctuation. These are the basis for any and all writing. Once you know them, you can bend them because you'll know the reason why. You'll know that the flow of the writing is as important as the story itself. We are writers. We want to tell a good story. And the way to do that is by using the right tools.
Today's thought: "Great works are performed not by strength but by perseverance." - Samuel Johnson
Today's teaser: Think of a time when you had an emotional encounter with another person - whether through good emotions or bad. Remember those feelings and write them down. Now put them into a scene with your character.
Wait a minute, you say. Isn't that what you told us not to do? Yes. And no. I told you that sometimes the use is necessary, but to watch out for it in case it causes too much passivity.
The thing with grammar is, you should know the rules so you know when to break them. To paraphrase a line from the movie Pirates of the Caribbean: "They're more like guidelines."
There are certain rules in grammar that should be as closely adhered to as possible. These mostly involve punctuation such as where to put apostrophes, quotes, and periods over question marks. The rest of grammar is pretty much a gray area. There are guidelines - and multiple books filled with how to follow those guidelines - but when we are writing, it sometimes becomes necessary to bend, break or even shatter those guidelines in order to get our meaning or the tone of the story across to the reader. If following the rules gives you a rough passage, then break the rules.
I spoke before about a writer I know who refuses to use the word "was" in any of her writing. When I read her stuff, I am often pulled out of the story as the sentences are stilted or strangely written in order to work around not using this word. It makes no sense to me. She tells a good story, but by stubbornly refusing to use this one little word, she loses the reader as they struggle to make sense of what's written. Take a look at any writer - especially best sellers. "Was" is in there. You may not see it - which is a good thing - but it's there. It's not seen because it makes the words flow better.
So learn the rules of grammar, spelling, punctuation. These are the basis for any and all writing. Once you know them, you can bend them because you'll know the reason why. You'll know that the flow of the writing is as important as the story itself. We are writers. We want to tell a good story. And the way to do that is by using the right tools.
Today's thought: "Great works are performed not by strength but by perseverance." - Samuel Johnson
Today's teaser: Think of a time when you had an emotional encounter with another person - whether through good emotions or bad. Remember those feelings and write them down. Now put them into a scene with your character.
Monday, November 20, 2006
More Useless Words
I started talking yesterday about getting rid of useless words in your manuscript. Today is also about useless words, but also weak words, especially verbs.
I'll start with 'start' - also begin/began. When writing, your character shouldn't start or begin doing something, they should just do it. For instance: He started climbing the stairs. This should be changed to: He climbed the stairs. Or change: She began speaking. To: She spoke.
Also look for 'just' and 'suddenly'. I heard one agent speak at a a conference and his pet peeve was 'suddenly' - he felt that if anyone used this word, their entire work was weak and he wouldn't look any further. That may be harsh, but take a look at wherever you use this word. Can the sentence be rewritten with stronger verbs? The same way with 'just' - This will just take a minute. - Take out the 'just' and the sentence is basically the same. 'Just' is similar to 'only', and 'merely' - look for these words and try to rewrite a stronger sentence without them.
Finally a word about strong verbs. Take the word 'walk' for example. In the sentence 'He walked toward her.' we have no clue how he is moving. Walk is a vague word. Depending on the scene, use of a stronger, more descriptive verb would add to the overall mood. He can stride, swagger, amble, creep, tiptoe, or even limp. Any one of the words would show the reader immediately how he is moving. Pull out your thesaurus and go to work on weak verbs.
These tips should at least give you a beginning on self-editing.
Today's thought: "Everything comes to him who hustles while he waits." - Thomas Jefferson
Today's teaser: What kind of music do you listen to while you write? Or are you a writer who needs silence to work? Or prefer the chaos of a public forum for inspiration? Where do you do your best writing and under what circumstances?
I'll start with 'start' - also begin/began. When writing, your character shouldn't start or begin doing something, they should just do it. For instance: He started climbing the stairs. This should be changed to: He climbed the stairs. Or change: She began speaking. To: She spoke.
Also look for 'just' and 'suddenly'. I heard one agent speak at a a conference and his pet peeve was 'suddenly' - he felt that if anyone used this word, their entire work was weak and he wouldn't look any further. That may be harsh, but take a look at wherever you use this word. Can the sentence be rewritten with stronger verbs? The same way with 'just' - This will just take a minute. - Take out the 'just' and the sentence is basically the same. 'Just' is similar to 'only', and 'merely' - look for these words and try to rewrite a stronger sentence without them.
Finally a word about strong verbs. Take the word 'walk' for example. In the sentence 'He walked toward her.' we have no clue how he is moving. Walk is a vague word. Depending on the scene, use of a stronger, more descriptive verb would add to the overall mood. He can stride, swagger, amble, creep, tiptoe, or even limp. Any one of the words would show the reader immediately how he is moving. Pull out your thesaurus and go to work on weak verbs.
These tips should at least give you a beginning on self-editing.
Today's thought: "Everything comes to him who hustles while he waits." - Thomas Jefferson
Today's teaser: What kind of music do you listen to while you write? Or are you a writer who needs silence to work? Or prefer the chaos of a public forum for inspiration? Where do you do your best writing and under what circumstances?
Sunday, November 19, 2006
Useless words
I was working on some editing last night and kept running up against the same problems. Words that are just sitting there taking up space and passive words. Many editors - and I am one of them - tell the writers to "show don't tell" but we don't always let the writer in on how to do this. I'm going to try.
Was/Were - Too often when we're writing, we use the "was doing (insert 'ing' verb in place of doing) construct. He was leaving me. She was hurting him. They were going out. I have a crit partner who nixes the use of any use of the word 'was'. I disagree with her. There are times when the use of 'was/were' is necessary. But she's right in one way, the use of 'was' often gives us a passive sentence. When possible, a more active verb should be substituted. For instance:
Passive: She was working on a new plan.
Active: She worked out a new plan.
The first sentence takes us out of the picture. The author is telling us that she is working on a new plan. In the second sentence, we are right there in the action. By changing the was/ing construct to an 'ed' form, we go from passive to active.
Another word to watch out for is 'that'. In most cases, this can be completely eliminated. It is often a useless word just taking up space but not doing anything. Consider: She wished that he would mow the grass. The sentence is just as effective, perhaps even more so if you say: She wished he would mow the grass. Read over any sentence with the word "that" - if the sentence can be read and makes sense without the word, get rid of it.
More tomorrow.
Today's thought: "If you set a goal for yourself and are able to achieve it, you have won your race. Your goal can be to come in first, to improve your performance, or just finish the race - it's up to you." - Dave Scott
Today's tip: Read your story into a tape player, then play it back to yourself. Really listen as you follow along. Where did you change wording? Where does it sound too slow or too fast? Mark these pages, then go back and fix them.
What is your worst editing problem when writing?
Was/Were - Too often when we're writing, we use the "was doing (insert 'ing' verb in place of doing) construct. He was leaving me. She was hurting him. They were going out. I have a crit partner who nixes the use of any use of the word 'was'. I disagree with her. There are times when the use of 'was/were' is necessary. But she's right in one way, the use of 'was' often gives us a passive sentence. When possible, a more active verb should be substituted. For instance:
Passive: She was working on a new plan.
Active: She worked out a new plan.
The first sentence takes us out of the picture. The author is telling us that she is working on a new plan. In the second sentence, we are right there in the action. By changing the was/ing construct to an 'ed' form, we go from passive to active.
Another word to watch out for is 'that'. In most cases, this can be completely eliminated. It is often a useless word just taking up space but not doing anything. Consider: She wished that he would mow the grass. The sentence is just as effective, perhaps even more so if you say: She wished he would mow the grass. Read over any sentence with the word "that" - if the sentence can be read and makes sense without the word, get rid of it.
More tomorrow.
