I completed the first draft of my novel, Sins of Omission, two days ago -- 74,000 words across sixteen chapters. Now the real work begins. As many a teacher will tell you (less politely), the first draft is drek. My first four pages already look as though a chicken stepped across it after wading in blood. That's okay. It's… Continue reading First draft finished; now the work begins
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The value of critiquing the work of others
My writer's club holds one meeting a month devoted to critiquing the work of fellow members. The process is good for the writer, of course, but it's also valuable for those who participate. During this week's meeting, a writer submitted four chapters, one of which was a long internal dialogue. Along with several others, I… Continue reading The value of critiquing the work of others
I get my best ideas while walking
As I explained in an earlier post, I do my best writing in the early morning. When I'm finished, I put it aside and do something else until the following morning. I walk two miles each day, weather permitting. Since beginning my novel, I've found that this daily forty minute constitutional gives me ideas that… Continue reading I get my best ideas while walking
To read or not to read
Years ago, I interviewed Dr. Frank Slaughter, prolific writer of medical and historical fiction. I asked him what he read for personal enjoyment. His response: "Nothing, when I'm writing. I don't want anything else to influence me." I've since talked to authors who advise, "If you want to write, read," their point being that other… Continue reading To read or not to read
When to write?
Writing coaches advise aspiring authors to develop a regular work habit, a routine that ensures that there is time set aside each day for writing. Stephen King claims that he writes every day except Christmas and his birthday, to which a friend replied that King was lying, that he writes on Christmas and his birthday… Continue reading When to write?
Scrivener
A few years ago when I was still consulting, I discovered a writing program called Scrivener. It was then available only on the Mac operating system, but has since been ported to Windows. I used it to develop complex client reports and, as I began working on my forthcoming novel, wrapped it around me. Scrivener… Continue reading Scrivener
The Journey Begins
Thanks for joining me! Good company in a journey makes the way seem shorter. — Izaak Walton
