What to Say When You Have Nothing Nice to Say
For writers, sharing an opinion about another person’s finished or published work can be complicated—especially when your reaction is negative.…
Take Yourself Seriously—and Don’t Take Yourself Too Seriously
Authors are so good—and so bad!—at taking ourselves seriously. On the one hand, we are Making Art, that noblest of…
The “Smart Dog” Fallacy: Why You Don’t Need to Master Every Part of Writing
Writing isn’t one skill. It’s a collection of skills—character, dialogue, description, structure, pacing, voice, plot, point of view, tension, scene-setting,…
Add Meaning and Impact to Your Stories with Stealth Context
Good storytelling gives readers the context they need without making them stop to process an explanation. Learn how to weave…
On Grapes and Raisins and Wine
It’s so easy to get hung up on the sorrows and struggles and frustrations and failures of a creative career:…
Breaking Up with Your Story
Not every story is meant to be finished. Learn how writers can recognize when a difficult draft simply needs more…
Before You DNF: The Case for Finishing a Book That Doesn’t Immediately Grab You
Should writers finish books they don’t immediately love? Here’s why reading past the urge to DNF can make you a…
Arguing with AI—Beware of Seduction and Lies
How reliable is AI for research and writing, and how can writers avoid misinformation from AI when it can be…
How to Create a Writing Community (and Why You Must)
Building a writing community can help writers overcome isolation, stay accountable, improve their craft, find feedback, and create meaningful professional…
When Writing Feedback Feels Personal
Receiving tough feedback on your story can sting, but if the editorial insights are good, sometimes the hardest feedback to…
Does Your Character Really Want What They Think They Want?
A character’s stated goal isn’t always what truly drives them. False wants and hidden or unconscious desires can shape richer…
Be Honest with Yourself: Auditing Your Writing Habits
Most writers already know, on some level, why they aren’t making the progress they want. Maybe too much time is…