Practice writing.
Love writing and have a difficult time knowing what to write? The more you practice writing the more capable you will be of conquering this problem, this basic exercise can sometimes help when you simply suffer from writers block.
This practice doesn't have to be very long or too difficult. The subject is very simple. Look away from your writing device whether it is a writing tablet, PC or old style typewriter and the first thing your eyes land on write about that.
Example: First thing I see is my coffee cup.
Written example: "Looking back at me wondering if it had worn out its use or if it would be passed on yet again, think of all the hands that have handled it to this point. It's hard not to think about the very first person who actually touched me, the one who created me and placed me in my packaging. She was quiet and tried to keep to her work always worried what others might be thinking of her."
Personally I can create a whole story out of this however the point is to get you thinking, writing and most importantly looking at everything around you as a possible beginning or even an ending to a great story.
Sunday, January 11, 2015
Established authors make mistakes to
Do established authors still make the same mistakes they did when they first started?
Not to be discouraging however at times yes they do. Experience does not make anyone immune to mistakes and it's perfectly natural to make them. I've found books from well-known authors to have mistakes in them when they are in bookstores. This is when a good copy-editor or a basic editor makes a world of difference with your writing.
If you learned the wrong way the first time it is hard to break that habit and can stick with you for a life time however knowing this will always help you know what to look for when going back over your written work.
When you're typing or editing fast it is easy to miss some mistakes. It's easy to be thinking of a word and look back realizing the sentence is there while it's either missing the sentiment you were hoping for or simply one word is missing. Oddly enough a common mistake is with typing fast. Instead of writing the word 'who' the word 'how' or 'where' versus 'were' is in its place.
In basic daily life we make mistakes that we know how we should have done something or wished we had done it differently. This is the same with writing. An author may have gained much experience over the years with writing however they are still learning to find craft their skills. Some still have editors; after all it is harder to edit your own stories. Stephen King has to send his off to an editor or he will keep re-writing it until it's no longer what the story was originally intending.
It's always a good idea to read over what you have written to make sure its properly spelled, your thought is getting put across or simply understood and effective. Always have fun and enjoy writing your book, this comes across in your writing and if you do not enjoy what you are doing then then take a break and come back to it. Sometimes this can be a year or even an hour.
Not to be discouraging however at times yes they do. Experience does not make anyone immune to mistakes and it's perfectly natural to make them. I've found books from well-known authors to have mistakes in them when they are in bookstores. This is when a good copy-editor or a basic editor makes a world of difference with your writing.
If you learned the wrong way the first time it is hard to break that habit and can stick with you for a life time however knowing this will always help you know what to look for when going back over your written work.
When you're typing or editing fast it is easy to miss some mistakes. It's easy to be thinking of a word and look back realizing the sentence is there while it's either missing the sentiment you were hoping for or simply one word is missing. Oddly enough a common mistake is with typing fast. Instead of writing the word 'who' the word 'how' or 'where' versus 'were' is in its place.
In basic daily life we make mistakes that we know how we should have done something or wished we had done it differently. This is the same with writing. An author may have gained much experience over the years with writing however they are still learning to find craft their skills. Some still have editors; after all it is harder to edit your own stories. Stephen King has to send his off to an editor or he will keep re-writing it until it's no longer what the story was originally intending.
It's always a good idea to read over what you have written to make sure its properly spelled, your thought is getting put across or simply understood and effective. Always have fun and enjoy writing your book, this comes across in your writing and if you do not enjoy what you are doing then then take a break and come back to it. Sometimes this can be a year or even an hour.
How well do you know your novels characters?
Q: Towards the end of the chapter I realized my character made choices based on her personality would never make. If I change it then the ending will change also and it would change the entirety to the second book. Should I make changes or leave it as is?
A: Depending on the choices your having your character make, he/ she might be forced into making a decision they normally would not make. Having the outcome change might not be a bad thing depending on how it changes and why. There are many writers who will re-write an entire novel because something doesn't fit or feel right about it. There is nothing wrong with doing this. Take your time to make sure you feel comfortable with your ending. Make sure to make all the changes you want now because once its put out there for readers and they see it constantly being changed, especially for story-line then this will not appear very professional.
