Okay, I admit it. I'm about 12 hours late posting this blog.
I have an excuse. A great big fat one that everyone functioning on all eight cylinders will admit is a perfectly reasonable and logical excuse.
I spent the afternoon in a dentist's chair--this was after I spent the morning talking myself into getting into the car and driving to the office in order to sit in an unergonomically designed dentist's chair.
All because the permanent bridge, for which I have spent a total of four hours [two separate days] in said chair to be measured, gummed, epoxied, drilled, sanded and otherwise tortured to the nth degree failed to fit properly and had to be sent back to the factory. The temporary bridge [another two hours] came loose and screwed up my occlusion [a fancy word for bite] and I was unable to chew on either side without pain.
As I am the original of dental phobic patients, no one is happy about this turn of events.
I'm sure the hygienists or technicians or whatever their title is draw straws to see who must attend to me whenever they see my name on the day's list of appointments.
And I have no doubt the dentist herself stocks up on an adequate supply of Valium or other effective anti-anxiety agent to take either before, during, or after my appointments.
For the next two weeks I must stick to soft foods; I cannot chew on the affected side; I must avoid grinding my teeth [which is like telling me not to snarl].
I am not a happy camper.
Snarling is one of the things I do best.
Who's up next?
Kat
Wednesday, May 27, 2009
Monday, May 25, 2009
Memorial Day
Memorial Day or Decoration Day as it was originally called, was a day set aside to honor those who served and died in wars. The unofficial start of summer is celebrated with parades, picnics, and the sale of red poppies.
Seldom do we consider the true cost of war. Those young men and women buried are gone, no longer feeling the pain of bullets, shrapnel, or flames. Sacrifices are endured by the living.
The children, growing up without a father, robbed of emotions never felt, grapple with lifelong emptiness. The picture on the mantle can’t slap them on the back when they hit their first home-run.
The broken promise of forever will haunt the surviving spouse until the day they die. Dreams cut by bullets quickly become nightmares.
Mothers cradle folded flags and hold only memories to their hearts. Fathers, always the protectors, feel an anguished helplessness that never fades.
The comrades, who by some miracle survived, carry the deepest indiscernible scars. They become the walking wounded, consumed by guilt and forever asking why.
Prideful patriotism only serves to mask the pain of war. War is not glorious. It is death and destruction.
Before I get off my soapbox, I have a couple recommended reads, a touching description of a Viet Nam soldier by Rosemary Goodwin and a commentary from Andy Rooney.
http://www.rosemarygoodwin.blogspot.com/
http://www.cbsnews.com/stories/2005/05/26/60minutes/rooney/main697964.shtml
Seldom do we consider the true cost of war. Those young men and women buried are gone, no longer feeling the pain of bullets, shrapnel, or flames. Sacrifices are endured by the living.
The children, growing up without a father, robbed of emotions never felt, grapple with lifelong emptiness. The picture on the mantle can’t slap them on the back when they hit their first home-run.
The broken promise of forever will haunt the surviving spouse until the day they die. Dreams cut by bullets quickly become nightmares.
Mothers cradle folded flags and hold only memories to their hearts. Fathers, always the protectors, feel an anguished helplessness that never fades.
The comrades, who by some miracle survived, carry the deepest indiscernible scars. They become the walking wounded, consumed by guilt and forever asking why.
Prideful patriotism only serves to mask the pain of war. War is not glorious. It is death and destruction.
Before I get off my soapbox, I have a couple recommended reads, a touching description of a Viet Nam soldier by Rosemary Goodwin and a commentary from Andy Rooney.
http://www.rosemarygoodwin.blogspot.com/
http://www.cbsnews.com/stories/2005/05/26/60minutes/rooney/main697964.shtml
Thursday, May 21, 2009
Editing the Hell Out of Your Voice
As a member of various writing critique groups I often get wonderful feedback on my stories and novels. Most often I'm asked to change the way a sentence sounds, or given examples of ways to shorten (or lengthen) my sentences. Choppy sentences? Add words. Cumbersome detail? Take away words. Like a madman with a pair of hedge clippers, I trim away at my work until all I see is a mass of twigs and a hunk of leaves. In other words...it's no longer the piece I'd been aiming for.
The truth is, it's possible to lose the story in zealous over-editing. So what is a writer needing feedback to do? Here's what I've learned along the way...
