Is your story in a rut? Are you feeling stuck? Writer's block is definitely a problem that most every writer has to deal with. It can be so frustrating! Here are some ideas that might help you get through it:
* Set your story aside for a couple of weeks and work on something else. Sometimes, like a watched pot that never boils, a story idea never comes when we are fretting over it. In my experience, the best ideas for my stories often arrive when I am thinking about something else -- walking my dog, cooking dinner, browsing a farmer's market.
* Is there a later part of the story you want to write or know what's going to happen, but the middle is tripping you up? Sometimes writers know the beginning and the end, but not the middle. If this is the case for your story, my advice would be to skip forward and write the ending. Then, you can go back and write the middle -- ideas might come to you once the ending is in place.
* Sometimes I get blocked when I am at a "fork in the road" in my story: there are multiple routes my story could take, and I'm not sure which one is the "right" one. If you suspect this is the case for your subconscious, I would try just picking one route -- one way the story could go, one thing that could happen next -- and write that. Just see what happens! If it doesn't feel right, you can always go back and change it. But maybe it will be the thing to get you through the block!
* Try putting yourself in your character's head. Let her or him take the reins of the story. Close your eyes and really get inside that character. What are they thinking/feeling/worrying/wondering/fearing? What would they do next in this situation they are in? Try to "freewrite" without thinking too much or editing yourself. Write for eight or ten minutes without stopping. Then, see what you have. Maybe it will be enough to re-start the story again.
Hope these ideas help! I'd also love to hear any of your tips for busting through writer's block!
Thursday, August 13, 2009
Tuesday, August 11, 2009
The Power of Books to Change Lives
Check out this video for a very inspiring reminder of the power of books and literacy!
http://darynkagan.demo.nimbussoftware.com/love/stories/lv_090811_homelessbookclub.html
Watch CBS Videos Online
http://darynkagan.demo.nimbussoftware.com/love/stories/lv_090811_homelessbookclub.html
Watch CBS Videos Online
Saturday, August 8, 2009
What makes a "good" story?
Dear Dallas,
For a long time, I've thought a story has to have a bunch of conflict to be interesting, but in the past couple days I've been reading in this old book of my mom's, and a lot of the stories in it are really interesting and fun even though they're hardly at all tense or full of conflict. So, now I've sort of been trying to figure out what it is that makes someone want to keep reading a story. Do you think, as long as you have good characters with interesting things happening to them, even if their adventures aren't full of all sorts of problems popping up, it can be a good story?
* * *
You ask a very good question, and something that I think every writer thinks about. When I first started writing, I thought that in order to have a good story, I had to come up with a wholly original, action-packed plot. But as I read more and grew more as a writer, I realized that most of the books I enjoyed reading didn't have crazy action-filled plotlines. It was more the characters that drew me into the story. For example, one of my all-time favorite books is Catcher in the Rye, and not much happens plot-wise -- the main character wanders around New York, running into people he knows, musing about his life and the world around him. But I found it utterly compelling. That book also made me realize that it is okay that I sometimes feel like I don't have as much life experience to draw upon as older writers. I can write vividly and compellingly and honestly about the things I have experienced -- childhood, high school, college, first relationships, new friendships, traveling abroad for the first time, etc -- and I can make very interesting characters and stories out of these raw materials. And the same goes for you and the things you've experienced in your life!
In short, I think a "good" story is subjective -- every reader will be different! To me, a good story is simply a story that moves the reader in some way. Maybe that movement is literal and plot-driven -- as you put it, problems that keep popping up -- or the movement could be more internal and character-based. Personally, the quieter, character-driven stories are the ones I find most lasting.
For a long time, I've thought a story has to have a bunch of conflict to be interesting, but in the past couple days I've been reading in this old book of my mom's, and a lot of the stories in it are really interesting and fun even though they're hardly at all tense or full of conflict. So, now I've sort of been trying to figure out what it is that makes someone want to keep reading a story. Do you think, as long as you have good characters with interesting things happening to them, even if their adventures aren't full of all sorts of problems popping up, it can be a good story?
* * *
You ask a very good question, and something that I think every writer thinks about. When I first started writing, I thought that in order to have a good story, I had to come up with a wholly original, action-packed plot. But as I read more and grew more as a writer, I realized that most of the books I enjoyed reading didn't have crazy action-filled plotlines. It was more the characters that drew me into the story. For example, one of my all-time favorite books is Catcher in the Rye, and not much happens plot-wise -- the main character wanders around New York, running into people he knows, musing about his life and the world around him. But I found it utterly compelling. That book also made me realize that it is okay that I sometimes feel like I don't have as much life experience to draw upon as older writers. I can write vividly and compellingly and honestly about the things I have experienced -- childhood, high school, college, first relationships, new friendships, traveling abroad for the first time, etc -- and I can make very interesting characters and stories out of these raw materials. And the same goes for you and the things you've experienced in your life!
