Free Fiction Writing Tips | Writing Craft | Knowledge is Power

Dedicated to the classic books on fiction writing. Learn to write short stories, novels, and plays by studying the classic how-to books. I believe fiction writing is a Craft. In the hands of a writer who has mastered the Craft, it can become more than that. It can become Art. Art = Talent + Craft But the bedrock is Craft. There are fundamental techniques to be studied, unfamiliar tools to be mastered, tricks of the trade to be learned. And it all takes time. (Writing Mastery) (Writing Craft)

Monday, June 3, 2024

Novelsmithing, The Structural Foundation of Plot, Character, and Narration: provides the beginning novelist, or perhaps even the experienced novelist who has lost his way, with a discussion of the underlying structure and methods of novel writing.

Novelsmithing: The Structural Foundation of Plot, Character, and Narration

Article By Olivia Salter

Get your free copy of "Novelsmithing, The Structural Foundation of Plot, Character, and Narration by David Sheppard."

Let’s delve into the fascinating world of Novelsmithing and explore how it contributes to the craft of fiction writing.

Remember, it’s not just about creativity—it’s about the meticulous craftsmanship that turns a story into a memorable novel.

Novelsmithing by David Sheppard is a valuable resource for both aspiring and experienced novelists. Published in 2009, this book provides essential insights into the underlying structure and methods of novel writing. Here are some key points:

The Divine Trinity of Novel Writing:
- Novelsmithing emphasizes the importance of three core elements: character, conflict, and theme. These elements form the organic unity necessary for creating a compelling work of literature.
- By mastering these components, authors can weave intricate narratives that resonate with readers.
Narration Techniques:
- The book delves into the art of narration. It teaches writers how to effectively convey their story, maintain reader engagement, and build tension.
- From point of view choices to pacing, Novelsmithing covers various aspects of narration.
Craft Over Creativity:
- Unlike creative writing guides that focus solely on inspiration, Novelsmithing emphasizes the craft of storytelling.
- It provides practical techniques for transforming a story idea into a well-structured novel.
Screenwriters’ Benefit:
- Novelsmithing isn’t limited to novelists. Aspiring screenwriters can also find value in its content.
- The principles discussed apply to both written fiction and screenplays.
Rough Draft Blueprint:
- Completing the first nine chapters of Novelsmithing can give an author a rough draft for their novel.
- This structured approach helps writers organize their ideas and lay the groundwork for a cohesive story.
About the Author:
- David Sheppard holds a bachelor’s degree from Arizona State University and a master’s degree from Stanford University.
- His other works include Oedipus on a Pale Horse and The Mysteries: A Novel of Ancient Eleusis.

Whether you’re just starting your writing journey or seeking to refine your skills, Novelsmithing provides valuable guidance. Remember, it’s not just about creativity—it’s about the meticulous craftsmanship that turns a story into a memorable novel.

Happy writing!

Get your free copy of "Novelsmithing, The Structural Foundation of Plot, Character, and Narration by David Sheppard."

Sunday, June 2, 2024

Writing Quote: If you expect to succeed as a writer, rudeness should be the second-to-least of your concerns. The least of all should be polite society and what it expects. If you intend to write as truthfully as you can, your days as a member of polite society are numbered, anyway. -- Stephen King

Embracing Rudeness and Ignoring Polite Society: A Writer's Journey to Success

By Olivia Salter

When it comes to being a successful writer, there are many obstacles to get in your way. One of the most important things to remember is that, in order to truly succeed, you must not be afraid to embrace a certain level of rudeness.

Renowned author Stephen King once said, "If you expect to succeed as a writer, rudeness should be the second-to-least of your concerns. The least of all should be polite society and what it expects." This quote highlights the importance of not letting the opinions of others dictate your writing style or content. In order to write authentically and truthfully, you must be willing to push boundaries and challenge societal norms.

Writing is a form of self-expression and creativity, and it should not be stifled by the expectations of a polite society. If you intend to write as truthfully as you can, your days as a member of polite society are numbered anyway. This means that in order to truly create meaningful and impactful work, you must be willing to break free from societal expectations and norms.

Embracing rudeness does not mean being intentionally offensive or disrespectful. It simply means being unapologetically true to yourself and your writing. It means pushing boundaries, taking risks, and being unafraid to challenge the status quo. Furthermore, it means writing with conviction and embracing the freedom to create without fear.

As a writer, your ultimate goal should be to connect with your audience on a deep and emotional level. In order to do this, you must be willing to write from a place of honesty and authenticity, even if it means going against the grain of polite society. By embracing rudeness and ignoring societal expectations, you can truly unlock your full potential as a writer and create work that resonates with readers on a profound level.