1) Know the critiquer's style of writing. If your critique buddy likes short, succinct sentences and your prefer run-ons and long trains of thought, you will probably not see eye-to-eye. As long as your style remains fluent throughout your piece and you are able to write it well (not clumsily), give your partner a nod, but don't start tossing every adverb and adjective you've spent hours to get just right. There's room in magazines and on bookshelves for all types of voices and styles. Don't change yours to suit a critique member, unless you agree with them whole-heartedly.
2) I've heard more about passive voice versus active voice, and get rid of all -ly adverbs no matter what than I have about pacing or characterization. Why? Because these are so much easier to focus on. Having someone point out where you've used telling instead of showing is important, don't get me wrong. I'm grateful everytime someone underlines these on my manuscripts, but taking these away at every turn can also change the voice and the flavor of the work. Sometimes an adverb is easier and helpful (as in very young children's books) and sometimes it's okay to write "She was interested in all thing ethereal." In other words, don't change these based on a critiquer's opinion alone. Think it over. Is there a better way to phrase it? Or will it change the way your work reads too much?
3) Sometimes critiquers don't like the genre you are writing for. Or you are writing at a different educational level than they prefer to read. They find themselves bored. They might even (horrors!) have ideas on how to rewrite your story to make it more interesting. Eventually, their suggestions begin to take on the tone of the last novel you critiqued for them. You may find yourself believing they might be right. After all, their ideas sound compelling. But ask yourself...is that the story you wanted to tell? Don't allow yourself to be carried away on the wave of someones else's creation. Swim to shore, back to solid ground where your story stands, the way you want it written.
Of course you want to take someone's critique under serious consideration. They are, after all, your audience. If they don't understand what you are trying to say or find your sentences awkward, their advice can be invaluable. But in the end, this is your story. You make the final decisions. As they say, too many critiquers can spoil the manuscript (okay, I made that up.) Whatever you do, don't clip those hedges until you know how high and wide you want them to be. Don't cut for the sake of cutting.
The truth is, it's possible to lose the story in zealous over-editing. So what is a writer needing feedback to do? Here's what I've learned along the way...
1) Know the critiquer's style of writing. If your critique buddy likes short, succinct sentences and your prefer run-ons and long trains of thought, you will probably not see eye-to-eye. As long as your style remains fluent throughout your piece and you are able to write it well (not clumsily), give your partner a nod, but don't start tossing every adverb and adjective you've spent hours to get just right. There's room in magazines and on bookshelves for all types of voices and styles. Don't change yours to suit a critique member, unless you agree with them whole-heartedly.
2) I've heard more about passive voice versus active voice, and get rid of all -ly adverbs no matter what than I have about pacing or characterization. Why? Because these are so much easier to focus on. Having someone point out where you've used telling instead of showing is important, don't get me wrong. I'm grateful everytime someone underlines these on my manuscripts, but taking these away at every turn can also change the voice and the flavor of the work. Sometimes an adverb is easier and helpful (as in very young children's books) and sometimes it's okay to write "She was interested in all thing ethereal." In other words, don't change these based on a critiquer's opinion alone. Think it over. Is there a better way to phrase it? Or will it change the way your work reads too much?
3) Sometimes critiquers don't like the genre you are writing for. Or you are writing at a different educational level than they prefer to read. They find themselves bored. They might even (horrors!) have ideas on how to rewrite your story to make it more interesting. Eventually, their suggestions begin to take on the tone of the last novel you critiqued for them. You may find yourself believing they might be right. After all, their ideas sound compelling. But ask yourself...is that the story you wanted to tell? Don't allow yourself to be carried away on the wave of someones else's creation. Swim to shore, back to solid ground where your story stands, the way you want it written.
Of course you want to take someone's critique under serious consideration. They are, after all, your audience. If they don't understand what you are trying to say or find your sentences awkward, their advice can be invaluable. But in the end, this is your story. You make the final decisions. As they say, too many critiquers can spoil the manuscript (okay, I made that up.) Whatever you do, don't clip those hedges until you know how high and wide you want them to be. Don't cut for the sake of cutting.
Tuesday, May 19, 2009
BOOK IDEAS FOR FATHER'S DAY!