A: Depending on the choices your having your character make, he/ she might be forced into making a decision they normally would not make. Having the outcome change might not be a bad thing depending on how it changes and why. There are many writers who will re-write an entire novel because something doesn't fit or feel right about it. There is nothing wrong with doing this. Take your time to make sure you feel comfortable with your ending. Make sure to make all the changes you want now because once its put out there for readers and they see it constantly being changed, especially for story-line then this will not appear very professional.
What is your writing style?
There is a reason we refer to writers as having their own 'style' of writing. As long as story flow is easy to follow along with and no errors, story makes sense and proper spelling then you're good to use a different style then other writers. Some writers are very wordy and many will complain about this. There are readers out there that like that and will purchase it. There are people who think vampires should be unable to control their thirst for blood or they should not be sparkly. Some readers have proven they like variety and will read these books. The way you write about your characters, setting scenes, emotions or simply the form you put the words into.
The whole writing rules of do this and don't do that and never in a millions years mention this in your book. Throw the rules out and simply write your story. In truth, there are no rules to writing other than making sure someone can understand the idea you are getting across. It helps if the story is entertaining in some way to keep their attention. It helps not having a story be only depressing, add something funny or at least something positive in there at some point. There will be some genres that have larger readerships; it's simply a matter of finding the ones who read your style of writing. If you go according to all the writing rules floating around on the internet then you will never be able to write. Have fun with your writing and make sure it's something you're enjoying.
It's along the same lines of buying gifts. The ones people generally like are those we would want ourselves. First make sure you enjoy it and simply make it available and find those others out there are also interested in it. Don't expect to be an overnight sensation, it can take many years to be known and for those who are fortunate to have certain connections not to waste them.
I don't know about you but personally I know I would get tired of books if they were all the same and stuck to the same rules of writing. I would lose interest in the characters. I want a reason for reading about them. Why did you write about them and why should they interest me? Other than that enjoy your writing.
The whole writing rules of do this and don't do that and never in a millions years mention this in your book. Throw the rules out and simply write your story. In truth, there are no rules to writing other than making sure someone can understand the idea you are getting across. It helps if the story is entertaining in some way to keep their attention. It helps not having a story be only depressing, add something funny or at least something positive in there at some point. There will be some genres that have larger readerships; it's simply a matter of finding the ones who read your style of writing. If you go according to all the writing rules floating around on the internet then you will never be able to write. Have fun with your writing and make sure it's something you're enjoying.
It's along the same lines of buying gifts. The ones people generally like are those we would want ourselves. First make sure you enjoy it and simply make it available and find those others out there are also interested in it. Don't expect to be an overnight sensation, it can take many years to be known and for those who are fortunate to have certain connections not to waste them.
I don't know about you but personally I know I would get tired of books if they were all the same and stuck to the same rules of writing. I would lose interest in the characters. I want a reason for reading about them. Why did you write about them and why should they interest me? Other than that enjoy your writing.
Creating a perfect name for your characters
Creating a name for your character can be a difficult task. We've heard people who are attached to their characters, know their strengths, weakness, likes and dislikes. Who they get alone with and who they might hate. All the way down to their favorite food however many have a problem sticking to one name for them.
Some use name generators while others look through family history to find a name and some simply are able to make a name off the top of their head.
We like to think of naming a character the same way you would name your child. Think of their personality and how you feel about them. There is nothing wrong if you need to use a baby naming book, there are many of those online to browse through especially if you feel connected to a certain letter or sound. Personally I've looked through history books to see what names have been used during certain time periods or I will simply go with what feels good and I picture this person in my mind and calling them by it.
Some use name generators while others look through family history to find a name and some simply are able to make a name off the top of their head.
We like to think of naming a character the same way you would name your child. Think of their personality and how you feel about them. There is nothing wrong if you need to use a baby naming book, there are many of those online to browse through especially if you feel connected to a certain letter or sound. Personally I've looked through history books to see what names have been used during certain time periods or I will simply go with what feels good and I picture this person in my mind and calling them by it.
What do you think of blogs?
Q: "I hate the term "blogging" do I really need to do it and write about my feelings and things? I'm friendly but I can't just sit there and chat about nothing and I don't really want to say what I ate for the day."