Today's thought: "If you set a goal for yourself and are able to achieve it, you have won your race. Your goal can be to come in first, to improve your performance, or just finish the race - it's up to you." - Dave Scott
Today's tip: Read your story into a tape player, then play it back to yourself. Really listen as you follow along. Where did you change wording? Where does it sound too slow or too fast? Mark these pages, then go back and fix them.
What is your worst editing problem when writing?
Saturday, November 18, 2006
Time Passages
Today is my mom's 80th birthday. More has happened in her lifespan than in all past history. In addition to multiple wars, there have been immeasurable advances in science and technology. She lived during WWII, Korean War (Okay, I know, it was a *conflict* and not officially a war. I'm sorry, it was a WAR!), VietNam, Cold, Gulf, Middle East... so many "conflicts" and "offensives" and "wars."
But during her lifetime, we also managed to invent computers that went from being the size of a small house to ones that fit in our pockets and they allow us to communicate globally at any time of the day or night.
There have also been advances in medical technology - wonders that allow premature infants to survive when they wouldn't have. Advances that enable us to walk, talk, live our lives. (Note - I will NOT go into the politics of some of this - that is for others to debate. I'm here only to list the inventions, not the ethics on whether or not they should be used.). There are medications that allow very sick people to continue to live full and productive lives. And new surgeries and inventions that bring sight to the sightless, hearing to the deaf, and speech to the mute.
Our cars have gotten faster, smarter, safer - now if the people behind the steering wheels would just keep up.
We now have telescopes that allow us to see distant galaxies and learn more about our neighbors in space. We have even traveled to our closest neighbor and maybe will again someday. Can further exploration or even colonization be far behind?
Yes, I know there is much wrong in this world. The ozone hole continues to grow. The rain forests continue to shrink. Populations grow as our natural resources shrink. Technology continues to bound forward leaving our collective conscience in the past.
As writers, we have the ability to shape the thoughts of others. Even if all we write is pulp fiction, our thoughts and ideas can be the spark that leads someone to think 'what if'...
Is it our duty to be the conscience of the world? How can it not be. The words of others throughout history have shaped events and influenced millions.
All it takes is one person to make a difference.
In six days, my grandson will turn three. What will happen in his lifetime?
Happy Birthday, Mom. Happy Birthday, Dante.
Today's thought: "Our earth is degenerate in these latter days; there are signs that the world is speedily coming to an end; bribery and corruption are common; children no longer obey their parents; every man wants to write a book; indeed, the end of the world is approaching." - an Assyrian inscription, 1500 BC
Today's teaser: Take a look at everything that has happened in *your* lifetime and make a list. Now pick one thing from that list and tell us why it's a good thing or a bad thing. Be persuasive. No, I will not debate with you - but make me think. Build a good case. Be that one person who may change the world.
But during her lifetime, we also managed to invent computers that went from being the size of a small house to ones that fit in our pockets and they allow us to communicate globally at any time of the day or night.
There have also been advances in medical technology - wonders that allow premature infants to survive when they wouldn't have. Advances that enable us to walk, talk, live our lives. (Note - I will NOT go into the politics of some of this - that is for others to debate. I'm here only to list the inventions, not the ethics on whether or not they should be used.). There are medications that allow very sick people to continue to live full and productive lives. And new surgeries and inventions that bring sight to the sightless, hearing to the deaf, and speech to the mute.
Our cars have gotten faster, smarter, safer - now if the people behind the steering wheels would just keep up.
We now have telescopes that allow us to see distant galaxies and learn more about our neighbors in space. We have even traveled to our closest neighbor and maybe will again someday. Can further exploration or even colonization be far behind?
Yes, I know there is much wrong in this world. The ozone hole continues to grow. The rain forests continue to shrink. Populations grow as our natural resources shrink. Technology continues to bound forward leaving our collective conscience in the past.
As writers, we have the ability to shape the thoughts of others. Even if all we write is pulp fiction, our thoughts and ideas can be the spark that leads someone to think 'what if'...
Is it our duty to be the conscience of the world? How can it not be. The words of others throughout history have shaped events and influenced millions.
All it takes is one person to make a difference.
In six days, my grandson will turn three. What will happen in his lifetime?
Happy Birthday, Mom. Happy Birthday, Dante.
Today's thought: "Our earth is degenerate in these latter days; there are signs that the world is speedily coming to an end; bribery and corruption are common; children no longer obey their parents; every man wants to write a book; indeed, the end of the world is approaching." - an Assyrian inscription, 1500 BC
Today's teaser: Take a look at everything that has happened in *your* lifetime and make a list. Now pick one thing from that list and tell us why it's a good thing or a bad thing. Be persuasive. No, I will not debate with you - but make me think. Build a good case. Be that one person who may change the world.
Friday, November 17, 2006
And Now We Wait
I finished the final line edits for my book "Akashan'te" yesterday. I have the cover art, the ISBN number, and the publication date. Now all that's left is the waiting. Three months is not a long time, but it seems like forever.
So what do I do in the meantime? I keep writing. And critiquing and editing. And I work fervently on the marketing of my books.
Wait, marketing? Before the books are even out? Yes. Or so I've been told by those who have been there before me. The time to start marketing your book is actually before it's sold. You have to be ready to sell it to agents and editors before you can sell it to the public. Marketing starts with the query letter. Once you've sold, then you get into the stuff like getting reviews, magazine ads, talks to promote yourself and your work, on-line chats, anything that will get your name - and your work - out there. This aspect of the business actually takes more time than the writing does.
What's unfortunate is that many writers are not good at marketing. We tend to be introverts who are uncomfortable speaking in front of groups, promoting ourselves, putting ourselves out there. But if we want to sell our work, these are things we have to do. I am not looking forward to this part of the writing life, but I will do what I can because I believe in my work and I think others will like it too. So.... I will market.
Today's thought: "All dreams can come true - if we have the courage to pursue them." - Walt Disney
Today's teaser: If you're a reader, what makes you pick up a book and buy it or read it? If you're an author, what do you do to market your stuff?
So what do I do in the meantime? I keep writing. And critiquing and editing. And I work fervently on the marketing of my books.
Wait, marketing? Before the books are even out? Yes. Or so I've been told by those who have been there before me. The time to start marketing your book is actually before it's sold. You have to be ready to sell it to agents and editors before you can sell it to the public. Marketing starts with the query letter. Once you've sold, then you get into the stuff like getting reviews, magazine ads, talks to promote yourself and your work, on-line chats, anything that will get your name - and your work - out there. This aspect of the business actually takes more time than the writing does.
What's unfortunate is that many writers are not good at marketing. We tend to be introverts who are uncomfortable speaking in front of groups, promoting ourselves, putting ourselves out there. But if we want to sell our work, these are things we have to do. I am not looking forward to this part of the writing life, but I will do what I can because I believe in my work and I think others will like it too. So.... I will market.
Today's thought: "All dreams can come true - if we have the courage to pursue them." - Walt Disney
Today's teaser: If you're a reader, what makes you pick up a book and buy it or read it? If you're an author, what do you do to market your stuff?
Thursday, November 16, 2006
Humor
I just looked at my son's latest Zoid cartoon. (For those of you not in the know, my son produces a weekly strip called Zoidland. It can be found at http://www.zoidland.com or you can go to my favorite links and click from there.)
Anyway, I admire his sense of humor - wry as it is. He got that from his father. I read through the various strips and laugh - or groan - but am always entertained by his insights. Sometimes, they worry me - what is this boy thinking???? But always come away with a smile.
Humor is a difficult subject for many people. I love reading humorous books, but couldn't write one to save my life. That indefinable something - that spark of wit - is just not there for me. Oh, I can get a zinger in once in a while, but most of the time, they come to me way after the occasion is over and done with. One of those "Darn, I should have said..." moments.
