Write well. Write often. Edit wisely.
Excessive and unnecessary explanations can weaken the dramatic and emotional impact of sentences. Learn why explanations are often unnecessary and annoying.
Continue reading Don’t Explain, Don’t Explain, Don’t Explain »
Use word choices to make your stories stand out, to involve readers in the fiction. Tips for twisting common words into memorable passages.
Unnecessary words can burden your stories with flab, make them sag. The wrong words can even diffuse the impact you’re trying to create. Be alert for these phrases and words that can dull your fiction.
Why write? Why sit at a desk and connect words into scenes and stories? One reason is to entertain readers. But writers don’t only entertain readers. Great writers and good stories can change a reader’s life.
You’re a fiction writer? Then by all means feel free to make up words for your story world.
There is not only one way to write a sentence, a scene, a chapter, or a story. Writing a novel isn’t only about plugging in words and events and scenes in accordance with a formula. It’s writing with skill and artistry.
Stories can gain strength and meaning when the words we use suit characters and genre and story events. Create memorable stories by clothing characters with words that fit.
Continue reading Clothe Characters Well—Choose Words that Fit »
Characters should use words specific to their backgrounds and histories, and not sound like the author who created them. Explore the importance of word choice for characters.
Continue reading Character Voices Shouldn’t Sound Like Yours »
Using contractions and writing in dialect are only two categories of word choices a writer must face. Explore the use of contractions and dialect in fiction.
Most writers have heard the instruction that says to write what you know. I suggest that writers instead write about subjects that move them. Write from your passions.
The reader will focus on what stands out. Turn the reader's attention where you want it to go.
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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.