I haven't always been a reader. Haven't always been a writer. Actually, back in high school, I dreaded opening up a book. I am dyslexic and reading wasn't high on my list of things to do. I had no problem standing in front of the class and talking, though. My favorite class back then was Public Speaking. I rarely wrote a speech, but talked from the hip, something I thought I was pretty good at. Still am. Well, at least with a subject matter I am comfortable with. Anyway, I had to take an English Elective and I choose Media Studies. It was my senior year and it was 1984. Yes, now you all can do the math and figure out how old I will be. Anyway, we had read the book 1984 by George Orwell. I was bummed. I thought we'd be talking about television, my favorite past-time, at the time anyway. But that wasn't the case.
I opened the book and it took me all night to get through the first chapter, and to understand it. I found myself with a bigger problem. I loved the concept of the book. The whole idea of Big Brother intrigued me. And the fact that it was 1984, well, that just put the icing on the cake for me. I was a huge Star Trek fan, so anything that described what future life might be like I enjoyed, well, on television that is. I didn't read. But I had to read that book.
This was one of the few classes I actually went to on a regular basis and paid attention to. I loved listening to the talks about the book because it helped me understand the damn thing. I didn't say much though, kind of unusual for me. I just listened. It was the first step in becoming a reader.
Long story short, after HS I found out I was dyslexic, learned to overcome it, and started reading everything in sight. I kid you not. I didn't care about genre, I just started reading. And reading. And reading. And I never stopped. I still read at least one to two books a week. Right now I'm reading DOWN RIVER by John Hart. I'm about halfway through and I really like it. Guess that's my first book recommendation.
So, I generally give books for gifts. My step-father always enjoys the books I give him (he reads more than I do!) especially the ones I get signed for him from some of his favorite authors. And since he's in the middle of a move right now, I don't think he'll be reading this blog post, so I can tell you the book I'm getting him for father's day. It comes out June 2, 2009, so there is plenty of time to purchase said book.
The title is WHO DARES WINS: The Green Beret Way to Conquer Fear and Succeed by Bob Mayer. It is a non-fiction book and I know my step-father will really enjoy it. He likes books like that. Granted, I haven't read since it's not out yet, however, I have taken writing workshops from the author and heard him talk about this concept, and well, am buying one for myself as well.
If the man in your life is a golfer, such as mine, I have two recommendations for you. The first is THE PRO: Lessons About Golf and Life from my Father, Claude Harmon, Sr. by Claude "Butch" Harmon, Jr. This is a book near and dear to my heart as Craig Harmon (Butch's brother) is the golf pro at Oak Hill Country Club in my hometown. The second golf book is DAVE PELZ'S PUTTING BIBLE. I recommend this book because it is one of the few book my husband has read cover to cover. A book a putting? Go figure.
It's always hard for me to recommend fiction in general. If someone asks me for a good book in a specific genre, or by a specific author, well, it's a little easier then. It depends on what you are looking for. I like books of all kinds, I don't discriminate. Well, I didn't read the putting book, but my husband liked it.
If the man in your life enjoys a good mystery, then I'd go with GREASING THE PINATA by Tim Maleeny.
If the man in your life enjoys something a bit more on the dark side, I'd go with CALLING MR. LONELY HEARTS by Laura Benedict. Excellent book.
A political thriller? Well, then I'd go with LOST GIRLS, by Robert Doherty. Excellent book.
Another thriller I enjoyed was THE FOOTPRINTS OF GOD, by Greg Iles.
A paranormal is needed? I just finished DEATH DEALER by Heather Graham. Very interesting indeed.
Something very twisted? Well, WHEN SHE WAS BAD, by Jonathan Nasaw.
So, there you have it, my book recommendations. Happy reading.
I opened the book and it took me all night to get through the first chapter, and to understand it. I found myself with a bigger problem. I loved the concept of the book. The whole idea of Big Brother intrigued me. And the fact that it was 1984, well, that just put the icing on the cake for me. I was a huge Star Trek fan, so anything that described what future life might be like I enjoyed, well, on television that is. I didn't read. But I had to read that book.
This was one of the few classes I actually went to on a regular basis and paid attention to. I loved listening to the talks about the book because it helped me understand the damn thing. I didn't say much though, kind of unusual for me. I just listened. It was the first step in becoming a reader.
Long story short, after HS I found out I was dyslexic, learned to overcome it, and started reading everything in sight. I kid you not. I didn't care about genre, I just started reading. And reading. And reading. And I never stopped. I still read at least one to two books a week. Right now I'm reading DOWN RIVER by John Hart. I'm about halfway through and I really like it. Guess that's my first book recommendation.