We all need humor in our lives and thank goodness there are writers out there who can produce such fare. If you get a chance, check out Zoidland and scroll through some of the back strips. I know there's something in there that will tickle you. And a good chuckle is a great way to start the day.
Today's thought: "It's your attitude not your aptitude that determines your altitude." - Zig Ziglar
Today's teaser: For a lark, you go to a fortune teller. At first, she smiles broadly, then shakes he head and pulls back from you. What is your reading?
Anyway, I admire his sense of humor - wry as it is. He got that from his father. I read through the various strips and laugh - or groan - but am always entertained by his insights. Sometimes, they worry me - what is this boy thinking???? But always come away with a smile.
Humor is a difficult subject for many people. I love reading humorous books, but couldn't write one to save my life. That indefinable something - that spark of wit - is just not there for me. Oh, I can get a zinger in once in a while, but most of the time, they come to me way after the occasion is over and done with. One of those "Darn, I should have said..." moments.
We all need humor in our lives and thank goodness there are writers out there who can produce such fare. If you get a chance, check out Zoidland and scroll through some of the back strips. I know there's something in there that will tickle you. And a good chuckle is a great way to start the day.
Today's thought: "It's your attitude not your aptitude that determines your altitude." - Zig Ziglar
Today's teaser: For a lark, you go to a fortune teller. At first, she smiles broadly, then shakes he head and pulls back from you. What is your reading?
Wednesday, November 15, 2006
Time
Time has a way of getting away from us. Usually, the more we need, the less we have. Today is a perfect example of that for me.
I rose early, as I usually do, fed the cat, got my own breakfast and sat down at the computer to take care of e-mail, blogging, etc. I need to have this all done by 9 since I babysit my grandson on Wednesday mornings. Then a little message popped up that said updates were ready to be downloaded and installed. Now normally, this is something that takes a few minutes and it's done.
Not today. It took nearly an hour. An hour that I did not have to spend on this. And now I'm not going to get done what I needed to - with the exception of my blog - until this afternoon. Which puts off everything else I needed to do this afternoon.
And yet, I would not give up a minute spent with my grandson. Okay, we don't spend every minute one-on-one. He often plays quietly by himself allowing me time to do other things, like study marketing books, catch up on writer magazines, and stuff like that. What I don't do is stuff that takes power concentration like line editing or writing. That way, I'm immediately available if the block tower falls one too many times or Humpty Dumpty just needs to be read one more time.
Time. It's all about priorities.
Today's Thought: "The difference between a successful person and others is not a lack of strength, not a lack of knowledge, but rather a lack of will." - Vince Lombardi
Today's Teaser: You've been given the ability to go back in time to change one thing in your life. Would you? Why or why not?
I rose early, as I usually do, fed the cat, got my own breakfast and sat down at the computer to take care of e-mail, blogging, etc. I need to have this all done by 9 since I babysit my grandson on Wednesday mornings. Then a little message popped up that said updates were ready to be downloaded and installed. Now normally, this is something that takes a few minutes and it's done.
Not today. It took nearly an hour. An hour that I did not have to spend on this. And now I'm not going to get done what I needed to - with the exception of my blog - until this afternoon. Which puts off everything else I needed to do this afternoon.
And yet, I would not give up a minute spent with my grandson. Okay, we don't spend every minute one-on-one. He often plays quietly by himself allowing me time to do other things, like study marketing books, catch up on writer magazines, and stuff like that. What I don't do is stuff that takes power concentration like line editing or writing. That way, I'm immediately available if the block tower falls one too many times or Humpty Dumpty just needs to be read one more time.
Time. It's all about priorities.
Today's Thought: "The difference between a successful person and others is not a lack of strength, not a lack of knowledge, but rather a lack of will." - Vince Lombardi
Today's Teaser: You've been given the ability to go back in time to change one thing in your life. Would you? Why or why not?
Tuesday, November 14, 2006
Rejections
I recently sent out six queries to agents for a fantasy book I've written. Yesterday, I got back two rejections.
Now, this is nothing new. I'm known as the Queen of Rejections in my writer's group. To me - and many of them - it just means I'm working hard at my craft, finishing projects and sending them out. I am the Queen of Rejections because I am also the Queen of Submissions.
That doesn't make me feel any better. A rejection is still a rejection. According to my critique partners and the judges from the contests this manuscript has won, this is a good story. Everyone who's read it has liked it - except for the agents. I actually had one sub-agent do a complete line edit of the work for me because she liked it so much, but when she bumped it up to her bosses, they didn't bite. That was the one that really hurt.
To say I'm a bit bummed would be an accurate statement. But I also know this isn't the end of the road. I'll keep working, keep writing, and keep submitting because that is what we writers do. We cannot NOT write. And part of writing is submitting. And part of submitting is, unfortunately, getting rejected.
So I will go on. I will keep trying. And I will probably retain my crown for a long time to come.
Today's thought: "I will study and get ready and some day my chance will come." - Abraham Lincoln
Today's teaser: Loving books is what makes readers become writers. What are some of your favorite books? Who are some of your favorite authors? Why? What makes these books or authors special for you?
Now, this is nothing new. I'm known as the Queen of Rejections in my writer's group. To me - and many of them - it just means I'm working hard at my craft, finishing projects and sending them out. I am the Queen of Rejections because I am also the Queen of Submissions.
That doesn't make me feel any better. A rejection is still a rejection. According to my critique partners and the judges from the contests this manuscript has won, this is a good story. Everyone who's read it has liked it - except for the agents. I actually had one sub-agent do a complete line edit of the work for me because she liked it so much, but when she bumped it up to her bosses, they didn't bite. That was the one that really hurt.
To say I'm a bit bummed would be an accurate statement. But I also know this isn't the end of the road. I'll keep working, keep writing, and keep submitting because that is what we writers do. We cannot NOT write. And part of writing is submitting. And part of submitting is, unfortunately, getting rejected.
So I will go on. I will keep trying. And I will probably retain my crown for a long time to come.
Today's thought: "I will study and get ready and some day my chance will come." - Abraham Lincoln
Today's teaser: Loving books is what makes readers become writers. What are some of your favorite books? Who are some of your favorite authors? Why? What makes these books or authors special for you?
Monday, November 13, 2006
Sadie Hawkin's Day
The 13th of November is Sadie Hawkins Day. Here is a holiday that originated from a cartoon. It all began in Al Capp's Lil Abner cartoon in the 1930's. In the cartoon series, the mayor of Dogpatch was desperate to marry off his ugly daughter, Sadie, so he came up with an idea. On this day, a race would be held and all the single men were given a short head start. If a woman caught her man, he had to marry her.
Way back in the dark ages, my high school used to celebrate Sadie Hawkin's Day. It was the one time of the year we were allowed to dress up in clothes that didn't fit the dress code (meaning girls could actually wear slacks or even, dare I say it?, skorts (called culottes back then). Think "Duke's of Hazzard, but with much longer shorts - our principal wasn't "that" enlightened). That evening, there would be a dance and the girls had to ask the boys on the date. That was unheard of. There was often much giggling and speculation over who to ask (that hasn't changed), but at that time, a girl asking a boy out was ever so outrageous. But it was a day to let down our hair and have fun - and we usually did.
Thought for the day: "it is a rough road that leads to the heights of greatness." - Seneca
Today's teaser: Create a he/she holiday that will bring two people together who would not otherwise be together. It can be silly or serious, but no "Valentine's Day" clones please.
Way back in the dark ages, my high school used to celebrate Sadie Hawkin's Day. It was the one time of the year we were allowed to dress up in clothes that didn't fit the dress code (meaning girls could actually wear slacks or even, dare I say it?, skorts (called culottes back then). Think "Duke's of Hazzard, but with much longer shorts - our principal wasn't "that" enlightened). That evening, there would be a dance and the girls had to ask the boys on the date. That was unheard of. There was often much giggling and speculation over who to ask (that hasn't changed), but at that time, a girl asking a boy out was ever so outrageous. But it was a day to let down our hair and have fun - and we usually did.
