Write well. Write often. Edit wisely.
This is the first article in a series exploring the elements of story structure. Part 1 looks beyond the topics of three-act and mythic structure to a review of the story goal (concern of the protagonist), the story question (concern of the reader), and the protagonist’s inner need.
Search your stories for text or practices that leach the power out of your characters’ declarations. A consideration of question tags.
Explore situations when telling rather than showing might be beneficial. Explore too the different types of showing in fiction.
Even the best writing advice might not work for every circumstance. Remind yourself that some advice won’t fit your story or a particular circumstance.
When plain words work, use them. Don’t feel that you must use fancy words to elevate your fiction. Choose words that make your story feel real rather than pretentious.
Major characters grow and change. Have you remembered to show the ways in which your characters are changed by what happens to them?
Don’t apologize for your characters or try to hide or downplay the kind of people they are. Write characters and story events without hesitation.
Rather than try to spell an accent, use other options for letting readers know that a character has an accent.
The story problem and the story question are vital components of any fiction. A discussion of the importance of the story question for readers.
The reader will focus on what stands out. Turn the reader's attention where you want it to go.
Thank you for reading The Editor's Blog, an Internet resource for fiction writers,
freelance editors, and everyone who loves words
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Copyright © 2010-2018 E. A. Hill Visit Beth at A Novel Edit
Write well. Write often. Edit wisely.