In short, I think a "good" story is subjective -- every reader will be different! To me, a good story is simply a story that moves the reader in some way. Maybe that movement is literal and plot-driven -- as you put it, problems that keep popping up -- or the movement could be more internal and character-based. Personally, the quieter, character-driven stories are the ones I find most lasting.
Friday, August 7, 2009
Hamilton Writers Guild Announces 2009 Fiction Writing Contest
Category: General Fiction
2000 Word Limit
Entry Deadline: September 30, 2009
Contest Guidelines
. Entry fee: $10 per entry
. Prizes: $125 1st Prize; $75 2nd Prize; $50 3rd Prize
. Manuscript must be typed, double-spaced on one side of 8.5 x11 white
paper. Do not double space between paragraphs.
. Staple all entries in the upper left hand corner
. Include your name, address, phone number, e-mail address, word count and
where you heard about the contest on cover page only
. Do not put your name, or any other form of identification, on the manuscript
. Entries will not be returned without a SASE and sufficient postage
. Unlimited number of entries allowed; entry fee must accompany each entry
. No e-mail entries
. Previous winning stories or honorable mentions may not be re-submitted
. Winners will be announced on November 20, 2009 on their web site: www.hamiltonwritersguild.org
. Individual winners will be notified by mail. Include a SASE for complete list of winners.
Send entries to:
Hamilton Writers Guild Fiction Contest
PO Box 1205
Hamilton, Ohio 45012
Monday, August 3, 2009
Writing Camp a Great Success!
I had a fantastic weekend.
August 1 & 2 were the first two days of the Second Annual Write On! Summer Writing Camp, and I cannot imagine a better experience. Twenty-four creative, energetic, compassionate young writers showed up eager to write and share their writing with each other. They dove into each activity with enthusiasm and openness -- and I was blown away by the writing they bravely shared with me and the class! Also importantly, everyone was respectful and positive with each other, creating a camp environment of creative risk-taking, kindness, and love.
To all the young writers I was fortunate enough to spend some time with this weekend: Thank you, thank you, thank you, and I can't wait to see you on Saturday! :)
If you didn't make it to camp this past weekend but it sounds like fun, you should come join us this upcoming weekend (Aug. 8 & 9)! Both morning and afternoon sessions are still available. Find more information at the Write On! website or zip me an e-mail: dallaswoodburn@aol.com.
Here are a couple pictures -- more coming soon on my website.
August 1 & 2 were the first two days of the Second Annual Write On! Summer Writing Camp, and I cannot imagine a better experience. Twenty-four creative, energetic, compassionate young writers showed up eager to write and share their writing with each other. They dove into each activity with enthusiasm and openness -- and I was blown away by the writing they bravely shared with me and the class! Also importantly, everyone was respectful and positive with each other, creating a camp environment of creative risk-taking, kindness, and love.
To all the young writers I was fortunate enough to spend some time with this weekend: Thank you, thank you, thank you, and I can't wait to see you on Saturday! :)
If you didn't make it to camp this past weekend but it sounds like fun, you should come join us this upcoming weekend (Aug. 8 & 9)! Both morning and afternoon sessions are still available. Find more information at the Write On! website or zip me an e-mail: dallaswoodburn@aol.com.
Here are a couple pictures -- more coming soon on my website.
Thursday, July 30, 2009
A Fortune for All of Us
I had delicious Chinese food for dinner last night, and one of my favorite things about ordering Chinese food is cracking open the fortune cookies at the end of the meal. Last night, my fortune read: "Daydreams may be pleasant, but accomplishments are more satisfying."
I think this fortune can be applicable to everyone. Dreaming about the future is important, as is setting aside some time every day to daydream and let your mind wander freely. But, on their own, dreams are not enough. True satisfaction is focusing on a dream and setting forth with bravery, determination and hard work to turn that dream into a reality.
It doesn't have to be a huge leap. It doesn't have to happen all at once. In fact, I've discovered that pursuing your dreams is a lot like a climbing mountain, or taking a road trip somewhere new -- the best part actually isn't the moment you reach the peak of the mountain, or pull into the driveway of your final destination. The best part is the journey you take to get there -- all the surprises, detours, U-turns, and even roadblocks that happen along the way -- because overcoming those hardships and learning those lessons make you a better, stronger, wiser, more compassionate and giving person. As Coach John Wooden likes to say, "The journey is better than the inn."
I get the most joy and satisfaction out of actively pursuing my dreams, little by little, every day. I feel purposeful. Every day, I learn something new. Every day, I am humbled. Every day, I feel blessed.
What steps are you taking TODAY to actively pursue your dreams?
I think this fortune can be applicable to everyone. Dreaming about the future is important, as is setting aside some time every day to daydream and let your mind wander freely. But, on their own, dreams are not enough. True satisfaction is focusing on a dream and setting forth with bravery, determination and hard work to turn that dream into a reality.