Thought for the day: "it is a rough road that leads to the heights of greatness." - Seneca
Today's teaser: Create a he/she holiday that will bring two people together who would not otherwise be together. It can be silly or serious, but no "Valentine's Day" clones please.
Sunday, November 12, 2006
Barefootin'
I went for a walk with my hubby yesterday. Although it's November, the sun was shining, the air was warm, the sky a deep rich blue like you only get this time of year. We strolled the streets of our little town, kicking through leaves and enjoying the day like the many other residents we saw.
Unfortunately, I wore the wrong pair of shoes and about half-way through our two-mile sojourn, I felt a blister developing on my heel. By that time, we were in the park, watching the ducks dive for tidbits in the sun-speckled stream and enjoying sounds of nature. Knowing that another mile would have me wincing in pain, if not nursing a bloody heel, I sat down and took off my shoes and socks and did the rest of our trip in my bare feet.
The different textures of pavement, road and grass are interesting. Black macadam roads are warm, but very rough while a macadam driveway or parking lot tends to be just as warm, but smoother. On the cool side are sidewalks with varying textures. Some are very smooth to the touch, while others have been combed to give them a rougher surface and still others, mostly old ones that have cracked and worn through time, are worse than street surfaces. At times, I wandered off the walkways onto the grass - which was very cool to the touch. But grassy areas can be dangerous. One has to watch out for thistles and other nasty plant life as well as things buried in the grass. Fortunately, I was able to make the trip unscathed.
When we got home, I washed my tootsies well and slathered them with lotion - and put those sneakers in the back of my closet, along with other pairs that didn't work out. (I have long narrow feet that are hard to fit). Several have been worn only a time or two and will eventually be donated to a clothing drive. I never wear shoes in the house - barefootin' all summer and socks or slippers in the winter to keep warm, but never shoes. I hate shoes. I dread shoe-shopping. They are an anathema to my life.
But barefootin' is an experience everyone should try once in a while. We are so accustomed to feeling things with our hands, to do it with our feet is an interesting contrast. Take as short walk in your bare feet when you can and notice the different textures, temperatures, softness or hardness of the surface you're walking on. Note them down if you can and use these sensations in a a scene sometime. After all, life is but fodder for our writing.
Today's thought: "I don't see writing as a communication of something already discovered, as 'truths' already known. Rather, I see writing as a job of experiment. It's like any discovery job; you don't know what's going to happen until you try it." - William Stafford
Today's teaser: Do something you don't normally do, like walking barefoot, today. Experiment. Eat something you've never tried before; try something you've never tried before. Or something you haven't done in a long time. Then write a paragraph or two about the experience. Be specific, don't just say "I didn't like the eel sushi." Explain why you didn't like it. Oh, and please, don't hurt yourself. This is a journey of discovery, not danger.
Unfortunately, I wore the wrong pair of shoes and about half-way through our two-mile sojourn, I felt a blister developing on my heel. By that time, we were in the park, watching the ducks dive for tidbits in the sun-speckled stream and enjoying sounds of nature. Knowing that another mile would have me wincing in pain, if not nursing a bloody heel, I sat down and took off my shoes and socks and did the rest of our trip in my bare feet.
The different textures of pavement, road and grass are interesting. Black macadam roads are warm, but very rough while a macadam driveway or parking lot tends to be just as warm, but smoother. On the cool side are sidewalks with varying textures. Some are very smooth to the touch, while others have been combed to give them a rougher surface and still others, mostly old ones that have cracked and worn through time, are worse than street surfaces. At times, I wandered off the walkways onto the grass - which was very cool to the touch. But grassy areas can be dangerous. One has to watch out for thistles and other nasty plant life as well as things buried in the grass. Fortunately, I was able to make the trip unscathed.
When we got home, I washed my tootsies well and slathered them with lotion - and put those sneakers in the back of my closet, along with other pairs that didn't work out. (I have long narrow feet that are hard to fit). Several have been worn only a time or two and will eventually be donated to a clothing drive. I never wear shoes in the house - barefootin' all summer and socks or slippers in the winter to keep warm, but never shoes. I hate shoes. I dread shoe-shopping. They are an anathema to my life.
But barefootin' is an experience everyone should try once in a while. We are so accustomed to feeling things with our hands, to do it with our feet is an interesting contrast. Take as short walk in your bare feet when you can and notice the different textures, temperatures, softness or hardness of the surface you're walking on. Note them down if you can and use these sensations in a a scene sometime. After all, life is but fodder for our writing.
Today's thought: "I don't see writing as a communication of something already discovered, as 'truths' already known. Rather, I see writing as a job of experiment. It's like any discovery job; you don't know what's going to happen until you try it." - William Stafford
Today's teaser: Do something you don't normally do, like walking barefoot, today. Experiment. Eat something you've never tried before; try something you've never tried before. Or something you haven't done in a long time. Then write a paragraph or two about the experience. Be specific, don't just say "I didn't like the eel sushi." Explain why you didn't like it. Oh, and please, don't hurt yourself. This is a journey of discovery, not danger.
Saturday, November 11, 2006
Veteran's Day
Today is Veteran's Day, once called Armistice Day and is celebrated internationally. It was established on the first anniversary of the signing of the treaties that ended World War I as major hostilities ended on the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month (1918). At that time, people believed there would never be another war as horrible as that one.
How wrong they were.
I will not go into politics here. What I will say is, if you know a veteran, please honor him or her, not just on this day, but on every day. My father, husband and brothers all served in the military. My dad used to tell us stories of his escapades in WWII, Korea, the Philippines, and Japan. He was a farm boy from the hill country of Pennsylvania who got to see the world with the Army. It was not always pretty, but it was an experience. Below is a poem my father wrote in 1988 about WWI veterans, but it could just as well be about any veteran. It is from his book "Memories Along the Tuscarora" published in 1991.
The Old Veteran
Seventy years ago he was young and proud.
Now he lives in the home, just one of the crowd.
Does anyone remember what happened this day?
Does anyone care as they go their way?
Yes, he remembers the uniform he wore
As he fought in a battle on a distant shore.
His country's flag, he remembers with pride.
He remembers the men who fought by his side.
Ah, it is all past now, and many forgot
That he was a hero, believe it or not.
He carried that flag in Balleau Wood
And on November the eleventh, with it he stood.
One of the proud victors of that war.
He remembers this and so much more.
He remembers his friends who died over there.
No wonder he weeps for someone to care.
So give him a smile as you pass him by.
If you have the time, hold his hand and try
Try to imagine him when he was there.
Try at least to show that you really care.
True, other wars have been fought since then
And other heroes there have been,
But that does not lessen his duty there
Of keeping America so free and fair.
Thank you, Daddy. I miss you.
To all the veterans out there, my thanks for keeping my world a little safer.
Today's teaser: Write a poem or short scene about enemies coming together in peace. Note, not all 'wars' are between countries.
How wrong they were.
I will not go into politics here. What I will say is, if you know a veteran, please honor him or her, not just on this day, but on every day. My father, husband and brothers all served in the military. My dad used to tell us stories of his escapades in WWII, Korea, the Philippines, and Japan. He was a farm boy from the hill country of Pennsylvania who got to see the world with the Army. It was not always pretty, but it was an experience. Below is a poem my father wrote in 1988 about WWI veterans, but it could just as well be about any veteran. It is from his book "Memories Along the Tuscarora" published in 1991.
The Old Veteran
Seventy years ago he was young and proud.
Now he lives in the home, just one of the crowd.
Does anyone remember what happened this day?
Does anyone care as they go their way?
Yes, he remembers the uniform he wore
As he fought in a battle on a distant shore.
His country's flag, he remembers with pride.
He remembers the men who fought by his side.
