On Fridays we like to share writing tips and tricks with our readers. We hope this section will encourage and inspire you to continually improve as a writer.
Writing Tip – Avoid Dull Writing
Each of us works at writing on two levels: a creative, unconscious level and a critical, conscious level. The unconscious produces creative and powerful words and images. It makes surprising and original connections. And it shuts down if the critical “editor” of your thoughts goes to work too soon. Block out the voice of your old English teacher and save your editing for the end of your writing session.
Writing Prompt – Find Characters in Your Friends
We are inspired by those around us. Usually for a writer, some part of the story (no matter how predominate) is entangled in our own personal story — our own life. We tend to pull pieces from life, whether it is the accent of our favorite aunt or the physical traits of our best friend. We are inspired by what is familiar. So, think of five friends or family members and create a character profile for each. The fun part is, in the end you may mix and match each profile until you have created a character with depth that compliments your story.