Metaphors This is a figure of speech which assigns something to an object or action that isn’t literally applicable (ie. I felt hot coals seething inside my stomach). A wonderful tool for hinting at a theme/subtly foreshadowing future events. Try not to use any cliches, such as “cat got your tongue” or “read between theContinue reading “Stylistic Techniques”
Author Archives: C.M. Wells
How to Avoid Burnout
The biggest contributing factor to the dreaded “writer’s block” is burnout. Your write yourself to the point of exhaustion, becoming so completely absorbed in your identity as a writer, you forget the rest of the world and stop living for anything that’s not the written word. Even the best writers need a break sometimes! SoContinue reading “How to Avoid Burnout”
How To Build Tension in Your Writing
The art of good storytelling is a craft with lots of parts to master, but one key you can use to keep your readers actively engaged in your story is maintaining excellent tension. Tension is the edge-of-your-seat anticipation that keeps your readers engaged and following along. Real tension in stories ebbs and flows. To helpContinue reading “How To Build Tension in Your Writing”
What’s in a Name? – Naming Your Characters
Ever wondered what is in a name? If you are a writer who struggles with naming civilizations, people, etc these tips are for you! 1.) Check out some name generators! Check out our Name Generators in the “Resources and Help” section of Classwork 2.) Baby Name Books/Sites There are loads of sites that include interestingContinue reading “What’s in a Name? – Naming Your Characters”
Your Writer Routine
We all feel incompetent at times, in this journey. There are days where it just doesn’t feel like we have what it takes. Like we aren’t qualified enough. Like everyone else is better than us. First of all, Imma kick your butt for second… No one can write like you can! No one has yourContinue reading “Your Writer Routine”
The Art of Freewriting
Free Writing is the best way to develop your style as a writer, and learn your own unique voice. But most people do it wrong! Is there a wrong way to do it, you ask? If your aim is to get better at writing, then YES! Like when you lift weights. Your technique matters! IfContinue reading “The Art of Freewriting”
Finding Beta Readers
Looking for beta-readers is difficult, and its hard to know what you want. Here is some solid advice for anyone looking for good feedback on their work. 1.) What kind of feedback are you looking for? If you are looking for feedback from a person as a reader, its best to find someone who doesContinue reading “Finding Beta Readers”
Hatching New Ideas
If you’re having difficulty coming up with what to write try doing some of these things to get the gears turning! 1.) Check out Pinterest Start pinning things that are interesting to you. There are so many inspiring things there, one of them is bound to spark your creativity and stretch your writing muscles. WritingContinue reading “Hatching New Ideas”
Developing Realistic Emotions for Your Characters
A lot of people struggle with emotion in their writing. Once you learn the techniques – and with a little focused practice – its not hard to be an emotional mastermind in your writing. 1.) Avoid the Melodrama After you write your scene, think about what it might look like if that scene was unfoldingContinue reading “Developing Realistic Emotions for Your Characters”
Journaling Like a Writer
“I just can’t come up with good ideas.” “I feel stuck.” “I don’t feel like me when I write.” If you relate to any of these, you’re gonna wanna take a seat and give this a quick read. This single tip COMPLETELY changed my writing life for the better. Keep. A. Journal. Now, hear meContinue reading “Journaling Like a Writer”
Inklings and Inkwells 