Ah, it is all past now, and many forgot
That he was a hero, believe it or not.
He carried that flag in Balleau Wood
And on November the eleventh, with it he stood.
One of the proud victors of that war.
He remembers this and so much more.
He remembers his friends who died over there.
No wonder he weeps for someone to care.
So give him a smile as you pass him by.
If you have the time, hold his hand and try
Try to imagine him when he was there.
Try at least to show that you really care.
True, other wars have been fought since then
And other heroes there have been,
But that does not lessen his duty there
Of keeping America so free and fair.
Thank you, Daddy. I miss you.
To all the veterans out there, my thanks for keeping my world a little safer.
Today's teaser: Write a poem or short scene about enemies coming together in peace. Note, not all 'wars' are between countries.
Friday, November 10, 2006
Getting Things Done
Yesterday was a huge improvement over the day before. It's not that I got much more done, but the overall mood was better. I spent the morning going over things with my hubby (he works second shift, Sat-Tue so yesterday and today are our weekend), then we took a three mile walk around town. The weather was gorgeous. In the afternoon, we ran errands, then after dinner, I got down to work. Did some editing and managed to add a couple more pages to my WIP. All-in-all, a good day.
Today, I'm going to go to the torture chamber (gym) for the first time in decades and see what they can do for me. I am so NOT looking forward to this, but I know I have to do this.
As writers, we tend to plunk ourselves down in the nearest chair and spend the next several hours there. Many of us have day jobs where our butt's are glued to chairs all day. The only time we move is to go to the break room to get more caffeine or candy or other equally unhealthy fare. Have you ever noticed at a writer's convention how many of us are overweight? Unfortunately, my doctor is taking me to task. Yes, I am a bit heavy - but I do not tip the scales at obese any more. My problem is osteoporosis. So I need to do hard exercises. Sigh.
Even if you're not overweight or out of shape, take five minutes right now to stand up and stretch, especially your arms and hands. Shrug your shoulders. And check out this website for some good stretches: http://www.lib.msu.edu/ergomsu/stretch.htm
The bottom line is, take care of yourself. Please.
Today's thought: "Learning to write well takes time and much effort, but it can be done." - Margaret Mead
Today's teaser: Writer's have to paint pictures with words. It is how we create realistic settings for our worlds. Take look at a picture - on a wall, in a magazine, etc. and the more complicated, the better. Study it for one minute. Turn away from the picture and write a paragraph describing the picture in detail. Be as specific as possible. When done, compare what you've written to the picture. Could someone read your paragraph and "see" the same picture you did?
Today, I'm going to go to the torture chamber (gym) for the first time in decades and see what they can do for me. I am so NOT looking forward to this, but I know I have to do this.
As writers, we tend to plunk ourselves down in the nearest chair and spend the next several hours there. Many of us have day jobs where our butt's are glued to chairs all day. The only time we move is to go to the break room to get more caffeine or candy or other equally unhealthy fare. Have you ever noticed at a writer's convention how many of us are overweight? Unfortunately, my doctor is taking me to task. Yes, I am a bit heavy - but I do not tip the scales at obese any more. My problem is osteoporosis. So I need to do hard exercises. Sigh.
Even if you're not overweight or out of shape, take five minutes right now to stand up and stretch, especially your arms and hands. Shrug your shoulders. And check out this website for some good stretches: http://www.lib.msu.edu/ergomsu/stretch.htm
The bottom line is, take care of yourself. Please.
Today's thought: "Learning to write well takes time and much effort, but it can be done." - Margaret Mead
Today's teaser: Writer's have to paint pictures with words. It is how we create realistic settings for our worlds. Take look at a picture - on a wall, in a magazine, etc. and the more complicated, the better. Study it for one minute. Turn away from the picture and write a paragraph describing the picture in detail. Be as specific as possible. When done, compare what you've written to the picture. Could someone read your paragraph and "see" the same picture you did?
Thursday, November 09, 2006
Good Days, Bad Days
Yesterday was one of those good day/bad day type of days. On the good side, I babysit my grandson on Wednesday mornings. Just listening to him chatter, watching him play, seeing the awe in his face when he learns something new - there is such wonder in a child and it is awesome to behold.
He's also so full of energy that by the time he leaves, I'm ready for a nap myself! :)
On the second good side, I finished a critique of a good friend's book. I sat there reading - in awe of her ability. I don't know why a big publisher hasn't picked her up yet. The book made me laugh and cry. Her romantic e-books do quite well. Check out her stuff at http://www.nataliedamschroder.com. While you're at it, check out my other writing friends. I've got links to most of them here.
On the bad side, I sat down to write last night and nothing came. I ended up doing an edit of what I've done already - which was a good thing since it jogged my brain into actually thinking. I did manage to do two pages, but that is far short of my daily goal. Guess I'll just have to make up for it today.
Today's thought: "While plot and theme and pacing and every other element in fiction is important, the really key element in fiction is characters. Because if you've got characters that come alive, they tell your story." - Jean Auel
Today's teaser: Go for a walk and look at the world as a child would. Listen to the sounds around you. Look at the colors of nature (or the city). When you get back home, immediately write down your impressions. How did you feel during and after this walk?
He's also so full of energy that by the time he leaves, I'm ready for a nap myself! :)
On the second good side, I finished a critique of a good friend's book. I sat there reading - in awe of her ability. I don't know why a big publisher hasn't picked her up yet. The book made me laugh and cry. Her romantic e-books do quite well. Check out her stuff at http://www.nataliedamschroder.com. While you're at it, check out my other writing friends. I've got links to most of them here.
On the bad side, I sat down to write last night and nothing came. I ended up doing an edit of what I've done already - which was a good thing since it jogged my brain into actually thinking. I did manage to do two pages, but that is far short of my daily goal. Guess I'll just have to make up for it today.
Today's thought: "While plot and theme and pacing and every other element in fiction is important, the really key element in fiction is characters. Because if you've got characters that come alive, they tell your story." - Jean Auel
Today's teaser: Go for a walk and look at the world as a child would. Listen to the sounds around you. Look at the colors of nature (or the city). When you get back home, immediately write down your impressions. How did you feel during and after this walk?
Wednesday, November 08, 2006
Dracula and Scarlett
Today is the birthday of Bram Stoker, author of the original vampire book, Dracula. It is also the birthday of Margaret Mitchell, creater of Scarlett O'Hara and Gone With the Wind. Both books contain memorable characters brought to life on the big screen. I have to wonder, though, if Mitchell's book would have been as enduring without the epic movie.
Stoker's vampire gave rise to a whole slew of vampire books which led to movies and television. Vampire books continue to be one of the top sellers in paranormal genre's, mostly thanks to Anne Rice's Lestat and her Vampire Chronicles, but the TV shows Buffy, the Vampire Slayer and spin off, Angel, didn't hurt any. What is it that draws people to these stories? Is it tempting fate? Seeking that which is forbidden? Or a desire to be something more than we are?
I don't expect answers - I'm not a psychologist. But I do find it interesting that these stories and others like them continue to be best sellers.
Then we have Scarlett. There was nothing paranormal about her. She was greedy, self-absorbed, and sensual, but she also had a backbone of steel. She knew what she wanted and went after it with all her being, consequences be da....ed. She went from rich to poor to rich again, and shone through it all. When things were at their worst, she rolled up her sleeves and got to work. An interesting character. I don't know that I'd ever want her for a friend, but one thing's certain, you'd never be bored with her around.
Today's thought: "Writing is a struggle against silence." - Carlos Fuentes
Today's teaser: Who are some memorable characters that stand out for you? What makes them memorable?
Or: Write a scene where Scarlett and Dracula meet. What happens? Who comes out on top?