So, I generally give books for gifts. My step-father always enjoys the books I give him (he reads more than I do!) especially the ones I get signed for him from some of his favorite authors. And since he's in the middle of a move right now, I don't think he'll be reading this blog post, so I can tell you the book I'm getting him for father's day. It comes out June 2, 2009, so there is plenty of time to purchase said book.
The title is WHO DARES WINS: The Green Beret Way to Conquer Fear and Succeed by Bob Mayer. It is a non-fiction book and I know my step-father will really enjoy it. He likes books like that. Granted, I haven't read since it's not out yet, however, I have taken writing workshops from the author and heard him talk about this concept, and well, am buying one for myself as well.
If the man in your life is a golfer, such as mine, I have two recommendations for you. The first is THE PRO: Lessons About Golf and Life from my Father, Claude Harmon, Sr. by Claude "Butch" Harmon, Jr. This is a book near and dear to my heart as Craig Harmon (Butch's brother) is the golf pro at Oak Hill Country Club in my hometown. The second golf book is DAVE PELZ'S PUTTING BIBLE. I recommend this book because it is one of the few book my husband has read cover to cover. A book a putting? Go figure.
It's always hard for me to recommend fiction in general. If someone asks me for a good book in a specific genre, or by a specific author, well, it's a little easier then. It depends on what you are looking for. I like books of all kinds, I don't discriminate. Well, I didn't read the putting book, but my husband liked it.
If the man in your life enjoys a good mystery, then I'd go with GREASING THE PINATA by Tim Maleeny.
If the man in your life enjoys something a bit more on the dark side, I'd go with CALLING MR. LONELY HEARTS by Laura Benedict. Excellent book.
A political thriller? Well, then I'd go with LOST GIRLS, by Robert Doherty. Excellent book.
Another thriller I enjoyed was THE FOOTPRINTS OF GOD, by Greg Iles.
A paranormal is needed? I just finished DEATH DEALER by Heather Graham. Very interesting indeed.
Something very twisted? Well, WHEN SHE WAS BAD, by Jonathan Nasaw.
So, there you have it, my book recommendations. Happy reading.
Monday, May 18, 2009
Keeping up with the responsibilities of life...
Hello fellow writers,
My thoughts today are about time management. I work full time, take care of my daughter (and husband at times), write, read for Wild Rose Press, and finally there's housework. Notice that's LAST on the list.
It's hard, there are days when I am on a roll writing and want to do it all day. Family outings. Then there's the cleaning binges. Deadlines for reading. The only thing I can't change is my work schedule.
I wish there was a tried and true method to manage my time.
Two hours here, two hours there...and everything gets done. Not possible.
I guess it's like everything else, all in moderation. I can't stop working, I can't and don't want to take time away from my family, and I guess I have to keep the house livable since I can't afford a housekeeper.
At this point in my life if I can write 2-3 hours a day. That's AWESOME! I'll take what I can get. And maybe save some dusting for later.
My thoughts today are about time management. I work full time, take care of my daughter (and husband at times), write, read for Wild Rose Press, and finally there's housework. Notice that's LAST on the list.
It's hard, there are days when I am on a roll writing and want to do it all day. Family outings. Then there's the cleaning binges. Deadlines for reading. The only thing I can't change is my work schedule.
I wish there was a tried and true method to manage my time.
Two hours here, two hours there...and everything gets done. Not possible.
I guess it's like everything else, all in moderation. I can't stop working, I can't and don't want to take time away from my family, and I guess I have to keep the house livable since I can't afford a housekeeper.
At this point in my life if I can write 2-3 hours a day. That's AWESOME! I'll take what I can get. And maybe save some dusting for later.
Tuesday, May 12, 2009
Kind Words From a Stranger
As a reader I've often wondered what was the most difficult part of writing a book. Some authors say the first line. Some say the saggy middle. While others struggle with creating a satisfying ending. Although none of those things were easy for me when I sat down to write my first two manuscripts, they were far less stressful than what was to follow.
It wasn't until my first two novels were contracted, edited and released that I experienced true anxiety. Feedback. The truth is I would like everyone that purchases a book with my name on it to have a pleasant reading experience. Sadly, this simply isn't possible. As a voracious reader I've picked up books that I've adored and some that have landed with a thud against my living room wall.
This brings me to the point of my post. Sometimes an unexpected kindness gives you a boost when you need it most. Tuesday I received a lovely email from the founder of a well known review site. It seems that she stumbled upon both of my books and in her words 'loved them'. In fact she wanted to know about future stories and whether any secondary characters would now have their own book.
