After not using a Power Point or any type of formal presentation for the first set of tour stops with Becca and Moira, I finally decided to create one before I met BF in Toronto at the end of October. I found that it helped me stay on target while talking to school groups. In addition to the requisite "childhood embarrassing photo" and info about FURY, I included five writing tips at the end. My little gimmick (you gotta have one...)? All of them contain the word "out." Here's what I mean:
1) Spill it OUT.
Staring at a blank page (slash screen) is the absolute worst. Get something on there, even if it's crap (and some of it won't be). As some of you know, I know an editor who calls this "word-vomming." Whatever you want to call it, don't fall prey to the belief/personal expectation that your first attempt is going to be great, or even that good. Words beget more words, beget more (and better) ideas. Skip around, if that'll help - if you love writing dialogue, get some of that down and then come back to the exposition. If setting the scene is your thing, do that before you start hammering out plot details.
2) Get OUT.
By which I mean, get OUT of the house, OUT of your head, OUT of your rut - whether it be your writing routine, genre devotion, or whatever. Absorb the sounds and conversations in coffee shops and parks, listen to the world around you, read something totally different, try bringing your laptop to that chair in the living room that you never sit in.
3) Read it OUT (loud).
Whether I'm writing journalism or fiction, I find that printing out my work, taking it to a quiet place, and reading it aloud is incredibly helpful. It helps me identify phrases or words I'm overusing, establish a cadence or rhythm, hear whether dialogue sounds realistic or stilted.
4) Throw (some of) it OUT.
This refers to the editing process. Never get so wedded to something that you can't stand to part with it for the sake of the story.
5) Send it OUT.
I don't just mean to editors and agents. I mean to friends, trusted readers, etc. People who will give you the constructive criticism you need and (should) want. Speaking of which, I recently performed an informal partial critique, and it made me think deeply about the "craft" of writing. More on that soon.
Becca also pointed out that I, being an adherent to OUTlines, should add that to the list. She's right.
Can you think of any more OUT tips or tricks?
How abOUT...Push yourself to write OUTside your comfort zone. This little writing exercise is good for the brain and you may surprise yourself.
ReplyDeleteGreat list!
xx,
E.J.
Paranormal Author E.J. Stevens
From the Shadows
That is a great one, EJ! Thanks for reading. xo-E
ReplyDeleteYou gotta shOUT at family and friends when your story isn't cooperating. Actually, don't do that. It would be mean. Go OUT and buy chocolate. That's much better.
ReplyDeleteWhat a great list! Thank you for sharing...I've taken note. I'm always looking for tips from authors, editors and agents. And, I've found that most of my favorites share their tips, tricks and advice regularly.
ReplyDeleteWhat could we add?
Look OUTside of yourself--for inspiration. I'm inspired not only by the characters in my head and the authors that I admire, but the girl on the street whose situation (which I can only imagine) breaks my heart. I'm inspired by the joy my students show when they finally get an A on a paper. Where ever your inspiration comes from, use it, let it flow through you and onto your paper (or screen).
Good work.I like your awesome post..!
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