Stoker's vampire gave rise to a whole slew of vampire books which led to movies and television. Vampire books continue to be one of the top sellers in paranormal genre's, mostly thanks to Anne Rice's Lestat and her Vampire Chronicles, but the TV shows Buffy, the Vampire Slayer and spin off, Angel, didn't hurt any. What is it that draws people to these stories? Is it tempting fate? Seeking that which is forbidden? Or a desire to be something more than we are?
I don't expect answers - I'm not a psychologist. But I do find it interesting that these stories and others like them continue to be best sellers.
Then we have Scarlett. There was nothing paranormal about her. She was greedy, self-absorbed, and sensual, but she also had a backbone of steel. She knew what she wanted and went after it with all her being, consequences be da....ed. She went from rich to poor to rich again, and shone through it all. When things were at their worst, she rolled up her sleeves and got to work. An interesting character. I don't know that I'd ever want her for a friend, but one thing's certain, you'd never be bored with her around.
Today's thought: "Writing is a struggle against silence." - Carlos Fuentes
Today's teaser: Who are some memorable characters that stand out for you? What makes them memorable?
Or: Write a scene where Scarlett and Dracula meet. What happens? Who comes out on top?
Tuesday, November 07, 2006
Revelations
In chatting with some writer friends yesterday, I realized that I am sabotaging myself in my writing. I know I've talked here before about spending a lot of my time working on projects for other people, but when I chart it out (yes, I know I'm obsessive), I am amazed and appalled at how much time is spent on their stuff. Then when you add in all the time spent on e-mail, solitaire (who me?), blogging, etc., it's a wonder I get any writing done at all.
But I have. Okay, not a lot, but some. At the writer's meeting on Saturday, we all set goals for the coming month. I originally set mine at the equivalent of five pages a day, then someone pointed out that the holidays are coming and I've got four family birthdays between now and then and appoinments and other obligations so I cut my goal back to two pages a day, including my blog. Oh, and about that little word "equivalent" - basically it means that I can write nothing one day, but ten or fifteen the next day as long as it all adds up to the equivalent of two pages a day.
I'm not sure that's a good thing. It's not enough of a challenge for me. So I am re-upping my goal. And, yes, I'm keeping that word "equivalent" in there. I seriously doubt that I'll get any writing time done on Thanksgiving or the birthdays. So for the months of November and December (Nov. 4- Jan. 6, 63 days), my goal is to write a minimum of 300 pages.
Wish me luck.
Today's thought: "The price of succces is hard work, dedication to the job at hand, and the determination that whether we win or lose, we have applied the best of of ourselves to the task at hand." - Vince Lombardi
Today's teaser: List ten things that annoy you. Pick two and write about them. Why do they annoy you? What can you do about them?
But I have. Okay, not a lot, but some. At the writer's meeting on Saturday, we all set goals for the coming month. I originally set mine at the equivalent of five pages a day, then someone pointed out that the holidays are coming and I've got four family birthdays between now and then and appoinments and other obligations so I cut my goal back to two pages a day, including my blog. Oh, and about that little word "equivalent" - basically it means that I can write nothing one day, but ten or fifteen the next day as long as it all adds up to the equivalent of two pages a day.
I'm not sure that's a good thing. It's not enough of a challenge for me. So I am re-upping my goal. And, yes, I'm keeping that word "equivalent" in there. I seriously doubt that I'll get any writing time done on Thanksgiving or the birthdays. So for the months of November and December (Nov. 4- Jan. 6, 63 days), my goal is to write a minimum of 300 pages.
Wish me luck.
Today's thought: "The price of succces is hard work, dedication to the job at hand, and the determination that whether we win or lose, we have applied the best of of ourselves to the task at hand." - Vince Lombardi
Today's teaser: List ten things that annoy you. Pick two and write about them. Why do they annoy you? What can you do about them?
Monday, November 06, 2006
Dates
I have a date today with some writing friends of mine. We're going to get together, go out to lunch, and chat about writing - and probably about a lot of other things. I am so looking forward to this special time. I'll tell you all about it tomorrow. :)
To get ready for this time, I spent time yesterday puttering - redding up (and before you gig me for a misspelling, redd is a word and is in the dictionary (at least in mine), mostly used in Pennsylvania Dutch country to mean tidy or make neat.) and other "stuff", but I did manage to write seven pages of new stuff in my WIP.
I know my friends and I are really looking forward to this time. We are writers, and as such, don't get out much. Plus the other four all have young families which makes getting away even harder for them. But times like this are important for writers. It is a time to meet with others who are as crazy as ourselves and know they understand when we talk about our characters as real people or get down and dirty with poisons and weapons and other nasty stuff. They soar the heavens with us, fly to other planets, fight dragons - or play with them, make spells and see ghosts. Writers understand each other.
And that's what it's all about.
Today's thought: "I write to understand as much as to be understood." - Elie Wiesel
Today's teaser: Write an excuse to the writing principal about why you didn't write today.
To get ready for this time, I spent time yesterday puttering - redding up (and before you gig me for a misspelling, redd is a word and is in the dictionary (at least in mine), mostly used in Pennsylvania Dutch country to mean tidy or make neat.) and other "stuff", but I did manage to write seven pages of new stuff in my WIP.
I know my friends and I are really looking forward to this time. We are writers, and as such, don't get out much. Plus the other four all have young families which makes getting away even harder for them. But times like this are important for writers. It is a time to meet with others who are as crazy as ourselves and know they understand when we talk about our characters as real people or get down and dirty with poisons and weapons and other nasty stuff. They soar the heavens with us, fly to other planets, fight dragons - or play with them, make spells and see ghosts. Writers understand each other.
And that's what it's all about.
Today's thought: "I write to understand as much as to be understood." - Elie Wiesel
Today's teaser: Write an excuse to the writing principal about why you didn't write today.
Sunday, November 05, 2006
Open Minds
Yesterday, I woke up with a migraine headache, stuffy nose and general feeling of malaise but I went to my regular monthly writer's group meeting (hubby drove so I didn't have to fight the traffic as it's nearly an hour away). And I'm so glad I did.
After the usual business stuff, we had a speaker who is a third degree Wiccan priestess, Jennifer (I will not use last names here). She is witty, articulate (most of the time), and entertaining. Plus very knowledgeable. I've listened to her before and she never fails to make the time enjoyable. She spoke yesterday on the Tarot and how to use it in your writing. The hour went way too quickly and I wish I could spend an entire day with her, listening and learning, but will take these times as they come.
I will not go into the beliefs and politics of Wicca. Suffice it to say it is NOT Satanism. It has nothing to do with darkness, black magic, or evil. No, I am not Wiccan, but I have read extensively about it as well as other religions. I ask you to also do some reading and to keep an open mind. We all live on the same ball of dirt and must be tolerant of other's beliefs. Yes, there is true evil out there - anyone who would fly an airplane into a building or blow up a building where innocents play in a day care is evil. Any form of violence is evil and any religion may have in its membership evil persons, but that does not make the whole group bad.
Like religion, publishing is full of good, bad and evil people. On that list I spoke about yesterday, many people are dissing e-publishing as evil, mostly because they don't know the facts. Yes there are bad e-publishers out there, just as there are bad eggs in every business. But that doesn't mean they're all bad.
All I'm asking is to keep an open mind about doing research and look at every aspect of what you write about. Find out all the facts before forming an opinion. And before you promote yourself as an expert, make sure you know what you're talking about.
Today's thought: "Courage is resistance to fear, mastery of fear - not absence of fear." - Mark Twain
Today's teaser: Today is my eldest son's birthday - Happy Birthday! So today's teaser is about parties. You have planned the ultimate sit-down party. The guests have all arrived and the food is being served - there is just enough for everyone - when an unexpected guest arrives. This person is important and to turn them away would be an insult. What do you do?
