But why do I write?
Hi Readers,
I hope you’ve had a good week. I’ve been forced to stay in and write this week because of the miserable wet and cold weather. It’s a good job I enjoy writing. More on that later.
That Fence
Did you like my fence last week? Did you spot the mistake? I’m sure you did.
The fence was put in the wrong way. What you can see is the back of the fence. It needs turning around.
Writing
Over the past few months, I’ve blogged about certain aspects of writing:- challenges faced, writer’s block, self-esteem, and core values.
This week I’m offering tips for writers, not because I’m an expert. I’m not, but because, over the years, I have researched and researched what other writers do and say, and there are many similarities.
But why do I write?
Is it for fame and fortune, to leave a legacy, is it a career, or because it’s enjoyable and fun?
It’s probably all or a mixture rather than just one. In my case, yes, I would love to make money from my writing. That’s the idea, right? It would also be nice to be remembered for your writing, but my genre will not suit everybody. I’m too old to make writing a career, but most of all, I enjoy writing for its own sake. Anything else is a bonus.
I write because I want to entertain my readers. I want them to enjoy what I write, keep turning the pages until the book is finished, and seek the next book. I want to engage with fans and give them emotional experiences, compelling characters, intriguing plot twists, and steamy love scenes.
As a newbie first-time author, I am on a steep learning curve, studying the craft of writing books that will help me tell engaging and satisfying stories that resonate with readers.
If you are an author, do any of the above resonate with you? Now for those writer tips I promised you.
Writer’s Tips (not in any order)
Try and write every day. Difficult, but it gives you routine.
Know your audience. You can do this before even writing your book.
Show, don’t tell. Instead of telling your readers what’s happening, show them. Use descriptive language and sensory details to create a vivid picture in their minds.
Create compelling characters. These are at the heart of your story, so take time to develop them fully. Give them strengths, flaws, and a backstory that makes them real.
Plot out your story unless you write by the seat of your pants. Have a clear path to help you stay on track. Outline the major plot points and then fill in the details.
Use dialogue effectively as a powerful tool. Make sure each character has a distinct voice and use dialogue to reveal the character’s motivations and feelings
Edit, edit, and edit. Once you have finished your first draft, go back and be ruthless with your editing. Cut out anything that doesn’t move your story forward or develop your characters. Keep repeating the process until your story is the best it can be.
Read other books in your genre. Seeing how other authors write can help improve your own writing.
Don’t give up. Writing can be very challenging and frustrating at times, but keep going. The end result is worth it.
There is so much information on the net to add to the above list. Choose what is best for you; it is all good advice, even if you cannot always keep to it. I know I don’t!
Happy reading.
Mansel Winter