Saturday, June 1, 2024

Writing as an Act of Creativity: Liberating Your Imagination

By Olivia Salter

When you sit down to write, you embark on a journey into the boundless realm of creativity. Whether you’re crafting a novel, penning poetry, or even composing a heartfelt email, writing is an art form that transcends rigid boundaries. It’s not merely about following strict rules or adhering to someone else’s guidelines; it’s about tapping into your inner muse and allowing your ideas to flow freely.

What Is Creative Writing?

Creative writing is the art of using words to express ideas and emotions in imaginative ways. It’s more than just putting sentences together; it’s about weaving a tapestry of thoughts, feelings, and imagery that resonates with readers. Here are some key aspects of creative writing:

Narrative Craft: Creative writing focuses on storytelling. Whether you’re creating fictional worlds, recounting personal experiences, or exploring historical events, narrative craft is at the heart of it. Consider the structure, pacing, and character development—the elements that breathe life into your words.
Character Development: Characters are the soul of any story. As a creative writer, you have the power to shape their personalities, motivations, and quirks. Dive deep into their psyche, and let them surprise you with their choices.
Literary Tropes: Literary tropes are recurring themes, motifs, or devices used in storytelling. From metaphors and similes to foreshadowing and irony, these tools add layers of meaning to your prose.
Poetry and Poetics: Poetry is the distilled essence of creativity. It dances with rhythm, metaphor, and emotion. Explore different forms—sonnets, haikus, free verse—and let your words sing.

Breaking Free from Constraints

Now, let’s address the elephant in the room: rules. Yes, there are rules—grammar rules, style conventions, and genre expectations. But creative writing invites you to bend, twist, and occasionally break these rules. Here’s how:

Embrace Imperfection: Don’t fret over every comma or semicolon. Sometimes, a fragment or a run-on sentence adds flavor. Let your prose breathe.
Ignore the Naysayers: There will always be well-meaning folks who insist on rigid guidelines. Politely nod, then proceed to dance across the page with your own rhythm.
Write First, Edit Later: When you sit down to write, silence your inner editor. Let the words flow without judgment. Editing comes later; creation comes first.
Immerse Yourself: Immerse yourself in sensory details. Describe the scent of rain-soaked earth, the taste of nostalgia, and the touch of a forgotten memory. Let your senses guide you.

The Brain Behind Creativity

Interestingly, creativity isn’t just about output; it’s also about what’s happening in your brain. Cognitive neuroscientists study the neural pathways that light up when we create. So, when you’re lost in a fictional world or crafting a heartfelt letter, your brain is a symphony of firing neurons, weaving connections between imagination and expression.

In conclusion, next time you sit down to write, remember that you’re not merely following rules—you’re painting with words, sculpting emotions, and inviting readers into your universe. So, toss aside the shackles, embrace your inner artist, and let your creativity flow.

Happy writing!

Friday, May 31, 2024

Fiction Characters: How to Create People Who Live and Breathe on the Page

by Olivia Salter

Creating compelling characters is the cornerstone of good fiction. Characters are the heart and soul of a story, making readers care about the plot and what happens next. But how do you create fictional people who seem as real as the folks next door? Here are some tips for breathing life into your characters.

1. Understand Their Motivations Every character needs a reason for their actions. What drives them? What do they want more than anything? Understanding your character’s motivations will inform their decisions and make their actions believable.

2. Give Them Flaws Perfect characters are not only unrealistic, but they’re also unrelatable. Flaws make characters human and give them room to grow. Think about what weaknesses could hold your character back and how they might overcome them.

3. Develop a Backstory A character’s past shapes who they are. Spend time thinking about where your characters come from, what experiences they’ve had, and how these have affected them. This doesn’t all need to make it into your story, but it will help you understand your character better.

4. Use Dialogue Wisely Dialogue is a powerful tool for character development. Through conversations, you can reveal a character’s personality, background, and relationships without resorting to exposition. Pay attention to how your characters speak and what it says about them.

5. Show, Don’t Tell Instead of telling readers that a character is brave or kind, show these traits through their actions. This is more engaging and allows readers to draw their own conclusions about a character.

6. Let Them Change Characters should evolve over the course of your story. Their experiences should change them in some way, whether it’s subtle or profound. This growth makes characters feel alive and gives the story a satisfying arc.

7. Understand Their Role Every character should serve a purpose in your story. Whether they’re the protagonist, antagonist, or a side character, think about why they’re there and what role they play in the larger narrative.