A: If you choose to blog there is generally a reason for it. With writing it helps the author talk about their book, story-line, characters and other aspects of the book. It also helps the reader get to know the author, what inspired them to write the book and what to look forward to. Blogging never has to be boring and certainly never has to deal with what you ate for the day unless your a chef and then it wouldn't be a bad idea.
Perhaps a way of not seeing it as blogging you could always name it your journal or thoughts of interest page and possibly this would appeal more to yourself and others who read your page. Take into account why you have the page and what your goal is with it. It does help to keep it active, at least visit the page every so often or put updates to keep readers interested. You could always have friends help out only make sure they know what sort of content you want to see on it, make sure if you post anything like pictures, music or writing that is not yours that you give credit to who owns it and that you have permission from them to use it or you will open yourself up to law suits. We wish you the best of luck!
A: If you choose to blog there is generally a reason for it. With writing it helps the author talk about their book, story-line, characters and other aspects of the book. It also helps the reader get to know the author, what inspired them to write the book and what to look forward to. Blogging never has to be boring and certainly never has to deal with what you ate for the day unless your a chef and then it wouldn't be a bad idea.
Perhaps a way of not seeing it as blogging you could always name it your journal or thoughts of interest page and possibly this would appeal more to yourself and others who read your page. Take into account why you have the page and what your goal is with it. It does help to keep it active, at least visit the page every so often or put updates to keep readers interested. You could always have friends help out only make sure they know what sort of content you want to see on it, make sure if you post anything like pictures, music or writing that is not yours that you give credit to who owns it and that you have permission from them to use it or you will open yourself up to law suits. We wish you the best of luck!
Are writers insecure.
Why would a writer be insecure about their writing?
There are many reasons and this can relate to several different fields. One common one is that we are attached to our own writing however we can feel nervous wondering if anyone else likes it. A writer can know their story is good but they do not know how the public will receive it.
Another reason for being nervous is the genre they write in. Some might not know they prefer writing about other worlds, magical beings or even adult themes. This could make a person nervous sharing something so personal and intimate with others. They could be nervous to see how friends, family or the public will think of the way they write about these topics.
Musicians get insecure when they hear someone who has been playing longer than them showing they have more experience.
Actors/ actresses, singers, writers, doctors, nurses, teachers and several other professions might feel insecure. They may know their craft well and feel confidant doing it however when they have those they respect the opinions of or simply do not know how they will be accepted, this can create an insecurity especially if they know of a personal flaw and are worried it might be exposed making them feel they have less worthy of their field.
For the longest time the genre romance has been dominated by women and men who write romance might worry they won't be accepted
Some feel insecure because they feel someone might think they are not intelligent, this is actually a popular fear among many well established people. An education is important and is certainly not a waste on anyone however if you do not have an associates, bachelors or higher that doesn't make you less qualified.
There are far more reasons than we are listing that make people feel insecure however think about what is making you insecure and what you can do to conquer it. Feeling insecure is no different than having a fear and working past it.
Don't let an insecurity keep you from doing what you love. There will always be critics and it's important to be aware that some will give you an honest review, some will simply state something out of jealousy and others actually won't like what you do. There are so many different people out there that enjoy various genres so it’s a matter of finding the group who is interested in your work. Feelings of insecurities will pop up but remember to tell yourself you're worth it and keep working hard at making yourself and your craft better.
There are many reasons and this can relate to several different fields. One common one is that we are attached to our own writing however we can feel nervous wondering if anyone else likes it. A writer can know their story is good but they do not know how the public will receive it.
Another reason for being nervous is the genre they write in. Some might not know they prefer writing about other worlds, magical beings or even adult themes. This could make a person nervous sharing something so personal and intimate with others. They could be nervous to see how friends, family or the public will think of the way they write about these topics.
Musicians get insecure when they hear someone who has been playing longer than them showing they have more experience.
Actors/ actresses, singers, writers, doctors, nurses, teachers and several other professions might feel insecure. They may know their craft well and feel confidant doing it however when they have those they respect the opinions of or simply do not know how they will be accepted, this can create an insecurity especially if they know of a personal flaw and are worried it might be exposed making them feel they have less worthy of their field.
