Writing
Thoughts on Passion
It’s a popular perception of writers, based at least a bit in reality, that we tend toward the eccentric. Maybe even a little obsessive. We’re known for things like keeping odd hours and stashing pens and paper in the car or on the nightstand; for saying things like “That’d make a great story,” or “I…
The Self-Importance of Love
writing is like parenting, then writing well is first not about the writing so much as it is about you, yourself and the changes it will bring to you. It was raining. The misty kind so common in spring in Seattle. What I remember most are the flowers. Orange, red, and white setting the broad,…
Writing is Editing
Writing is editing. You accept that. But do you love it? Well, do you? You’re staring. Am I serious? Love editing? How can I love that? If you want to continue as an author, it’s time you learned. It surprises me how many people only think of editing as a career. Editing isn’t merely grammar and…
When You Just Don't Fit the Market
I’ve never felt like I fit. Growing up in the 70s and 80s on Long Island, New York, I didn’t know anyone whose parents (or grandparents) were divorced except mine. I didn’t know any other kids who had to visit their dad on the weekend instead of doing fun stuff with friends. And I didn’t…
Should You Be Writing?
“All initiative to write is not inspired.”This is my thought reading February 16th in My Utmost for His Highest. “Arise from the dead,” Chambers quotes (Ephesians 5:14) and then uses it to draw a distinction between divine and human initiative. I sense a key here, another connection to the journey of authorship. And I want this wisdom…
To Sleep or Write?
by Tanya Dennis The kids are finally asleep. I just kicked off a second load of laundry, straightened the living room (for the fourteenth time today) and cleaned the bathroom. Exhausted, I ignored the dirty dishes in the sink. It’s 9:27 PM, but it feels like 11. I should write. I should work on that…
Where Do You Get Your Ideas?
Guest Post “Where do you get your ideas?” Why is this seemingly innocent question so often cited as the most annoying to creative people? As the first question to come to mind, it is over-asked and comes out sounding thoughtless, both of which are enough to make it bothersome. Beyond that, questions about ideas are…
Finding Your Writing Voice
by Mick Silva It may not seem so, but in their early days, all authors were builders. Much as we might like to believe someone could slap down a suitcase of money to buy that beautiful mansion, it doesn’t work that way. No one moves into a house they didn’t build. Of course, everyone tries…
Getting the Words Right
Ernest Hemingway famously said that the problem with completing his classic novel A Farewell to Arms was “getting the words right.” The sentiment resonates with every writer once in a while. Sometimes the words don’t come. The blank page mocks. The perfect phrase dances away, teasing and frustrating from the edge of consciousness. Creativity feels,…
Need Stress Relief? Look Up!
My grandkids and I have been busy with all kinds of science fun this month – from one grandchild’s science fair projects to another’s computer lessons that are part of his Christian home schooling program. Much of it has been fun. Working with them as much as I do, I often learn new things myself…