By David E. Sharp Lewis Carroll’s advice for storytelling is, “Begin at the beginning, and go on till you come to the end: then stop.” It’s simple, but it isn’t easy. I can usually identify the end of a story, but where does it begin? The morning of the inciting incident? The day the protagonistContinue reading “The Starting Pistol”
Tag Archives: Writing Advice
The Wayback Machine
By Brian Kaufman I had a favorite cartoon in the sixties — Peabody’s Improbable History. Reimagined in a 2014 film renamed Mr. Peabody And Sherman. Mister Peabody, a dog, and his boy, Sherman, began each episode by stepping into The Wayback Machine, which transported them to critical moments in history.
In Search of . . . an Author Brand
By David E. Sharp The day finally arrived. I never thought it would. I had heard the myths, of course. Legends spoke of such a day long ago, but I never believed it existed. I would sooner chase pots of gold at the end of rainbows than put my hope in ridiculous notions that IContinue reading “In Search of . . . an Author Brand”
I Learned It by Watching You!
By Katie Lewis Oscar Wilde once said, “Imitation is the sincerest form of flattery that mediocrity can pay to greatness.” As with any skill we learn, writers often imitate their favorite stories or authors while developing their own voice. And despite Oscar’s shade, it’s nothing to be ashamed of. Imitation and repetition are simply partContinue reading “I Learned It by Watching You!”
Antiresolutionist
By David E. Sharp As the curtain closes on another January, take a moment to reflect on any New Year’s resolutions you may have made. Statistically, over half of you have dedicated yourselves to personal improvement. Fitness is a common goal. Eliminating bad habits. For readers of The Writing Bug, there are probably goals relatedContinue reading “Antiresolutionist”
The Sound Investment
(Podcast Interviews) By Brian Kaufman I don’t know about you, but podcasts are one of my main media digestibles. Want to know about the latest hullaballoo in reality TV? The Ringer’s An American Scandoval could be your cup of tea. Need help to get a handle on the constantly shifting youth culture? (No age jokes,Continue reading “The Sound Investment”
You Know What You Need to Know
By Katie Lewis “Write what you know” is a quote usually attributed to Mark Twain. It has become a cornerstone of writing advice in the hundred-plus years since he may or may not have said this. Like other writing rules, however, I feel it’s somewhat misunderstood. You know more than you may think you do.Continue reading “You Know What You Need to Know”
Due Diligence
By Amy Rivers As an author, I receive many unsolicited offers via email and social media for everything from reviews and promotions to potential offers of representation from literary agencies. Very few of these offers are legitimate. Though companies do cold calls or cold emails, most credible companies respond (sometimes) to inquiries you make asContinue reading “Due Diligence”
Yes, You DO Need Market Research
By Brian Kaufman I spent time in two bookstores last week, doing casual market research. Not the kind I’m going to recommend. But there’s a lot to be learned from wandering aisles, checking out covers, titles, and genres, and discovering what publishers are putting their money behind. Bookstore shelves are great for determining where yourContinue reading “Yes, You DO Need Market Research”
The Strangely Mundane
By Katie Lewis Whether you prefer to write stories set in our world or on another planet, how characters interact with their world is incredibly important. Of particular interest is the question of what is surprising to them and what is not. Defining what is a life-altering event and what is simply a Tuesday isContinue reading “The Strangely Mundane”
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