“Anybody can write a novel.” Writers sometimes hear that statement from dismissive non–writer family and friends. Rightfully, we dislike the insinuation, since we know full well how much education, talent, skill, effort, and dedication is required for “anybody” to write a novel. Still, there is a certain measure of truth in the idea that “anybody can […]
December 10, 2018 by 74 Comments How to Become a WriterThe 10-Step Checklist to Writing an Above-Average Novel
August 21, 2013 by 7 Comments ForeshadowingDeliver Foreshadowing in a 1, 2, 3 Punch
I said last week that I was going to fail at not gushing over Guillermo del Toro’s Pacific Rim—and I was right. Turns out I have yet to say all I have to say on this subject. For the next couple of weeks, we’re going to explore a few more lessons we can glean from […]
May 24, 2013 by 24 Comments Prose3 Ways to Add Repetition That Pleases Readers
We all know to avoid “bad” repetition—our overused pet words, unintended echoing phrases, and repetitive sentence structure. But there’s also useful repetition that we can use to enhance our stories. Repetition can be used to reinforce a sense of unity or to supply readers with a satisfying feeling after tying up loose ends. Let’s look at three examples […]
January 9, 2013 by 23 Comments Plotting Your NovelUse This Subplot to Bring Depth to Plot-Driven Stories
Subplots are surprisingly misunderstood. Primarily, this is because the best subplots are always natural offshoots of the plot itself. They’re so integral to the plot that they’re basically inextricable from it. Let me start with a basic definition of the subplot: The subplot is a thematically related exploration of a minor part of the protagonist’s […]
May 13, 2012 by 78 Comments Structuring Your NovelThe Secrets of Story Structure, Pt. 12: Your Questions Answered
Because of its fixed nature, story structure, once learned, is easy to grasp. However, it’s also a subject that inspires endless questions. A few weeks ago, while I was finishing up the last of the posts in this series, I asked those of you who follow me on Facebook and Twitter for story-structure questions you’d like me to address before […]
April 25, 2012 by 27 Comments Plotting Your NovelDoes Your Story Need Subplots?
We’re always hearing about subplots. But what exactly are they? And does your story really need subplots? In a nutshell, a subplot is just a miniature plot that features a sideline story. If your story is about an escaped convict who’s trying to prove his innocence, your main plot is going to be his escape, […]
November 30, 2011 by Leave a Comment ThemeTips for Creating Thematic Resonance
Because theme often arises organically from a story, without much initial conscious thought on the author’s part, it can sometimes be a tricky aspect for writers to get their heads around. One of the keys to creating a story with deep thematic resonance is choosing subplots that can thematically mirror and reinforce the main plot’s […]
April 13, 2011 by 12 Comments Plotting Your NovelHow to Keep the Wrong Subplots From Sinking Your Story
Subplots are vital for many reasons. They can deepen your story’s plot and theme. They can provide contrast and resonance for the main plot. And they can give your characters and their world a feeling of verisimilitude. The wrong subplots, however, can water down your plot with parenthetical information. Writers must realize not every moment […]
July 18, 2010 by 39 Comments CharactersHow to Find Powerful Motives for Your Characters
You will often be judged by what you do. To a large extent, you are what you do. However, because others’ perceptions of your actions don’t penetrate to the reasons behind your actions, you will often be judged incorrectly, or even unjustly. It’s no different for your characters. In a book, as much as in life, a person’s […]