Now, I'm pretty sure this individual had no idea how much I genuinely appreciated her thoughtfulness. See, I'm not really at a point where I consider myself an author. Maybe that comes with time and far greater experience. But yesterday I felt like I moved one step closer to the real deal. More than anything it's given me one more thing that I can hold close to my heart when I encounter the crush of future rejection. In an industry of ups and downs --- a few small words go a long way!
It wasn't until my first two novels were contracted, edited and released that I experienced true anxiety. Feedback. The truth is I would like everyone that purchases a book with my name on it to have a pleasant reading experience. Sadly, this simply isn't possible. As a voracious reader I've picked up books that I've adored and some that have landed with a thud against my living room wall.
This brings me to the point of my post. Sometimes an unexpected kindness gives you a boost when you need it most. Tuesday I received a lovely email from the founder of a well known review site. It seems that she stumbled upon both of my books and in her words 'loved them'. In fact she wanted to know about future stories and whether any secondary characters would now have their own book.
Now, I'm pretty sure this individual had no idea how much I genuinely appreciated her thoughtfulness. See, I'm not really at a point where I consider myself an author. Maybe that comes with time and far greater experience. But yesterday I felt like I moved one step closer to the real deal. More than anything it's given me one more thing that I can hold close to my heart when I encounter the crush of future rejection. In an industry of ups and downs --- a few small words go a long way!
Sunday, May 10, 2009
Finished yet?
When is the manuscript done? It seems like a never ending process. I am close to finishing the first draft of the novel I'm currently working on. I plan to go through editing checklists, read it aloud, bring it to my critique group, give it to readers. Spellcheck. Etc.
There is always more to check, change or fix.
When is it done?
For prolific authors who write books every year or every six months, who have contracts, they must have a time when they say, okay this is it. Stop.
Does it help to have a deadline?
Writing is probably their full time job and they are probably assigned editors who check & recheck their work. Still...sometimes it's got to be hard to let go.
I feel like the more I write, the more I learn. That can either help or hinder me. I remember during the time I was writing my first manuscript I learned about POV. I had to go through and check all my scenes. Many of them included head-hopping.
Another time, I learned about dialog tags, same thing.
But then there's the times when I'm afraid to use a word that's perfect in a sentence because it ends in ly.
Can you edit to death?
I think so. Your story needs YOUR voice. Grammar is one thing, but keep your voice.
And after awhile youhave to let it go. Send it out.
Then, when your manuscript is picked up, let the experts tell you what to fix.
And start a new one.
There is always more to check, change or fix.
When is it done?
For prolific authors who write books every year or every six months, who have contracts, they must have a time when they say, okay this is it. Stop.
Does it help to have a deadline?
Writing is probably their full time job and they are probably assigned editors who check & recheck their work. Still...sometimes it's got to be hard to let go.
I feel like the more I write, the more I learn. That can either help or hinder me. I remember during the time I was writing my first manuscript I learned about POV. I had to go through and check all my scenes. Many of them included head-hopping.
Another time, I learned about dialog tags, same thing.
But then there's the times when I'm afraid to use a word that's perfect in a sentence because it ends in ly.
Can you edit to death?
I think so. Your story needs YOUR voice. Grammar is one thing, but keep your voice.
And after awhile youhave to let it go. Send it out.
Then, when your manuscript is picked up, let the experts tell you what to fix.
And start a new one.
Finding a market
If you are a fiction or poetry writer, where do you go to find the perfect publication for your work? Writer’s Market (http://writersmarket.com/) is the touch stone of information. They have a treasure trove of information and have over 6,000 market listings and contact names. At $5.99 per month or $39.99 a year, they are a resource every writer should know about.
However, I would like to introduce you to a free site that I have used to find a publisher for my last two short stories. Duotrope’s Digest (http://www.duotrope.com/index.aspx) has over 2425 fiction and poetry listings. The main search criteria include: Genre, Theme, length, Pay scale, and Media. They, also, have a submission tracker – and we all know that can be priceless.
When you go to the Details page, you are treated to a plethora of information to narrow your search. If you want more, there is a link directly to the website of the publication.
They even have a listing of the most slothful publications (http://www.duotrope.com/rtstats.aspx?pubtype=S&report=Top25) (that steered me away from Alfred Hitchcock's Mystery Magazine), the quickest, the publications that accept the fewest submissions.