It doesn't have to be a huge leap. It doesn't have to happen all at once. In fact, I've discovered that pursuing your dreams is a lot like a climbing mountain, or taking a road trip somewhere new -- the best part actually isn't the moment you reach the peak of the mountain, or pull into the driveway of your final destination. The best part is the journey you take to get there -- all the surprises, detours, U-turns, and even roadblocks that happen along the way -- because overcoming those hardships and learning those lessons make you a better, stronger, wiser, more compassionate and giving person. As Coach John Wooden likes to say, "The journey is better than the inn."
I get the most joy and satisfaction out of actively pursuing my dreams, little by little, every day. I feel purposeful. Every day, I learn something new. Every day, I am humbled. Every day, I feel blessed.
What steps are you taking TODAY to actively pursue your dreams?
Thursday, July 23, 2009
Networking, networking, networking!
Last night I went to a mixer event put on by the Young Leaders Society of Ventura County (and organized by my amazing friend Erica Roundy!) -- you can find out more information about this group at their website.
Networking is a great skill to practice. As a kid I was very shy, and growing up I have had to actively work at being outgoing and meeting people. Putting yourself in new situations is a great way to grow, learn new skills, and possibly conquer some fears! Writers, for example, can no longer afford to hide away and simply write -- we also need to be actively spreading the word about ourselves and our work. Building up your networking confidence helps in virtually any profession -- not to mention social situations that aren't job-related, like cocktail parties, birthday parties, conferences, or just meeting new friends! I met some wonderful people last night and had a fabulous time.
Here are some tips that helped me at the event:
1. Bring along your business cards and make sure they are easily accessible. When you meet someone, they will likely ask for your card as a way of getting in contact with you after the event. If you are carrying them in your purse or pocket, it is a good idea to get a business card holder so you can easily find them. Or just slip a few into your wallet. On the flip side, don't be afraid to ask for someone else's business card -- it's a compliment to them and they will be happy to give you one! The day after the event, it can also be nice to send a brief e-mail to everyone you met saying you hope to keep in touch.
2. Grab a drink. At the event I attended last night, they served alcohol, but I don't really drink. Instead, I got a Diet Coke, and it was nice to have something to hold as I mingled around the room. (I sometimes feel awkward and don't know what to do with my hands!) I learned to carry my drink in my left hand, though, because when shaking hands it can be clumsy to switch your drink to the other hand -- not to mention your handshake will likely be cold and damp due to the condensation on your drinking glass!
3. Quality vs. Quantity. Some people at networking events buzz around the room, meeting as many people as possible for brief, two or three minute conversations. Others talk to only a couple people the entire evening. I think a happy medium is best, but also consider what you hope to get out of the event. What are your networking goals? What are the reasons you chose to attend the event? Personally, I would much rather have a good conversation with a couple people but really get to know them and stay in touch with them after the event, than talk to fifty people but never really get to know any of them, much less remember all their names at the end of the night!
Hope these thoughts were a bit of help. Happy networking!
Networking is a great skill to practice. As a kid I was very shy, and growing up I have had to actively work at being outgoing and meeting people. Putting yourself in new situations is a great way to grow, learn new skills, and possibly conquer some fears! Writers, for example, can no longer afford to hide away and simply write -- we also need to be actively spreading the word about ourselves and our work. Building up your networking confidence helps in virtually any profession -- not to mention social situations that aren't job-related, like cocktail parties, birthday parties, conferences, or just meeting new friends! I met some wonderful people last night and had a fabulous time.
Here are some tips that helped me at the event:
1. Bring along your business cards and make sure they are easily accessible. When you meet someone, they will likely ask for your card as a way of getting in contact with you after the event. If you are carrying them in your purse or pocket, it is a good idea to get a business card holder so you can easily find them. Or just slip a few into your wallet. On the flip side, don't be afraid to ask for someone else's business card -- it's a compliment to them and they will be happy to give you one! The day after the event, it can also be nice to send a brief e-mail to everyone you met saying you hope to keep in touch.
2. Grab a drink. At the event I attended last night, they served alcohol, but I don't really drink. Instead, I got a Diet Coke, and it was nice to have something to hold as I mingled around the room. (I sometimes feel awkward and don't know what to do with my hands!) I learned to carry my drink in my left hand, though, because when shaking hands it can be clumsy to switch your drink to the other hand -- not to mention your handshake will likely be cold and damp due to the condensation on your drinking glass!
3. Quality vs. Quantity. Some people at networking events buzz around the room, meeting as many people as possible for brief, two or three minute conversations. Others talk to only a couple people the entire evening. I think a happy medium is best, but also consider what you hope to get out of the event. What are your networking goals? What are the reasons you chose to attend the event? Personally, I would much rather have a good conversation with a couple people but really get to know them and stay in touch with them after the event, than talk to fifty people but never really get to know any of them, much less remember all their names at the end of the night!
Hope these thoughts were a bit of help. Happy networking!
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