Once Upon a First Line

I’ve heard a lot of theories about what makes a first line great. I’ve read a lot of compelling first lines and tried to imagine how I could pull off a similar effect. I’ve read countless stories by other writers, including many novices, who are obviously trying to find this magic and usually, trying too […]

Idea Generation

Where do ideas come from? If you’re a writer, then someone has probably asked you this question. Likewise, if you’re a writer, you probably already have some notion as to the answer. As a frequently asked question, this one has had a strange dichotomy in my life — it is the question most frequently asked […]

On Writing a Novel in One Month

For many writers, November means NaNo. Since I’m actually participating in NaNoWriMo (National Novel Writing Month) this year, I figure it’s only right that I add my voice to the write-a-book-in-a-month movement like many of my fellow writers have done. (Check out Aliette de Bodard and Mary Robinette Kowal) I’ll be honest with you. November […]

Writing Tips: Know What You Write

I’m sure you’ve heard the tried and true piece of writing advice, “Write what you know.” It only makes sense, in terms of realism and believability, but don’t let the advice hold you back. You aren’t stuck, from now until the end of time, writing about the same things over and over again, regurgitating the […]