8. Use Physical Descriptions Sparingly While some physical description is necessary, it’s often more effective to let readers fill in the blanks with their imagination. Focus on a few distinctive features rather than a full-blown description.

9. Consider Their Relationships Characters don’t exist in a vacuum. Their relationships with other characters can be just as telling as their individual traits. Think about how these dynamics work and what they reveal about all parties involved.

10. Test Them Put your characters in challenging situations to see how they react. This not only moves the plot forward but also deepens our understanding of who they are.

By following these tips, you can create fictional characters that are as nuanced and vibrant as real people. Remember, the goal is to make readers forget they’re reading about imaginary people and instead feel like they’re meeting someone new and interesting. Happy writing!

Also see:

👉Free Writing Resources
👉Fiction Writing books at Amazon

ProWritingAid: Crime Writers' Week 2024

Crime Writers' Week 2024

Discover the secrets for writing, editing, and publishing a crime novel at this free online summit.

June 17 - 21, 2024

Live sessions with bestselling authors and experts

Attend ProWritingAid's live interviews and workshops with authors such as Dana Pittman (Black Diamond), Wanda M. Morris (All Her Little Secrets), and many more.

Writing craft workshops
Power up your writing skills, learn how to find your ideal reader, break through writer's block, and write engaging scenes.

Are you ready to finally write your bestselling crime novel?

At Crime Writers’ Week, you’ll:

🔍Learn from bestselling and award-winning authors like Jessica Brody, Alex Segura, Wanda M. Morris, and Louisa Luna
🔍Discover how to edit, outline, publish, market, and more in workshops from industry experts
🔍Connect with other crime writers at networking events

And so much more!

Can't make it live? No problem! Replays will be available after the event.

Are you ready to write and publish a thrilling crime novel?

Join Crime Writers' Week to learn how to craft an unforgettable crime story and share it with the world.

Register for free:

SIGN-UP NOW

Thursday, May 30, 2024

Quote: I think perfection is ugly. Somewhere in the things humans make, I want to see scars, failure, disorder, distortion. – Yohji Yamamoto

Embracing Imperfection in Fiction Writing: Finding Beauty in Scars, Failure, and Disorder

by Olivia Salter

In the world of fiction writing, there is often pressure to strive for perfection. Writers may feel the need to create flawless characters, flawless plots, and flawless prose. However, renowned fashion designer Yohji Yamamoto offers a refreshing perspective on imperfection in his quote, "I think perfection is ugly. Somewhere in the things humans make, I want to see scars, failure, disorder, distortion."

Yamamoto's words remind us that imperfections are what make us human, and they can also be what make our stories come alive. In fiction writing, embracing scars, failure, disorder, and distortion can lead to more authentic and compelling storytelling.

Scars in fiction can add depth to characters, revealing their past struggles and vulnerabilities. Failure can drive the plot forward, creating tension and conflict. Disorder can mirror the chaos of real life, making the story more relatable. And distortion can challenge readers' perspectives, sparking thought and discussion.

By incorporating imperfections into our writing, we can create narratives that resonate with readers on a deeper level. So, instead of striving for perfection, let's embrace the beauty of scars, failure, disorder, and distortion in our fiction writing. Let's dare to be imperfect and create stories that are truly human.

Wednesday, May 29, 2024

Never Ask a Writer, "Are You Still Writing?"

By Olivia Salter

As writers, we pour hearts and souls into our writing. We spend countless hours crafting stories, poems, screenplays, articles, and novels, striving for something meaningful and impactful. But despite our dedication and passion, there are moments when self-doubt creeps in, and we question our abilities and worth as writers. One of the most common questions we face is, "Are you still writing?" It may seem like a harmless inquiry, but for many writers, it strikes at the core of our insecurities. It implies that our progress is being judged, that our commitment is being questioned, and that our work may not be valued.

When someone asks us this question, it can feel like a dagger to the heart. It triggers feelings of inadequacy, self-doubt, and fear of failure. It can make us question our creative process, our talent, and our purpose as writers. Furthermore, it can derail our momentum, sap our motivation, and even halt our progress altogether.

So, if you care about a writer and want to support them, please refrain from asking them, "Are you still writing?" Instead, show your support by expressing interest in their work, offering encouragement, and providing constructive feedback. Acknowledge the challenges they face, celebrate their successes, and remind them of their value as writers.

Remember, writing is a deeply personal and vulnerable endeavor. It requires courage, resilience, and unwavering dedication. By understanding and respecting the creative process, we can help writers thrive and flourish. So let us never ask a writer, "Are you still writing?" and instead, let us cheer them on as they continue to create and inspire.

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Monday, June 3, 2024