The Writing Life
I ruined steak for my brother when I split a Ruth’s Chris gift card with him. He took one bite of a Ruth’s Chris steak, and he was done, forever. Literally slayed in the seat. Agog with wonder that a steak, a steak, could taste that good.
[Read more…] about How to be a Better Writer: Set a Standard
If you want to be a better writer, you must learn to let go of the words. Think of the process as being like teaching a kid to ride a bike. You would hold onto the back of the seat for a time, but eventually, you would release it. The kid must wobble and find the way to balance on his or her own power.
All sorts of analogies apply to the writing life, and this week’s involves gardening. It’s a strange comparison to make because, with the exception of some tea roses, I own the slightest of slight green thumbs. I love flower and vegetable gardens, but I lack the patience and desire to care for them.
[Read more…] about How to Be a Better Writer: Tend Your Words
“Writers are troublemakers.” — Meg Gardiner, author, CreativeMornings (Austin)
Good writers employ solid plot structures and interesting characters. Better writers tweak the models. That is, they get into trouble. They twist fate, upset the predictable plot line, use present tense instead of the standard past, or create empathy for the most dastardly of villains.
[Read more…] about How to Be a Better Writer: Get into Trouble
When your best isn’t good enough, several emotions and thoughts drift into the mind. The logical thought says you did your best. It should provide a sense of comfort and wellbeing. You did your best, and that’s what counts, even if your best didn’t deliver the contract, award, or other objective. [Read more…] about When Your Best isn’t Good Enough
I’ve talked about how writing is like baking previously. The analogy suffices. A writer adds ingredients to create something worth consuming.
[Read more…] about How to Be a Better Writer: Pair Quality Ingredients