After the usual business stuff, we had a speaker who is a third degree Wiccan priestess, Jennifer (I will not use last names here). She is witty, articulate (most of the time), and entertaining. Plus very knowledgeable. I've listened to her before and she never fails to make the time enjoyable. She spoke yesterday on the Tarot and how to use it in your writing. The hour went way too quickly and I wish I could spend an entire day with her, listening and learning, but will take these times as they come.
I will not go into the beliefs and politics of Wicca. Suffice it to say it is NOT Satanism. It has nothing to do with darkness, black magic, or evil. No, I am not Wiccan, but I have read extensively about it as well as other religions. I ask you to also do some reading and to keep an open mind. We all live on the same ball of dirt and must be tolerant of other's beliefs. Yes, there is true evil out there - anyone who would fly an airplane into a building or blow up a building where innocents play in a day care is evil. Any form of violence is evil and any religion may have in its membership evil persons, but that does not make the whole group bad.
Like religion, publishing is full of good, bad and evil people. On that list I spoke about yesterday, many people are dissing e-publishing as evil, mostly because they don't know the facts. Yes there are bad e-publishers out there, just as there are bad eggs in every business. But that doesn't mean they're all bad.
All I'm asking is to keep an open mind about doing research and look at every aspect of what you write about. Find out all the facts before forming an opinion. And before you promote yourself as an expert, make sure you know what you're talking about.
Today's thought: "Courage is resistance to fear, mastery of fear - not absence of fear." - Mark Twain
Today's teaser: Today is my eldest son's birthday - Happy Birthday! So today's teaser is about parties. You have planned the ultimate sit-down party. The guests have all arrived and the food is being served - there is just enough for everyone - when an unexpected guest arrives. This person is important and to turn them away would be an insult. What do you do?
Saturday, November 04, 2006
Creating Characters
I've been working on a new story and am about 40 pages into it but it's been slow going, then I realized it was because I didn't know my characters very well. Usually, I get to know my characters before I start writing, but the story line was so strong this time that I went that route first. At least I know the story now, and where it's going, but I need to work on my characters.
So I sat down with my character charts and sheets and got to work. Who are my heroine and hero and villain? What are they like physically? What are their strengths and weaknesses? What are their needs and goals and motivations? What makes them tick? There's a lot more, but you get the idea. I need to know why my character is doing something. I may not use even half the information I jot down, but by my knowing, I can use it to build a better character for my reader. They will know - even without my saying the actual words.
Character building is as important as plot and setting. Without well-rounded characters, the reader won't care what happens to them. And involving the reader is what this business is all about.
Today's thought: "Those who are learning to compose and arrange their sentneces with accuracy and order are learning, at the same time, to think with accuracy and order." - Hugh Blair
Today's teaser: Make a list of twenty things that happened to you over the last month. Pick one or two and write a paragraph about them. Why were they important to you? What happened?
So I sat down with my character charts and sheets and got to work. Who are my heroine and hero and villain? What are they like physically? What are their strengths and weaknesses? What are their needs and goals and motivations? What makes them tick? There's a lot more, but you get the idea. I need to know why my character is doing something. I may not use even half the information I jot down, but by my knowing, I can use it to build a better character for my reader. They will know - even without my saying the actual words.
Character building is as important as plot and setting. Without well-rounded characters, the reader won't care what happens to them. And involving the reader is what this business is all about.
Today's thought: "Those who are learning to compose and arrange their sentneces with accuracy and order are learning, at the same time, to think with accuracy and order." - Hugh Blair
Today's teaser: Make a list of twenty things that happened to you over the last month. Pick one or two and write a paragraph about them. Why were they important to you? What happened?
Friday, November 03, 2006
E-publishing, small print, and vanities
I belong to several writer's groups - both online and in person. For the most part, I lurk unless there's a topic I feel I can contribute to with some semblance of authority or clarity. I do send congratulations or welcomes, but I do them privately so as to not bog down the lists so people really don't see my name often. When they do, it's because I have something to say.
Yesterday I sent a message to one of the groups and, if you didn't know me, you'd probably think I was some nasty b.... with a chip on her shoulder. And that is so not me. I do not make waves. So what got me hot under the collar? One of the writers denouncing small print publishers and e-publishers.
According to this particular writer, vanity, small print, and e-pubs are the lowest of the low and you go to them only as a last resort. I will agree with her on one point only - vanity publishers. These are the places where you have to pay them to get your book published. They offer very little, if any, editing services (and that for an extra price), cheesy cover art (usually also an extra cost), and no marketing and definitely no royalties. This is not a publisher. This is you paying someone else to print your book for you.
Small print and e-publishers, on the other hand, are regular publishers, just with smaller runs or virtual books instead of a paperback or hardback. Yes, I know there are entities within these groups that charge for various aspects of their publishing. I would not go to them either. They may be perfectly legitimate places, but they are not for me. My opinion only. I'm talking about the places where they give you a contract for your work, edit it, do the cover art, all the legal stuff (ISBN, etc.), help promote it AND pay you royalties. Just like the big boys in New York - but on a much smaller scale.
Often, these publishers, especially e-pubs, are more willing to look at genres that the big boys don't want to play with. They are more open to sub-genres and experimental works and are often the leading edge of lines that become so popular that the big boys have to sit up and take notice - and then follow the smaller pubs leads. E-publishers often offer much larger royalties than print publishers. Yes, you have to do a lot of the marketing work, but you'd do that with a large house anyway. Plus, according to one editor at a large New York house, they often look at authors who have gone the e-publishing or small press route before they'll look at an unpublished writer. Those same editors also will not look at a vanity publication unless it has sold more than 5000 copies. Good luck with that from a vanity publisher.
My two books are going to be published by an e-publisher - Cerridwen Press - who has earned a good reputation and decent sales records. Some of their books go to POD (when an e-book comes out in print - print-on-demand). Yes, I would love to hold my books in my hand some day, especially since many of my relatives are not computer fanatics like me. I could then hand them one of my books. But I am extremely happy with my e-books and my publisher. And I look at this as the beginnning of bigger and better things. For me, it is the right move.
Don't dismiss e-publishers and small press publishers as you look for places to send your work. Sometimes, they are the best place to start.
Today's thought: "The real writer will write. He has something inside of him that must come out. If a person has a book in him, he will sit down and write it." - Kurt Vonnegut
Today's Teaser: Finish the following using: chocolate, watch, fan, ice
When the lights went out, I was.....
Yesterday I sent a message to one of the groups and, if you didn't know me, you'd probably think I was some nasty b.... with a chip on her shoulder. And that is so not me. I do not make waves. So what got me hot under the collar? One of the writers denouncing small print publishers and e-publishers.
According to this particular writer, vanity, small print, and e-pubs are the lowest of the low and you go to them only as a last resort. I will agree with her on one point only - vanity publishers. These are the places where you have to pay them to get your book published. They offer very little, if any, editing services (and that for an extra price), cheesy cover art (usually also an extra cost), and no marketing and definitely no royalties. This is not a publisher. This is you paying someone else to print your book for you.
Small print and e-publishers, on the other hand, are regular publishers, just with smaller runs or virtual books instead of a paperback or hardback. Yes, I know there are entities within these groups that charge for various aspects of their publishing. I would not go to them either. They may be perfectly legitimate places, but they are not for me. My opinion only. I'm talking about the places where they give you a contract for your work, edit it, do the cover art, all the legal stuff (ISBN, etc.), help promote it AND pay you royalties. Just like the big boys in New York - but on a much smaller scale.
Often, these publishers, especially e-pubs, are more willing to look at genres that the big boys don't want to play with. They are more open to sub-genres and experimental works and are often the leading edge of lines that become so popular that the big boys have to sit up and take notice - and then follow the smaller pubs leads. E-publishers often offer much larger royalties than print publishers. Yes, you have to do a lot of the marketing work, but you'd do that with a large house anyway. Plus, according to one editor at a large New York house, they often look at authors who have gone the e-publishing or small press route before they'll look at an unpublished writer. Those same editors also will not look at a vanity publication unless it has sold more than 5000 copies. Good luck with that from a vanity publisher.