For the longest time the genre romance has been dominated by women and men who write romance might worry they won't be accepted
Some feel insecure because they feel someone might think they are not intelligent, this is actually a popular fear among many well established people. An education is important and is certainly not a waste on anyone however if you do not have an associates, bachelors or higher that doesn't make you less qualified.
There are far more reasons than we are listing that make people feel insecure however think about what is making you insecure and what you can do to conquer it. Feeling insecure is no different than having a fear and working past it.
Don't let an insecurity keep you from doing what you love. There will always be critics and it's important to be aware that some will give you an honest review, some will simply state something out of jealousy and others actually won't like what you do. There are so many different people out there that enjoy various genres so it’s a matter of finding the group who is interested in your work. Feelings of insecurities will pop up but remember to tell yourself you're worth it and keep working hard at making yourself and your craft better.
Should you give a negative review
Q: What is the best way of giving a bad review? I was asked by a close friend to leave a review for her book except if I leave one it won't be good. If I left this for anyone else it would have been negative so how do I leave one for her without hurting her feelings?
A: Writing a review for someone you know isn't always easy.
Although it does help an author to have a review left however the main point of the review is to help other possible readers to decide if they want to read the book. If there are problems with grammar, punctuation or run on sentences or perhaps story line clarity you would want to discuss this with your friend so that she can edit her book and re-submit it.
Think if your 'negative' comment will help future readers or not? Is it because it's not your style of writing or genre? Perhaps an outcome you would not have liked? Try and find something you enjoyed about the book, what you thought about the characters, story-line, setting or who you think the book might be a good fit. Think about why you would leave a negative comment, does it have anything to do with the story or how it is physically written. If it’s the physical condition of the book then leave that part out. A reviewer will review the story and not shipping, cost or condition of the book.
If you still feel like it might be negative and you are truly a helpful friend of this person find a tactful way of explaining what your review would say and possibly work together to either improve the book or understand better for your reasoning in reviewing it in a certain way.
A: Writing a review for someone you know isn't always easy.
Although it does help an author to have a review left however the main point of the review is to help other possible readers to decide if they want to read the book. If there are problems with grammar, punctuation or run on sentences or perhaps story line clarity you would want to discuss this with your friend so that she can edit her book and re-submit it.
Think if your 'negative' comment will help future readers or not? Is it because it's not your style of writing or genre? Perhaps an outcome you would not have liked? Try and find something you enjoyed about the book, what you thought about the characters, story-line, setting or who you think the book might be a good fit. Think about why you would leave a negative comment, does it have anything to do with the story or how it is physically written. If it’s the physical condition of the book then leave that part out. A reviewer will review the story and not shipping, cost or condition of the book.
If you still feel like it might be negative and you are truly a helpful friend of this person find a tactful way of explaining what your review would say and possibly work together to either improve the book or understand better for your reasoning in reviewing it in a certain way.
Should all editors be the same
Q: Shouldn't all experienced editors be the same?
A: Each editor will be completely different even when comparing experienced editors. Depending on what they are editing the outcome will be completely different. If they are editing for an academic purpose it will be different then what they would do for a manuscript because they will miss incredibly important issues to commercial publishers. The way academic editors assess manuscripts are from a very different viewpoint then that of commercial publishers. That's why many books that are on the top sellers list or massively successful will be criticized by the academic community however they are still seen on the best seller list.
Many editors have their own perspective as to how something can be done and most of the time when it's coming from a publisher it is because they have time tested principles that help a manuscript become strong and more appealing. These subjective tastes are based on years of experience and knowing what will or won't work in a book. It's not that they have missed errors however personal opinion by many will determine the proper outcome and for what avenue that the end product is being assessed for.
A: Each editor will be completely different even when comparing experienced editors. Depending on what they are editing the outcome will be completely different. If they are editing for an academic purpose it will be different then what they would do for a manuscript because they will miss incredibly important issues to commercial publishers. The way academic editors assess manuscripts are from a very different viewpoint then that of commercial publishers. That's why many books that are on the top sellers list or massively successful will be criticized by the academic community however they are still seen on the best seller list.
Many editors have their own perspective as to how something can be done and most of the time when it's coming from a publisher it is because they have time tested principles that help a manuscript become strong and more appealing. These subjective tastes are based on years of experience and knowing what will or won't work in a book. It's not that they have missed errors however personal opinion by many will determine the proper outcome and for what avenue that the end product is being assessed for.
