What to Keep When You Cut

It’s extremely difficult to ascertain this information from reading a book because it’ll be blended into the finished story. It’s also a crushing blow to the junior writer when they fall into this invisible pitfall only realized long after the cuts are made. Then they have to scour distant memories for the little bits they … Continue reading What to Keep When You Cut →

What to Cut When Editing Your Story

“Everything that doesn’t advance the plot or reveal characterization.” Now to pat myself on the back and throw my laptop in front of a train. I never liked this shallow advice — as factual and aggravating as it is. Its distillation leaves out nuances in the determination. What’s the proportional focus of your story’s plot … Continue reading What to Cut When Editing Your Story →

Adding Your Interests to Your Writing

Intentional or osmosis, plots to fine details, your interests, hobbies, areas of academic study, and every aspect of your life shape your story. Unavoidable, it must be handled with care to gain maximum impact while acknowledging the common pitfalls. I’m writing a long piece about an army officer which is influenced by my interest in … Continue reading Adding Your Interests to Your Writing →

How to Take Writing Advice

I’ve picked back up Steven King’s On Writing after a long hiatus and slipped into several trappings I incur when taking advice. I placed a filter between myself and the words on the page, the same I use whenever I read any book to the detriment of my enjoyment. I say to myself, “I did … Continue reading How to Take Writing Advice →