An Impractical Solution for an Impractical Era
Given that we’re already well into the second decade of the twenty-first century, I’m willing to bet that your writing machine is also an e-mail machine, a blog machine, a magazine and newspaper machine, a Facebook machine, a Twitter machine, and in some cases a pinball machine.
Yes, You Can Trust Him
Stephen King is one of those writers self-proclaimed literary authors avoid reading. He must be doing something right, however, because as of this moment, King has written 49 novels and sold more than 350 million copies.
A Furious Blaze of Liquid-Life Energy
One of the questions that torments me as a writer—and trust me, there are many—is the question of free will. Do I believe that individuals have the freedom to choose their own destiny?
Literary News for the Literarily Inclined
In books: National Short Story Month; three writers battle over MFA programs; judge resigns as Philip Roth wins prize; the novel still alive and well; Charles Simic on libraries; ten disturbing novels; literary tattoos; and a ban on the word "verdant."
Query Letters That DON’T Work, Not Even a Little Bit
Having personally harassed over a thousand literary agents in the greater Tri-State area, I thought I’d share a few samples of flawed query letters so that you may learn from my mistakes.
How to Offend Your Family
What’s the point of being a writer if not to let your resentments build over a lifetime so that you may one day slay your family members through the refracted mirror of art?
Defining Narrative Arc
Normally, in workshop, I am quick to share definitions and advice... But on this question—“What is narrative arc?” I found myself unusually hesitant.
Andrew MacDonald – Wise Rockstar at 24
Fiction champion Andrew MacDonald discusses the writing and revision process as well as his experience with publishing in the small press.
It’s Horrible, Stupid, and I Hate it: Coping With Criticism