My two books are going to be published by an e-publisher - Cerridwen Press - who has earned a good reputation and decent sales records. Some of their books go to POD (when an e-book comes out in print - print-on-demand). Yes, I would love to hold my books in my hand some day, especially since many of my relatives are not computer fanatics like me. I could then hand them one of my books. But I am extremely happy with my e-books and my publisher. And I look at this as the beginnning of bigger and better things. For me, it is the right move.
Don't dismiss e-publishers and small press publishers as you look for places to send your work. Sometimes, they are the best place to start.
Today's thought: "The real writer will write. He has something inside of him that must come out. If a person has a book in him, he will sit down and write it." - Kurt Vonnegut
Today's Teaser: Finish the following using: chocolate, watch, fan, ice
When the lights went out, I was.....
Thursday, November 02, 2006
Reading and Writing (but no 'rithmetic)
I spent yesterday reading a book. Okay, what's so special about that? I was reading it for fun. I didn't have to write a review on it. I didn't have to critique it. I didn't have to edit it. I just read it.
Okay, so I did take a few notes on some things that might work for my own stuff, but for the most part, I just read it. And enjoyed it.
What is surprising for me is that the book was by Nora Roberts, a mega-super star in the romance novel department. I've read her books before and generally did not like them. I did, however, love her "witch" series so thought I'd try her "star" series. As an editor, I'd have to honestly say she is not a great technical writer. She switches point of view left and right so you're never sure who you're "listening" to, but she does tell a good story.
And I find that interesting. I've heard others talk about various writers and how they're "not good writers," but they tell such a good story that you forget about the technical stuff. Over the years as an editor/reviewer/critquer, I've read books that were technically well done, but there was some indefinable aspect missing from the story. I'd sit there and disect the work, not able to lose myself in the story. For me, the editing is important, but if you've told such a good story that I turn off the editor and just read, then you've done your job.
But what makes a good story? What is that indefinable "something" that transports you to wherever that story is set? What makes you turn off your internal critic and enjoy a book?
And that is Today's Teaser: What defines a good book for you?
Thought for today: "Writing keeps me from believing everything I read." - Gloria Steinem
Okay, so I did take a few notes on some things that might work for my own stuff, but for the most part, I just read it. And enjoyed it.
What is surprising for me is that the book was by Nora Roberts, a mega-super star in the romance novel department. I've read her books before and generally did not like them. I did, however, love her "witch" series so thought I'd try her "star" series. As an editor, I'd have to honestly say she is not a great technical writer. She switches point of view left and right so you're never sure who you're "listening" to, but she does tell a good story.
And I find that interesting. I've heard others talk about various writers and how they're "not good writers," but they tell such a good story that you forget about the technical stuff. Over the years as an editor/reviewer/critquer, I've read books that were technically well done, but there was some indefinable aspect missing from the story. I'd sit there and disect the work, not able to lose myself in the story. For me, the editing is important, but if you've told such a good story that I turn off the editor and just read, then you've done your job.
But what makes a good story? What is that indefinable "something" that transports you to wherever that story is set? What makes you turn off your internal critic and enjoy a book?
And that is Today's Teaser: What defines a good book for you?
Thought for today: "Writing keeps me from believing everything I read." - Gloria Steinem
Wednesday, November 01, 2006
Which witch is which
A homonym is a word that sounds the same as another word but has a different spelling and meaning, such as which/witch. The first is an adjective (or a pronoun depending on usage) while the second is a person with magical powers. Fortunately, I rarely see this pair mixed up in writing.
What I do see a lot of is mixups in there/their/they're, your/you're/yore and to/too/two. Of these groups the most common mistakes are with their/they're, your/you're and to/too. That only makes sense as the other homonyms for these words are so completely different in meaning that most people understand. The biggest problem with these words is that a spellchecker will NOT pick them up. They are not spelled incorrectly. But they are often used incorrectly.
They're - This is a contraction for "they are" as in: They're (They are) going to the store.
Their - This is a possessive pronoun and cannot be split into "they are". It is used in sentences such as: This is their house. (the house belongs to them).
You're - Another contraction, this time for "you are" as in: You're (You are) not what I pictured.
Your - A possessive pronoun that cannot be split into "you are": This is your half of the pie. (This half belongs to you.)
To - a preposition with multiple meanings. Some include 1) to go in the direction of (he went to Boston), 2) on, against, at something (tie it to the post), 3) until (from noon to midnight), etc.
Too - an adverb meaning also, more than enough, very as in: This is just too good for words. (more than) Or: I want to go too. (also)
Some other homonyms that are misused:
peeked/peaked/piqued - to look quickly (peeked in the window) / to be at the maximum (his ability has peaked and will now decline) / aroused or excited (piqued his interest)
tic/tick - nervous twitch (his face twitched with a nervous tic) / bloodsucking insect (I found a tick on my dog)
alter/altar - to change something (changing that sentence will alter the meaning) / place for worship (place the flowers on the altar at the front of the church)
vice/vise - moral sin (guttony is a vice) / tool for gripping something strongly (he put the wood he was working on in a vise to hold it steady)
who's/whose - contraction for 'who is' (Who's going to the movies with me?) / possessive pronoun (whose coat is this?)
There are many many more of these words. These are just a few. Please check the meanings of the words you use and have someone else who knows these things read your work. Your editor will thank you.
Today's thought: "The only place where success comes before work is in the dictionary." - Vidal Sassoon
Today's Teaser: Last night was Trick or Treat night. In your (or your child's) bag, you find a note: "Help me. I've been kidnapped." A phone number and partial adress is scribbled on the note. What do you do?
What I do see a lot of is mixups in there/their/they're, your/you're/yore and to/too/two. Of these groups the most common mistakes are with their/they're, your/you're and to/too. That only makes sense as the other homonyms for these words are so completely different in meaning that most people understand. The biggest problem with these words is that a spellchecker will NOT pick them up. They are not spelled incorrectly. But they are often used incorrectly.
They're - This is a contraction for "they are" as in: They're (They are) going to the store.
Their - This is a possessive pronoun and cannot be split into "they are". It is used in sentences such as: This is their house. (the house belongs to them).
You're - Another contraction, this time for "you are" as in: You're (You are) not what I pictured.
Your - A possessive pronoun that cannot be split into "you are": This is your half of the pie. (This half belongs to you.)
To - a preposition with multiple meanings. Some include 1) to go in the direction of (he went to Boston), 2) on, against, at something (tie it to the post), 3) until (from noon to midnight), etc.
Too - an adverb meaning also, more than enough, very as in: This is just too good for words. (more than) Or: I want to go too. (also)
Some other homonyms that are misused:
peeked/peaked/piqued - to look quickly (peeked in the window) / to be at the maximum (his ability has peaked and will now decline) / aroused or excited (piqued his interest)
tic/tick - nervous twitch (his face twitched with a nervous tic) / bloodsucking insect (I found a tick on my dog)
alter/altar - to change something (changing that sentence will alter the meaning) / place for worship (place the flowers on the altar at the front of the church)
vice/vise - moral sin (guttony is a vice) / tool for gripping something strongly (he put the wood he was working on in a vise to hold it steady)
who's/whose - contraction for 'who is' (Who's going to the movies with me?) / possessive pronoun (whose coat is this?)
There are many many more of these words. These are just a few. Please check the meanings of the words you use and have someone else who knows these things read your work. Your editor will thank you.
Today's thought: "The only place where success comes before work is in the dictionary." - Vidal Sassoon
Today's Teaser: Last night was Trick or Treat night. In your (or your child's) bag, you find a note: "Help me. I've been kidnapped." A phone number and partial adress is scribbled on the note. What do you do?
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