All-in-all, I love this site and recommend that you, at the least, give it a look when searching for a publisher.
However, I would like to introduce you to a free site that I have used to find a publisher for my last two short stories. Duotrope’s Digest (http://www.duotrope.com/index.aspx) has over 2425 fiction and poetry listings. The main search criteria include: Genre, Theme, length, Pay scale, and Media. They, also, have a submission tracker – and we all know that can be priceless.
When you go to the Details page, you are treated to a plethora of information to narrow your search. If you want more, there is a link directly to the website of the publication.
They even have a listing of the most slothful publications (http://www.duotrope.com/rtstats.aspx?pubtype=S&report=Top25) (that steered me away from Alfred Hitchcock's Mystery Magazine), the quickest, the publications that accept the fewest submissions.
All-in-all, I love this site and recommend that you, at the least, give it a look when searching for a publisher.
Friday, May 8, 2009
Fiction Writers
How does a writer learn to write fiction? Does it start with a captivating children's story read to you by your mother? How about when you get hooked on Nancy Drew or the Hardy Boys (yes, I admit I'm dated), or maybe something a bit more adult - Shakespeare, Dostoyevsky, Salinger, Dickens, Poe? Does it start in high school English class?
If your're like me, you were assigned numerous essays and reports, term papers, theses and such during your school years. You may have been required to write fiction pieces in a creative writing class or as part of a special project in your history class. But if you enjoyed the writing assignments, sooner later you found yourself writing for pleasure - even if you were the only person who actually read the material.
My first literary piece was a mystery entitled "The Mystery of the Lost Skull," which I presented to my startled parents when I was nine. I think my mother still has it tucked away with her high school yearbooks, the petrified corsage from her weekend at Harvard, and my sister's first baseball mitt. (I come from a long line of pack rats). I'm descended from a prolific writer of fiction, too, but he died in 1932 so I can't pick his brain to help me hone my writing skills. Hope some of his talent rubbed off on me.
Being an avid reader is helpful if you're an aspiring writer. But the question is: how do those terrific writers do it? How do they grab you? How do they scare you and keep you awake at night or make you cry over obstacles keeping the lovers apart? I want to do that! I want to be Nora Roberts or James Patterson or Stephen King or Anne Rice, or maybe Jane Austen. So I repeat: how does a writer learn to write [good] fiction?
My guess is - just write, write your heart out. Read authors whose stories captivate you and try to mimic their style, their formats. Take every class or presentation you can fit in your schedule. Write some more. Have your attempts critiqued. Revise, Revise, Revise. Absorb critical comments and put recommendations to work. Submit to contests and 'friendly' publishers. WRITE. ENJOY!
If your're like me, you were assigned numerous essays and reports, term papers, theses and such during your school years. You may have been required to write fiction pieces in a creative writing class or as part of a special project in your history class. But if you enjoyed the writing assignments, sooner later you found yourself writing for pleasure - even if you were the only person who actually read the material.
My first literary piece was a mystery entitled "The Mystery of the Lost Skull," which I presented to my startled parents when I was nine. I think my mother still has it tucked away with her high school yearbooks, the petrified corsage from her weekend at Harvard, and my sister's first baseball mitt. (I come from a long line of pack rats). I'm descended from a prolific writer of fiction, too, but he died in 1932 so I can't pick his brain to help me hone my writing skills. Hope some of his talent rubbed off on me.
Being an avid reader is helpful if you're an aspiring writer. But the question is: how do those terrific writers do it? How do they grab you? How do they scare you and keep you awake at night or make you cry over obstacles keeping the lovers apart? I want to do that! I want to be Nora Roberts or James Patterson or Stephen King or Anne Rice, or maybe Jane Austen. So I repeat: how does a writer learn to write [good] fiction?
My guess is - just write, write your heart out. Read authors whose stories captivate you and try to mimic their style, their formats. Take every class or presentation you can fit in your schedule. Write some more. Have your attempts critiqued. Revise, Revise, Revise. Absorb critical comments and put recommendations to work. Submit to contests and 'friendly' publishers. WRITE. ENJOY!
Wednesday, May 6, 2009
What book is on your nightstand?
