Monday, December 28, 2015

Topic 20 The Year in Review

December 2015-A Time to Review

Greetings,
As we wind down the year, it's a good time to reflect not only on changes we'd like to make as a writer in the coming year, but also to review the progress we've made in the year ending. So, let's take a look at writer ideas and thoughts shared on this blog this past year and see how many you've already incorporated in your own writing life.

1. Tuning in to conversations around you--be it the hairdresser, barber shop, grocery store, airport, work, or the beach. You never know when you might want to use those words.
2. Capture ideas--read newspapers and other pertinent articles, listen to
    news reports on radio and TV.      
3. Life experiences--Don't be afraid to weave them into your stories.
4. Travels--keep a notebook with unique names of streets, lakes, shops, license plates, etc.
5. Research--It's imperative for any writing project. Check and recheck. Get the facts straight
   no matter if you're writing fact or fiction.
6. Interviews--Take advantage of them. Be courteous, on time, listen, and take copious notes.
   You never know when you might want to use info for a poem or another story.
7. Beginnings--Great ones pull the reader in the instant book is opened.
8. Balance--It's all about balance in your life. Letting go and prioritizing. Take a deep
    breath and set aside time for yourself.
9. Writer versus spectator (readers)--People's life's change from day to day. An Author is
     affected by his writings and the acceptance/rejection of his work.
10. Images--Attending events such as parades, live stage shows offer a wealth of things to
      write about. Pick up on emotions and description of people.
11. Molding characters--Select appropriate name, discover background, details, strengths/fears/
      challenges.
12. Exploring topics--Take in a state fair or a circus. Tons of ideas for stories and poems.
13. Rewriting--Keep rewriting till things smooth out and fall into place.
14. Character Names--Finding great ones. Page through magazines, books, etc.
15. Reading other writer's works--Infuse your work with inspiration from other authors.
16. Writing tips from fellow writer/bloggers--A writer can always pick up new ideas. You just
      have to pick and chose as they come across your computer.
17. Marketing--the 4 P's. Product, Place, Promotion, and Price
18. Mentoring--Don't be afraid to ask a fellow writer for help. And offer advice to a struggling
      new author.
19. Everything Old is New--We actually draw on the stories of long ago to write a new version.
      Stories from ancient Greeks, philosophers, the Bible, Mother Goose, Aesop's
      Fables, Shakespeare contain violence, conflict and love/hate relationships.
     
Until Next Time
This is Marlene Chabot

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