Writing rules tend to make newbies break out in hives. They, as I once did, believe that the word ‘rules’ automatically implies creativity is somehow stymies and the art will not flow. WRONG.
Tag: writing rules
Aug 02 2016
Is Perfectionism Killing Your Success?
Last time I wrote about stress and how it can kill creativity. Many “normal” people (code for “non writers”) see our job as play, as fun. They really don’t grasp what goes into creating the stories they all enjoy and that it is a lot of work. Also, because our field is so subjective, writers …
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Aug 13 2015
What Went Wrong with Season 2 of "True Detective"? Cautionary Lessons for Writers
Most of the time, I try to use great writing as examples of what TO DO. But, some writing fails so epically, the best use of it is as a cautionary tale for other writers. We can use it to study what NOT to do. True Detective Season Two does just that. I hate writing …
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Apr 29 2014
Pirate Codes & Writing Rules—When is a Flashback a Literary Device?
If I give you guys the BASICS and explain WHY editors, agents and readers almost always dislike flashbacks, you know what is distressing about a flashback so you can avoid the pitfalls if you choose to employ a flashback.
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Apr 09 2013
A Final Word from Les Edgerton–Fortune Favors the Prepared
Also, there will be a great many examples of novels that break these precepts. There are many reasons for that. Contrary to popular opinion, novels don’t make it into print simply because they’re quality writing. There are many other factors at work. Factors that the writer may or may not have control over.
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International Association of Professional Writers & Editors
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