This has been a roller coaster of a month, at first I had a vision malfunction then as the vision slowly returned I had a problem ...I couldn't read print. E-print worked well for me and I enjoyed it, but it wasn't like having a book in my hands. As most of you know at the LCRW meetings there is a basket raffle, which includes a gorgeous basket with goodies and most important books. Proud to say I won this month's basket and how happy I am with the books.
During the workshop Kat talked about Characters and she used JR Ward's Black Dagger Brotherhood Series as an example, and to my great surprise, Dark Lover, the first of the series was in the basket. Also, Rita, a member pointed out it was an awlsome book. Well, I'm sure you see the way this is going, of course that was the first book I read.
Then the inner book whore erupted from me, and between the library and Borders, I have read six out of the seven in the series. The reading frenzy only completely consumed me, up til 1:00 in the morning until I had to force myself to put the book down. My husband nightly saying for the last week as been, "That can't be another one." I plan on getting the Lover Avenged, the newest release for my nightstand, if it makes it there for longer than a night, then I will be happily sedated.
The series is well written, it's a whole new world that makes you want to know more. JR Ward does a wonderful job with the male voice, and her scenes are hot, steamy and fierce. Not only did the book captivated me, but it opened up a whole new aspect to my thought processes on Characterization and Plot. I found myself having AH HA moments. Realizing mistakes I have made in my own work and Ideas of new work to be done. I am a firm believer that reading only makes you a stronger writer, so now with my vision back and my thoughts surging. I must ask each of you... What's on your nightstand? Is it gripping, motivating, relaxing or just bring out your inner book whore?
During the workshop Kat talked about Characters and she used JR Ward's Black Dagger Brotherhood Series as an example, and to my great surprise, Dark Lover, the first of the series was in the basket. Also, Rita, a member pointed out it was an awlsome book. Well, I'm sure you see the way this is going, of course that was the first book I read.
Then the inner book whore erupted from me, and between the library and Borders, I have read six out of the seven in the series. The reading frenzy only completely consumed me, up til 1:00 in the morning until I had to force myself to put the book down. My husband nightly saying for the last week as been, "That can't be another one." I plan on getting the Lover Avenged, the newest release for my nightstand, if it makes it there for longer than a night, then I will be happily sedated.
The series is well written, it's a whole new world that makes you want to know more. JR Ward does a wonderful job with the male voice, and her scenes are hot, steamy and fierce. Not only did the book captivated me, but it opened up a whole new aspect to my thought processes on Characterization and Plot. I found myself having AH HA moments. Realizing mistakes I have made in my own work and Ideas of new work to be done. I am a firm believer that reading only makes you a stronger writer, so now with my vision back and my thoughts surging. I must ask each of you... What's on your nightstand? Is it gripping, motivating, relaxing or just bring out your inner book whore?
Tuesday, May 5, 2009
My blog didn't post
Today was my day to post on the LCRW blog.
And I did--early this morning--with a wailing 8 month-old on my lap.
I wrote up this nice little dealy on hobbies.
Edited it.
Rearranged a few sentences.
Rewrote a few more.
Spell checked it.
And I hit the wrong button.
If you want to see a shortened version of what I really wanted to write [Owen had escalated into the screams only a teething baby can make], check out comments to my empty box.
Peace,
kat
And I did--early this morning--with a wailing 8 month-old on my lap.
I wrote up this nice little dealy on hobbies.
Edited it.
Rearranged a few sentences.
Rewrote a few more.
Spell checked it.
And I hit the wrong button.
If you want to see a shortened version of what I really wanted to write [Owen had escalated into the screams only a teething baby can make], check out comments to my empty box.
Peace,
kat
Monday, May 4, 2009
Hilda and Chuck
I remember Hilda and Chuck! They lived behind our house in Leesburg, Florida. I always thought they did a lot of flitting around, and they tweeted and twittered way before I ever heard of such behavior. That Hilda - every day her new brood of little ones sat there in the nest with their beaks wide open, but she seemed to spend a lot of time gazing at that nighthawk who showed up at dawn. Tsk! Tsk!
Where It All Began
Where it all began . . .
Thirty-some odd years before I put pen to paper, there was Chuck and Hilda,
As a young cosmetology student, I was required to engage the client in conversation. After an awkward attempt at the weather, I turned her attention to the window. Two brown sparrows were hopping about on the second story ledge overlooking Main Street, Bradford, PA.
"That's Chuck and Hilda. They've moved up from Florida and are setting up housekeeping."
In the mirror eyes rolled as I wrapped hair around plastic curlers, but nonetheless, I continued. "Chuck stayed out late last night. Listen to Hilda squawk at him."