Self Published vs Traditional published
We’ve heard from many self-published and traditional published authors who have complained about their first novel. That they were not very happy with them as they are with later novels.
There are several reasons for this. First reason is that the first novel gets rushed. Either the person is hoping to be published by a certain age or year. It’s more important to give your novel attention rather than rush it and regret it later. Your first novel will affect how others react to others you later publish.
A second reason is that your writing skill will improve over time and so will the stories you write and imagine. The best thing you can do is give yourself time and polish your novel so that you can be proud of it and not look back and be disappointed in it. You don’t want your readers to be disappointed with it; after all they are not waiting for your second book to come out to have improved. If they don’t like the first one they won’t read the second book.
Whether you have given yourself a time limit or treating your first book as a learning experience, you need to take time with your novel and learn before making your book available to the public.
Publishing your best work should be your goal, not just getting published. This is your reputation that you are putting out there; your writing is a reflection of you. Why have your writing career ended before it really begins because you didn't take pride in your work.
There are several reasons for this. First reason is that the first novel gets rushed. Either the person is hoping to be published by a certain age or year. It’s more important to give your novel attention rather than rush it and regret it later. Your first novel will affect how others react to others you later publish.
A second reason is that your writing skill will improve over time and so will the stories you write and imagine. The best thing you can do is give yourself time and polish your novel so that you can be proud of it and not look back and be disappointed in it. You don’t want your readers to be disappointed with it; after all they are not waiting for your second book to come out to have improved. If they don’t like the first one they won’t read the second book.
Whether you have given yourself a time limit or treating your first book as a learning experience, you need to take time with your novel and learn before making your book available to the public.
Publishing your best work should be your goal, not just getting published. This is your reputation that you are putting out there; your writing is a reflection of you. Why have your writing career ended before it really begins because you didn't take pride in your work.
Dealing with writers block
There are many ways to deal with writers block. Some have it worse than others and there are some who simply never have a problem with it. If you are having problems it simply means you need to find out why you’re blocked and change it.
If you’re stuck or having a mental block then think about how the character your writing about would handle the situation or how would your favorite author write it. It helps to look at it from another perspective. You could even skip that part and write another scene and come back to that part later.
Are you getting enough sleep, distracted or perhaps putting too much pressure on yourself? Even if it’s not writing in the story you want, starting another one even if it’s a short story can sometimes help break you out of the block. You might clear your mind enough to get ideas to go back to the original story or perhaps you simply need to leave it for a while and do something else and come back to it later.
Lack of sleep, depression or even stress can block a writer. Don’t be hard on yourself and simply take a step back and relax. Read a book or get more involved with the characters in the book, think of what personalities they would have or what they would be like if they worked with you or if they went hiking. Put them in natural environments, sometimes this has helped writers get into the swing of things.
If you’re stuck or having a mental block then think about how the character your writing about would handle the situation or how would your favorite author write it. It helps to look at it from another perspective. You could even skip that part and write another scene and come back to that part later.
Are you getting enough sleep, distracted or perhaps putting too much pressure on yourself? Even if it’s not writing in the story you want, starting another one even if it’s a short story can sometimes help break you out of the block. You might clear your mind enough to get ideas to go back to the original story or perhaps you simply need to leave it for a while and do something else and come back to it later.
Lack of sleep, depression or even stress can block a writer. Don’t be hard on yourself and simply take a step back and relax. Read a book or get more involved with the characters in the book, think of what personalities they would have or what they would be like if they worked with you or if they went hiking. Put them in natural environments, sometimes this has helped writers get into the swing of things.
Emulating writing style
Q: I love the way one of my favorite authors writes but I find it hard to do the same. How can I improve on my writing to be more like theirs?
A: First and foremost, your favorite author has their own writing style and it’s important to find your own writing style. It’s not a bad idea to learn from how others write or even if there are certain habits they do that help their writing. It's the same reason that many writers love to read, its not only entertaining it's the best way to learn how to format your writing. It is important to develop your own writing habits. If your reader wanted a book written similar to the other author then they will pick a book by that person. Someday someone will look at your writing and wonder how they can write the way you do.
