You have a shiny new idea for a book, but how do you make that idea into a story? Most people start with whatever excites them most. If you like worldbuilding, then you may start with a setting idea. Or maybe you want to tell a certain person’s story, or Read more…
When people talk about putting conflict in a story, they often discuss how to create it or intensify it. Hardly anyone addresses how to resolve it. I think most people just assume there is one option: the character overcomes it. Life isn’t that simple, and I don’t think stories should Read more…
Every story is about overcoming obstacles in your protagonist’s way to her goal. There should be numerous obstacles to face throughout the book, and you’ll need various types to make it seem more realistic. If the only issue the protagonist has is her love life, then the story will grow Read more…
The last character detail I’m going to cover this round for Character Under A Microscope is manipulation. That’s right, I just went there. Every person, regardless of how good he is, manipulates other people to get what he wants. It’s part of being alive. Even animals do it. Why does Read more…
This week, let’s take a deeper look at character motivations. What makes the characters act like they do? Writers are often told to give characters goals, but along with those goals come motivations. Why do they want those goals? The reasons characters act the way they do will not only Read more…
I want to start a new ongoing series on my website called Character Under A Microscope. There are so many things you can consider when creating characters that I think it needs an in-depth study. I don’t want to burn my readers out on all things character though so I’m Read more…
Aristotle coined the word catharsis, which is defined as purging of powerful negative emotions through dramatic art. It occurs when someone empathizes with characters. When those characters overcome their negative emotions, the reader overcomes those emotions with the characters, but it also tricks the person’s body into purging any pent-up Read more…
I want to address three emotions that often get intermixed and, therefore, confused in writing. Surprise, tension, and suspense are all beneficial to a thrilling plot line. Each have their strengths and weaknesses, and, by understanding these, writers can find ways to weave them into their plots for maximum effect. Read more…
Have you ever heard someone talk about purple prose? When I first started branching out to learn more about writing outside of a hobby, I was flummoxed by the term. It seemed to have a negative connotation, but that’s all I knew. A little digging gave me answers, and I Read more…
“Gustavo,” Javier yelled, scanning the woods. “Where are you?” His younger brother had insisted on playing hide and seek this time, and, of course, Gustavo’s coat was forest green. Perfect for hiding. “Are you lost?” a brittle voice asked. Javier spun, fists ready for a fight. An old woman with Read more…