Thirty minutes later, returning from the hair dryer, my client asked, "So where was Chuck last night?"
"At that new bird feeder," I told her. "A lot of red-breasted robins hang out there," I lowered my voice. "If you know what I mean."
The chronicles of Chuck and Hilda continued. Like any couple, they had their ups and downs. They raised their babies and moved back south. My clients would come weekly to have their hair styled and to hear the latest saga of Chuck and Hilda. Just tales of normal life, but it made the ladies forget their own troubles for a little while.
Thirty-some years later, I'm writing stories about life and love. Who knew?
Thirty-some odd years before I put pen to paper, there was Chuck and Hilda,
As a young cosmetology student, I was required to engage the client in conversation. After an awkward attempt at the weather, I turned her attention to the window. Two brown sparrows were hopping about on the second story ledge overlooking Main Street, Bradford, PA.
"That's Chuck and Hilda. They've moved up from Florida and are setting up housekeeping."
In the mirror eyes rolled as I wrapped hair around plastic curlers, but nonetheless, I continued. "Chuck stayed out late last night. Listen to Hilda squawk at him."
Thirty minutes later, returning from the hair dryer, my client asked, "So where was Chuck last night?"
"At that new bird feeder," I told her. "A lot of red-breasted robins hang out there," I lowered my voice. "If you know what I mean."
The chronicles of Chuck and Hilda continued. Like any couple, they had their ups and downs. They raised their babies and moved back south. My clients would come weekly to have their hair styled and to hear the latest saga of Chuck and Hilda. Just tales of normal life, but it made the ladies forget their own troubles for a little while.
Thirty-some years later, I'm writing stories about life and love. Who knew?
Saturday, May 2, 2009
Dee's idea on sending a character to a doctor
What a fabulous idea!!!
Hmm. What could I give Kiernan Rossi, my current hero?
Shall I make the doctor a female?
Better yet, should I make the "doctor" a male nurse with a Masters degree who can diagnose and prescribe meds and such?
If we want to know our characters really well, lets send them to confession!!
Woo hoo!!!
thanks, Dee, for making me think.
Kat
Hmm. What could I give Kiernan Rossi, my current hero?
Shall I make the doctor a female?
Better yet, should I make the "doctor" a male nurse with a Masters degree who can diagnose and prescribe meds and such?
If we want to know our characters really well, lets send them to confession!!
Woo hoo!!!
thanks, Dee, for making me think.
Kat
Friday, May 1, 2009
rememberences
First of all I want to say how glad I am to have rejoined the group. This is a professional organization and one I am proud to be a member of. In the current time of belt tightening I consider my membership as an investment. As we are all writers we are mostly loners. Yet we carry our characters in our minds, thus never truly alone.
In the last meeting it was suggested that we do a profile of our characters. To me a simple profile is not enough. First note physical appearnace, any physical disablity, manner of walking, manner of speach. Then pretend your character is a member of a dating service and is trying to find a mate. What would the request be?
Then have the character apply for a job. What would the experiences be?
And finally have the character visit his/her doctor. What would the complaint be and how would the patient handle it?
Of course no one character should impart all this information in a book, but it gives the writer a formula of sorts to know the under laying factors of the character's behaviors.
Does any one in the group have another method of knowing the hero and heroine more completely? What works for me might not for you. To me that is the greatest thing about writing, there is no wrong way, simply what works or not.
Feel free to jump in throughout the day and make any comments you wish. Any questions? Throw them at me. Enjoy this beautiful day. I think maybe Spring has sprung.
In the last meeting it was suggested that we do a profile of our characters. To me a simple profile is not enough. First note physical appearnace, any physical disablity, manner of walking, manner of speach. Then pretend your character is a member of a dating service and is trying to find a mate. What would the request be?
Then have the character apply for a job. What would the experiences be?
And finally have the character visit his/her doctor. What would the complaint be and how would the patient handle it?
Of course no one character should impart all this information in a book, but it gives the writer a formula of sorts to know the under laying factors of the character's behaviors.
Does any one in the group have another method of knowing the hero and heroine more completely? What works for me might not for you. To me that is the greatest thing about writing, there is no wrong way, simply what works or not.
Feel free to jump in throughout the day and make any comments you wish. Any questions? Throw them at me. Enjoy this beautiful day. I think maybe Spring has sprung.
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