A: First and foremost, your favorite author has their own writing style and it’s important to find your own writing style. It’s not a bad idea to learn from how others write or even if there are certain habits they do that help their writing. It's the same reason that many writers love to read, its not only entertaining it's the best way to learn how to format your writing. It is important to develop your own writing habits. If your reader wanted a book written similar to the other author then they will pick a book by that person. Someday someone will look at your writing and wonder how they can write the way you do.
Feedback for authors
Q: Does negative feedback ever help or hurt an author?
A: It would depend on the negative feedback. You have the obvious “Troll” that is out there who simply leaves negative comments just for the sake of being rude or mean. These comments should simply not be taken seriously either by the author or reader. Most you can tell when you read the comment itself.
Some negative feedback gives the author an idea as to why the person hadn’t liked something and in some cases they simply did not understand/ comprehend what they were reading, wasn’t their taste or style or in some cases there might be something that actually needs to be corrected either in the editing, explanation of a situation or another area of the book. When it is constructive it can actually help and when written and left this way any future reader will be able to discern this.
It’s why it helps to be accurate or be descriptive when leaving a comment because what might be a problem to one reader won’t be to another.
A: It would depend on the negative feedback. You have the obvious “Troll” that is out there who simply leaves negative comments just for the sake of being rude or mean. These comments should simply not be taken seriously either by the author or reader. Most you can tell when you read the comment itself.
Some negative feedback gives the author an idea as to why the person hadn’t liked something and in some cases they simply did not understand/ comprehend what they were reading, wasn’t their taste or style or in some cases there might be something that actually needs to be corrected either in the editing, explanation of a situation or another area of the book. When it is constructive it can actually help and when written and left this way any future reader will be able to discern this.
It’s why it helps to be accurate or be descriptive when leaving a comment because what might be a problem to one reader won’t be to another.
Writing and use of others work
Q: I really want to use lyrics from this song in my novel, how can I use it legally without having to pay for it?
A: Think about this. You’ve spent your time, energy and creative thoughts. Money has been spent on an editor, cover artist, formatting your book to perfection. Why not write your own lyrics without using someone else’s hard work?
You’ve written your own story, it’s much better for you to write your own words. Someone else’s work might inspire you but you should write your own. Would you like someone using your writing without paying you for it? Or for someone to claim it as their own when you were the one writing it?
If your using exerts for teaching/ educational purposes that are not commercial then you can use it but you will also want to give credit where credit is due. Some things can be used in a parody format however why would you ever expect something of someone else that you wouldn’t for yourself? Using someone’s work without permission is incredibly disrespectful for your fellow creative.
Plain and simple. It’s illegal. Some might not bother with smaller books however many will and it is grounds for a lawsuit. It’s better to protect yourself legally and get permission.
A: Think about this. You’ve spent your time, energy and creative thoughts. Money has been spent on an editor, cover artist, formatting your book to perfection. Why not write your own lyrics without using someone else’s hard work?
You’ve written your own story, it’s much better for you to write your own words. Someone else’s work might inspire you but you should write your own. Would you like someone using your writing without paying you for it? Or for someone to claim it as their own when you were the one writing it?
If your using exerts for teaching/ educational purposes that are not commercial then you can use it but you will also want to give credit where credit is due. Some things can be used in a parody format however why would you ever expect something of someone else that you wouldn’t for yourself? Using someone’s work without permission is incredibly disrespectful for your fellow creative.
Plain and simple. It’s illegal. Some might not bother with smaller books however many will and it is grounds for a lawsuit. It’s better to protect yourself legally and get permission.
Leaving your novel in a will
Q: Should I leave my book series to someone in my will? It’s not as if I plan on dying any time soon however I am curious what would happen to my books when I die?
A: it never hurts to plan ahead. We hope nothing happens to you however if you were to die or be incapable of making your own choices then you can always have it listed in your will what you want done. It does help to let your publisher know what you want done. Either to pull your book, to continue to publish, who receives your royalties? Do you want someone to finish a series you were working and who exactly that person will be
A: it never hurts to plan ahead. We hope nothing happens to you however if you were to die or be incapable of making your own choices then you can always have it listed in your will what you want done. It does help to let your publisher know what you want done. Either to pull your book, to continue to publish, who receives your royalties? Do you want someone to finish a series you were working and who exactly that person will be
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