Words will flow

"Read a thousand books, and your words will flow like a river." Lisa See, Snow Flower and the Secret Fan

As writers, we need to read in order to fill up the well of creativity.

Reading good books broadens and expands one’s mind, vocabulary, and horizons. It exposes one to new writing styles, voices, ideas, and viewpoints. It gives one the opportunity to learn about writing by studying how our betters use words, structure sentences, stories, and arguments.

We can learn from pretty much anyone and anything. Learning what not to do almost as important as learning what to do. So, please excuse me while I get back to my book…

Words and the senses

Words and the senses

As wonderful as words are, we have to admit they have limits. However, they can be especially powerful when used in combination with the senses.

How much more effective is a whispered “I love you,” when punctuated by kisses. How well an “I’m sorry for your loss,” goes with a touch of the hand; “Do you remember…” goes with a specific scent or melody from the past.

When editing your story, check to see that you have deepened point of view by including, amongst your dialogue, all the senses.


How much should I edit?

The more you leave out...

“Editing is like gardening, prune the branches, then the leaves.” I don’t remember who said it but it’s good advice. Think topiary.

Prune out the boring bits, the curly bits that go nowhere, the lovely words which don’t relate to the plot but sound wonderful. Copy and paste them into another file and find somewhere else to use them.

Ensure repetition is a rhetorical device for emphasis rather than redundancy.

Prune away the fluff and fuzz, anything which stands between the reader and your story.

When Words are Scarce

When words are scarce

Even the best writers are sometimes at a loss for words. There are times words fail us. Times when extremes of shock, sadness, or love leave us speechless.

At times like these, rather than retreating without saying a word, finding something heartfelt to say, even when it seems impossible, can make all the difference in the world to the recipient.

Sweet Words

Sweet words

A nice reminder for today. Sweet words are one thing. Sickly sweet sentimentality is quite another.

Who decides which is which? The person to whom you wish to direct your words. Personal taste is an important consideration when choosing your words. Unfortunately, what melts one person, can repulse another.