Why I Chose Publishing Without an Agent
Literary agents play an essential role in the world of publishing, providing a bridge between authors and publishing houses. I have all the respect in the world for the talented literary agents who turn writers’ dreams into tangible realities. But, while they have proven to be indispensable for many, there are instances where authors choose […]
Will My Prose Age Like Vintage Liquor?
At the end of each year, I evaluate my growth as a writer. I have an unquenchable desire to refine my craft, to make my words flow with more grace, and to articulate my thoughts with clarity and purpose. The rhythm and meter of prose have become like vital bodily functions. Yet, I still stumble […]
Skill, Talent, and Passion in Writing
I was taught to believe that by being an active reader, you can become a far better writer. While that is certainly true, it’s only one major component to becoming a “formidable writing professional.” Of course, the most important part to being a good writer is simply pursuing the act of writing as often as […]
Just When You Think You Can’t Fill a Page
It’s been said many times that the blank page is like a canvas. Frankly, a blank page is much more like a desert. It can be the most dreaded thing for any writer to face, being vast, empty, and seemingly infinite. Ironically, it’s what a writer faces all the time. When you set yourself to […]
Why You Should Be Writing Down Your Random Thoughts That Make No Sense
Writing down your random thoughts is like rolling dice in the dark. You don’t know what number will come up, but you do know you’ll probably trip over the coffee table in the process. But, I have to say, no thoughts are truly random. The human brain is often like a crowded intersection at rush […]
How and When Prewriting is Useful for Your Writing
For me, prewriting has always been a bit of an ironic term. After all, this preparation involves writing things down. I’ve rarely ever done it in the traditional sense, as I prefer to simply write a first draft. But despite its confusing etymology, the process is helpful for some writers. So, how and when is […]
Motion in Writing
A writer must always be in motion, just as we all should be. This motion should always be clear in our writing, reflecting our soul constantly reinventing itself on the fly. It’s important for us as writers to never stay still for long. We must go out of our way to be out of our […]
Once You Choose Your Online Niche, Can You Change It Later?
They say when you start writing online, you’ve got to pick your poison right away. You might think I mean to say “niche,” but in this case “poison” is the most apt synonym. Anyway, you can’t just slap together a few words on a topic. No, you must become the self-appointed expert on a subject […]
Turnkey Phrases
I’m on a never-ending quest for turnkey phrases—magical combinations of words that drive themselves relentlessly towards unique expressions of ideas and memories. Once assembled, they’ll propel themselves forward like an unstoppable freight train, hellbent on smashing writer’s block, becoming my guiding light into the elusive territory of original expression. Every time I think I’ve found […]