Sometimes, that’s how I feel. I get an idea and, often, it seems to come from outside myself, from one of my characters. Stay with me. I don’t have multiple personality disorder, promise. I don’t hear voices. But, really, I couldn’t tell you how my novels or stories get written. I mean, I could tell — Read More
Category: Writers on Writing
On opening sentences
Most of the books and stories I’ve written have been inspired by a single line. I’ll get that first line in my head and roll it around for a few weeks or months, then I start writing. More often than not, the first line changes from what it was initially, but the original line is — Read More
Why We Write: Continued
As I said last week, I just finished reading Why We Write: 20 Acclaimed Writers on How and Why They Do What They Do. As promised, here are some words of wisdom from the contributing writers: “Whenever I am writing, or more accurately, whenever I have written, I feel better and more at peace as — Read More
Why We Write
I just finished reading Why We Write: 20 Acclaimed Writers on How and Why They Do What They Do. I’d recommend it, mostly because proceeds go to 826 National, a nonprofit dedicated to writing and tutoring centers. I didn’t think the entries were all that compelling. In fact, my favorite part was the introduction by — Read More
Vintage photos of writers writing
I just saw this slideshow on Huffington Post and had to share my favorites. Captions by me. Dorothy Parker “Hmm, I really don’t remember writing this last night. Whelp, it’s pretty good.” Mark Twain Philip Roth William Faulkner Edith Wharton There are a total of 13 photos in the Huffington Post slideshow. Check it out.
Letting go of the first draft
I’ve been thinking quite a bit about what to do when I’m done with the first draft of my novel. That time is close. It makes me sad, in a sense. I’ve enjoyed the private project of writing it. Soon, I’ll face the inevitable release of the book into the hands of others. I have — Read More
I write because…
…I’ve got stories to tell. …I have fears and fantasies to explore. …It’s something that’s all my own. …I have to. …My imagination needs an outlet. …It’s the one hobby I’ve had since I was a little kid. …It’s the most efficient way to clear my mind. …Some teachers encouraged me along the way. …My — Read More
Why it’s good to write when you’re busy
I used to daydream of a writing life that was consumed with just that–writing. I’d have no distractions or other obligations. This hilarious, idealistic goal fell by the wayside when I realized I have to make money, sustain relationships, that kind of thing. And let’s not forget the endless list of errands (and I don’t — Read More
Don’t listen to Philip Roth.
Have you heard this story yet? In short: Julian Tepper just published his novel, Balls. He decided to approach Philip Roth, a regular at the Jewish deli where he worked, to tell him of this success and offer him a copy of the book (though Roth has said he doesn’t read fiction anymore). After complimenting — Read More
James Patterson: savvy bestseller or total sellout?
I have to admit I’ve never read a James Patterson novel. I think it’s because there are TV commercials promoting them, and they’re all over airports. The snob in me thinks I’m too good for that. But, c’mon, I have to respect the fact that the man has created an empire–an empire–with his writing. Anyone — Read More